The Climate and Health Council insists that the reduction in fossil fuel emissions necessary to resolve climate change must be linked to a transfer of resources to those who will be worst affected, and have had least responsibility for the problem.

Thus a fair shares resolution of climate change must have three ingredients,

1. a scientifically calculated cap on carbon emissions consistent with keeping CO2 levels below 450 ppm, and returning them to below 350 ppm as quickly  as possible.
2. An equal entitlement of this residual carbon to each adult across the globe, so that those who presently emit little carbon can cash their unused entitlements in for those who still emit too much to buy. This would effect a massive transfer of resources  to the poor.
3. Creating a framed market which would incentivise everyone to pursue low carbon lives( the profligate emitters because they will have to pay for additional entitlements, the frugal emitters because they will wish to sell as many unused entitlements as possible.

The global framework known as Contraction and Convergence is the most feasible present option which will fulfill these objectives.

One frequently raised objection is that those who cash in their entitlements will squander they money.  

A recent published book ‘Just give money to the poor’ by Joseph Hanlon, Armando Barrientos and David Hulme  refutes this objection. There are many examples of this policy across the developing world, and the recipients spend the money prudently, usually first on the education of their children.  As education, particularly female education is known to be crucial for all aspects of healthy, sustainable  development, including population stabilisation, this evidence is heartening.

Having confidence in each aspect of the policies we recommend helps us advocate with greater assurance, and will enable us to exert maximal pressure on the negotiators to get the health promoting global framework in place. Just give money to the poor  makes the case eloquently. Read it and tell us what you think.

Robin Stott