Another aspect of the global climate change discussion which creates confusion is the lack of a single, clearly communicated position regarding WHO must accomplish WHAT by WHEN, WHERE, WHY and HOW. In essence, the fundamental elements of the story have not been resolved and reported.

It is almost impossible to believe that this issue has been the focus of decades of research and hundreds of millions of dollars of expenditures without definitively addressing these issues. It is equally difficult to believe that the expenditure of trillions of dollars is being seriously contemplated in the absence of a single, clearly communicated position on these issues.

Specific questions which lack unique, specific answers include:

What is the "ideal" global average surface temperature?

What is the "ideal" atmospheric CO2 concentration?

What reduction in current global annual CO2 emissions would be required to stabilize atmospheric CO2 concentrations?

Over what time period must that reduction in global CO2 emissions occur?

Is there an atmospheric CO2 concentration which cannot safely be exceeded; and, if so, what is that concentration?

Which technologies are capable of being implemented within the required timeframe to avoid exceeding that atmospheric CO2 concentration?

What reductions would be required in other GHGs, such as methane; and, how would those reductions be accomplished?

Must global population growth and/or global population be reduced to achieve what must be accomplished; and, if so, how? 

 

Fuzzy "wishes" to keep the increase in global average surface temperature from exceeding 2oC do not inspire confidence or provide purpose and direction.  Neither do finger pointing and demands for massive funding to deal with potential adverse impacts. Promised reductions in the rate of increase in emissions do not reduce emissions in absolute terms. Loud, uncoordinated repetition of unrealistic deadlines accompanied by frenzied arm waving won't do so either.

The massive effort required to manage anthropogenic global climate change, if it indeed can and must be managed, might be put forth based on knowledge. It is not likely to be put forth based on faith.