Worldwide energy consumption varies dramatically, but the impacts are shared by all. The most commonly used fuel sources for energy around the world are fossil fuels: coal, oil, and natural gas. Combustion of fossil fuels releases pollutants to the atmosphere, where the emissions from all countries combine to cause local, regional, and global issues. One of the primary pollutants of concern is carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. Carbon dioxide emissions are responsible for climate change and governments around the world have taken steps to control pollution, but not all countries are successful in reducing carbon emissions.

While all countries produce pollution and emit greenhouse gasses, the emissions are greatly unequal across the globe. Consider what kinds of factors would determine how much energy is used by a country, a region, a household, or an individual. What factors would influence the fuel choices made by these people and institutions?

Conduct research to determine the common fuel sources, emissions, and total energy consumption by the United States and a developing country of your choice, such as China, India, or Brazil.

CIA. (2015). The world factbook. Retrieved fromhttps://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/

U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2015). International energy statistics. Retrieved fromhttp://www.eia.gov/cfapps/ipdbproject/IEDIndex3.cfm?tid=44&pid=44&aid=2

·                   What are the primary sources of emissions? What is the industrial or agricultural profile of the country?

·                   What are the similarities and differences in the fuel sources, emissions, and consumption between the two countries?

·                   What are the countries’ levels of involvement in worldwide emissions regulations?

·                   Discuss solutions or regulations to energy use in high-demand countries. How can high-use and low-use countries work together to reduce overall emissions?

·                   In working together to make these reductions, how would you address possible cultural differences and diversity concepts that will emerge because of this partnership? Describe how low and high-use countries can bridge cultural differences through strategic partnerships.