Skip to content

Accepted Quote by James Hansen

“The danger is that the compromises and special interests inherent in Kyoto-style targets and cap-and-trade will be accepted because of bureaucratic momentum.” quote by James Hansen
Download Open image
“The danger is that the compromises and special interests inherent in Kyoto-style targets and cap-and-trade will be accepted because of bureaucratic momentum.”

James Hansen

About This Quote

Source Speech: Climate Change Testimony, US Senate, 2007

Kyoto mechanisms risk becoming entrenched due to bureaucracy, allowing special interests to shape policy.

In simple terms: Bureaucracy may lock in flawed climate policies.

Key Takeaway

Guard against complacency in policy design.

Themes

environment policy bureaucracy special interests climate change

Mood

cautious critical

Type

policy analytical

When to use this quote

  • environmental legislation
  • international negotiations
  • regulatory reform

Key Concepts

cap-and-trade Kyoto Protocol policy inertia

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure flexibility in climate agreements?
  • What safeguards prevent capture by special interests?
A Different Perspective

Bureaucratic inertia can stall necessary reforms.

3.4 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by James Hansen

Explore all 94 James Hansen quotes

More Accepted quotes

Browse all 2,128 Accepted quotes