Title: Energy and the protection of the atmosphere

Authors: Nebojsa Nakicenovic, Arnulf Grubler

Addresses: Environmentally Compatible Energy Strategies Project, International, Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria. Environmentally Compatible Energy Strategies Project, International, Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria

Abstract: The essay reviews major environmental problems of energy development within a broader development and sustainability context. The role of energy in human development and major historical trends as well as their implications for carbon dioxide emissions are discussed. After summarising the scientific understanding of current and possible future climate change, the paper reviews available mitigation and adaptation options including energy efficiency improvements, fuels switching, zero-carbon energy options, emission abatement and disposal at large point sources, enhancement of natural sinks, and adaptation measures. Specific circumstances of developing versus industrialised countries are outlined. The essay concludes with a review of policy instruments that could reconcile protection of the atmosphere with human development and sustainability objectives.

Keywords: energy; carbon dioxide; climate change; historical trends; mitigation options; policy instruments.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGEI.2000.000865

International Journal of Global Energy Issues, 2000 Vol.13 No.1/2/3, pp.4-57

Published online: 24 Jul 2003 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article