ABSTRACT
The policy perspective seems to be broadening to match the ecological reality. Integration of physical and social science is making clear that a comprehensive approach to the complex global system is essential, addressing all the relevant trace gases and their sources and sinks. Moving from the inputs to the effects of global change, it is clear that the trace gases have environmental attributes—both beneficial and adverse—in addition their potential for radiative forcing. A comprehensive approach is essential to shaping future inquiry into the scientific understanding of global change. The virtues of market-based economic incentives for environmental protection are increasingly well-recognized. Market-based mechanisms use that variation to social advantage by imposing some restraint on total emissions but then letting the market allocate the burden of mitigative measures to those who can most easily shoulder it. Market-based incentives could also be used to encourage efficient adaptation practices.
