Opinion: Coming Soon: Individual Carbon Credits?

| Sourced From Spectator.org |

You’d better not have a big carbon print in Great Britain. If some of the enviros get their way, you will have to pay more every time you exceed your government carbon allotment.

Reports the Daily Telegraph:

Lord Smith of Finsbury believes that implementing individual carbon allowances for every person will be the most effective way of meeting the targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

It would involve people being issued with a unique number which they would hand over when purchasing products that contribute to their carbon footprint, such as fuel, airline tickets and electricity.

Like with a bank account, a statement would be sent out each month to help people keep track of what they are using.

If their “carbon account” hits zero, they would have to pay to get more credits.

Those who are frugal with their carbon usage will be able to sell their unused credits and make a profit.

Lord Smith will call for the scheme to be part of a “Green New Deal” to be introduced within 20 years when he addresses the agency’s annual conference on Monday.

An Environment Agency spokesman said only those with “extravagant lifestyles” would be affected by the carbon allowances.

He said: “A lot of people who cycle will get money back. It will probably only be bankers and those with extravagant lifestyles who would lose out.”

Right. Only bankers and the rich will be affected. And the check is in the mail.

Maybe this will be the Obama administration’s next big idea. If Washington can force you to buy government-approved insurance, then why not force you to conform your life to government-provided carbon allowances? And after cap & trade for business can cap & trade for individuals be long in coming?

By Doug Bandow

Posted on November 16, 2009 · in UK

Tagged as: carbon allowances • Carbon Credit • U. K. Carbon