There are consequences, and, given his charitable work, Gates should know that the consequences often fall hardest on those in poverty. However, we’ve got some growing up to do if we expect to get what we want, whenever we want it. At certain times it’s probably necessary to ship food around to ensure good nutrition for everyone, and I am not suggesting I think there’s anything wrong with an exotic treat. This should be a ridiculous statement, but many people in rich countries have been made to think it’s is normal. Well, if Gates can’t go any part of the year without grapes, then I guess we must provide them at any cost. But I can do that only because of container ships that bring fruit from South America.”. Even though none of his tech solutions provide a silver bullet either.īut Gates knows what’s important to his happiness: “I like grapes and enjoy eating them year-round. Reducing consumption is mainly dismissed in this book: “We cannot get to zero emissions simply - or even mostly - by flying or driving less.”, Gates says and moves on. In this book, he not only says we must allow increased consumption for those in poverty but justifies high consumption for everyone, even himself.

He represents a prime example of the kind of activity that capitalism encourages.

Does Gates really think increasing consumption will help?Ĭapitalism celebrates consumption, and so does Gates. As well as criticism, I highlight the approaches that Gates has ignored but which must be included in any plan as they compliment his tech-focused approach. In this article, I give my input to that. We must discuss, critique, and debate any plan that is largely cooked up in the mind of an individual.

How to avoid a climate