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Issue · mostly Technology

Climate change

How far should governments go on climate?

Almost every government accepts that the climate is changing. The argument is about how fast to act, who bears the cost, and what tools to use. One side wants strict rules on business, binding international agreements and, if needed, lower consumption, even if growth slows. The other side prefers to rely on innovation, markets and gradual change, arguing that new technology will cut emissions more cheaply than limits that could hurt jobs and living standards.

On the 12 Axes this issue spreads across three axes. Strict regulation of business points toward the Planned pole on markets. Insisting on binding agreements between countries points toward the Cooperation pole on foreign affairs. Willingness to accept a lower standard of living points toward the Caution pole on technology, while faith in technology to solve problems points toward Embrace. The issue cuts across left and right in interesting ways. Some conservatives value conservation and favor nuclear power or carbon pricing, and some on the left are wary of nuclear energy or of global deals. Many people who agree on the goal still disagree sharply on the means.

The two sides

What each side argues

Strong action

  • Supporters argue that strict rules on emissions are justified even if they slow growth, since the long-term costs of inaction are greater.
  • Supporters say climate change crosses borders, so only binding international agreements can work.
  • Supporters believe some lifestyle change may be needed, and it is fairer to start now than to force it later.

Technology and growth

  • Opponents argue that heavy regulation can raise costs and cost jobs, with ordinary households paying the price.
  • Opponents say new technology such as clean energy and storage will cut emissions without asking people to live differently.
  • Opponents worry that binding agreements can limit national choice, and that other countries may not keep their promises.
In the test

4 statements on climate change

  • The government should strictly regulate businesses to reduce climate change, even if it slows economic growth.Agreeing moves you toward Planned
  • Climate change can only be solved through binding agreements between countries.Agreeing moves you toward Cooperation
  • People should accept a lower standard of living if that is needed to protect the environment.Agreeing moves you toward Caution
  • New technology will solve most environmental problems without people needing to change how they live.Agreeing moves you toward Embrace
Answer them in the test
On the record

What politicians have said and done

At each end of Technology

People whose overall profile leans furthest each way on the axis this issue moves most. A lean on the axis is not a stance on this exact issue.

Embrace
Caution

More technology issues

Climate change: questions

What is a carbon tax?

A carbon tax puts a price on each unit of carbon dioxide released, so that polluters pay for the damage. The aim is to push firms and households toward cleaner options. Supporters say it is efficient. Critics say it raises living costs and falls hardest on lower-income people unless offset.

Do we need international agreements on climate change?

Supporters say yes, because emissions anywhere affect the whole planet, and countries are reluctant to act alone. Critics say binding deals are hard to enforce and can limit national choices. Many people favor a mix of agreements and domestic action.

Is climate action left or right wing?

Strong climate action is usually associated with the left, and caution about costs with the right. But the divide is not total. Some conservatives support carbon pricing or nuclear power, and some on the left oppose particular technologies. On the 12 Axes the issue moves markets, foreign and technology.