Air Quote by Jay Inslee
![“We [USA and China] have a common responsibility with different numerical targets, and that's the situation ultimately we are going to have with China. We emit six times more per person than they do. It's hard to tell them to cut theirs in half right now until we start moving. Being the ostrich…” quote by Jay Inslee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f72/jay-inslee-8528_air_we-usa-and-china-have-a-common-responsib_998646.jpg)
“We [USA and China] have a common responsibility with different numerical targets, and that's the situation ultimately we are going to have with China. We emit six times more per person than they do. It's hard to tell them to cut theirs in half right now until we start moving. Being the ostrich with your head in the sand and tail feathers in the air like some would have us to do while China continues to pollute is simply not an option.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Climate Action Summit, 2021, United Nations
The US must lead climate action despite higher per‑capita emissions, while cooperating with China to reduce global emissions
In simple terms: US must act on climate even though we emit more per person than China
Key Takeaway
Take decisive climate action now
Themes
climate responsibility
international cooperation
emissions disparity
policy urgency
Mood
urgent
determined
Type
policy
strategic
When to use this quote
- setting emissions targets
- investing in renewables
- engaging diplomatic talks
- public advocacy
- business commitments
Key Concepts
Carbon reduction
global equity
technological innovation
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies can align US and China climate goals?
- How to balance economic growth with emission reductions?
A Different Perspective
Political and economic challenges may hinder rapid emission cuts
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
![“[A]s you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow. Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow.” quote by Dr. Seuss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da8/dr-seuss-1224_advice_a-s-you-partake-of-the-world-s-bill-of-f_6806.jpg)