Summarize the CO2 emissions by each country using the table. Be as detailed as possible. From 1980 to 2021, calculate the average rate of change of total emissions and per capita emissions for each country. Summarize your results in a few sentences. Use Riemann sums to calculate the total emissions and per capita emissions from 1980 to 2021. Did you use left, right, or midpoint boxes?  Which country is more responsible for current atmospheric CO2 levels? Summarize your results in a few sentences.

China and U.S. CO2 Emissions

Produced by Thomas J. Pfaff

sustainabilitymath.org

Updated March 2023

Overview: Greenhouse cases, in particular CO2, are the drivers of climate change. In order to limit future warming we must reduce global CO2 emissions. The two largest emitters of CO2 are the U.S. and China. Assuming both countries are willing to reduce CO2 emissions, the goal of this exercise is to propose a fair agreement for China and the U.S. to reduce CO2 emissions. The project starts by analyzing historic emissions of the two countries.

Notes to Instructors (delete this before handing to students): The data is available in an excel spreadsheet. The calculations involving summing columns is much easier with the spreadsheet but not necessary.  There is also a csv file that can be imported directly into R. The use of Riemann sums is very basic, but the example does provide a meaningful example of area under a curve. There is no real correct answer to the final questions.

• Summarize the CO2 emissions by each country using the table. Be as detailed as possible.
• From 1980 to 2021, calculate the average rate of change of total emissions and per capita emissions for each country. Summarize your results in a few sentences.
• Use Riemann sums to calculate the total emissions and per capita emissions from 1980 to 2021. Did you use left, right, or midpoint boxes?  Which country is more responsible for current atmospheric CO2 levels? Summarize your results in a few sentences.
• Provide a short proposal on a fair plan for both countries to reduce emissions. Your proposal must include arguments for why it is fair to both countries and must address historic emissions, current and short-term future projections, per capita emissions, and recognize the current correlations between CO2 emissions and standard of living.