Who Will Protect The Planet?

        I believe that we, as in everyone currently alive, have a duty to protect the planet for both our generation and future ones. Furthermore, collectives who have caused climate damage, whether businesses or countries, have an even greater responsibility to fight climate change. Although Simon Caney illustrates many of the logical issues with attributing blame to collectives, these groups that have caused the most damage should take the largest share of work towards reversing climate change.

        For those who have not personally had a negative effect on the climate, there are still reasons to help protect the planet. Mainly, they can benefit from cleaner air, reduced global warming, and more predictable weather. Although some may argue that it is not their individual responsibility, the analogy of a child face down in a puddle is a great counterpoint. Even though one did not push the child, there are societal norms and goals that cause people to help the child back up. In much the same way, everyone should play a role in keeping the Earth healthy.

        For those who have negatively impacted the Earth's climate, extra responsibility should be place on them. Corporations and nations should be treated as a continuous person, in that they have the responsibility for the actions that their past members have made. This is especially true if these companies have profited extensively, or knowingly committed crimes against the planet. Although specific repercussions are difficult to establish, there seems to be an obvious idea that those who cause the most harm should pay the highest price. For instance, a company who pollutes a river should be obligated to pay for the restoration of that same river. Letting companies escape the penalties of their crimes will only incentivize future companies to do the same for easier profits.