STWR - Share The World's Resources

As UN climate change talks close in Bonn, two reports spell out what is at stake. The impact of climate change is hitting hardest on the world’s poorest people, yet rich countries are responsible for three quarters of green house gas emissions - a situation that, if left unchecked, could lead to the greatest human migration in history.

Energy companies are pursuing a carbon 'techno-fix' in the name of a Green New Deal. Rather than palliative measures, we should remove subsidies for polluting industries, invest in genuinely renewable power solutions and return the energy sector to public control, argues Oscar Reyes.

As negotiations on a global climate change treaty continue, a key issue of contention is the difference in consumption levels between rich and poor countries. The resulting proposals could be crucial in defining not only the successor to the Kyoto Protocol, but the future sustainability of the environment.

Carbon markets are failing to protect the environment by allowing rich countries to "buy their way out" of emissions cuts. If carbon trading continues, the amount of credits available must reflect scientific evidence rather than political and economic expediency, writes Rachel Godfrey Wood.

Climate change is already claiming 300,000 lives and costing the global economy $125bn every year. International cooperation is crucial to tackling the catastrophe - especially since the countries most at risk are the least responsible for the crisis. A report by the Global Humanitarian Forum.

Many high-profile environmentalists limit their agendas to solutions within current social and economic parameters. Yet systemic changes to the global economy are required if meaningful solutions to biodiversity loss and environmental exploitation are to be reached, argues Michael Barker.

The relentless pursuit of economic growth promotes the unsustainable consumption patterns that underpin the climate crisis. Only a clearer understanding of the causes and greater public engagement can finally urge governments to act on climate change, argues Rajesh Makwana.