3.7

• Why are China and the USA key players in global resource consumption?

  They lead in demand for key commodities, with China especially consuming huge amounts for construction (e.g. steel).
• How did China’s growth affect global commodity prices between 2008–2010?

  China’s peak growth led to global price surges—copper prices doubled due to its high demand
• What is driving increased global resource consumption?

  A growing global middle class—500 million more people between 2000–2014—means more disposable income and higher consumption.
• What is the relationship between middle class growth and economic growth?

  Every 10% increase in the middle class is estimated to boost annual economic growth by 0.5%.
• Why is water demand a major issue in China?

  Farming and coal industries consume a lot of water, especially in North China where water is scarce (only 200 tonnes per capita).
• What’s happening with water use in Beijing?

  In 2021, total water consumption in Beijing exceeded supply by 70%, driven by rising living standards (e.g. more showers, flush toilets).
• Where are the highest CO₂ concentrations found globally?

  North America, Europe, India, and China—areas with high population and industrial activity.
• How much did global CO₂ emissions increase from 1990–2013?

  By 53% globally. China's emissions alone rose by 286%, five times the global rate
• Why must China be part of global CO₂ reduction efforts?

  Its massive emissions mean global goals won’t be met without its involvement. Despite agreeing to targets in 2016, China opened 48 new coal mines in 2024.
• How did Russia approach the 2015 Paris Agreement?

  Russia agreed to cut emissions to 1990 levels—but this could allow increases since emissions were much higher before the USSR’s collapse.
• Q: What was the US stance on climate action under Trump?

  Trump withdrew the US from the Paris Agreement again and cut the EPA’s budget by 31%, limiting its focus to clean air and water.
• How has the EU performed in cutting emissions by 2023?

  The EU’s net emissions were 37% below 1990 levels; its share of global emissions dropped from 15% (1990) to 6% (2023).