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.”
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.
Guard against complacency in policy design.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- environmental legislation
- international negotiations
- regulatory reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure flexibility in climate agreements?
- What safeguards prevent capture by special interests?
Bureaucratic inertia can stall necessary reforms.