The science of climate change is easy. We burn millions of
tons of fossil fuels(矿物燃料) a year, sending millions of carbon dioxide into the
atmosphere. The gas acts like the windows of a greenhouse, retaining heat that
would otherwise radiate(散发)away. Result: The world is warmer—half a degree or so
in the past 100 years. Think it doesn’t matter Your
grandchildren will disagree. In the near term, this warning contributes to
accidental weather. More storms here; more drought (干旱) there. Over time, the
disastrous consequences may include melted ice caps and higher sea levels. No
more icebergs, No more Miami. With 4 96 of the world population,
the United States produces 22 % of all greenhouse gas. Clearly, we bear some
responsibility. Which is why, combined with the threat to future Americans, the
White House this week outlined a new plan to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions(排放). The plan is painfully modest. It delays hard
limits for 10 years, hoping that tax incentives(激励措施)and pollution credits will
spur(刺激)industries to act on their own. And the final goal--reduction to 1990
levels by about 2010—is lower than much desire. Why did the U.S. government plan to control the greenhouse gas emission
Because it __________ for the emissions of greenhouse gas.