‘Sacrificing us at the altar of their greed’: Richest 10% in EU emit more carbon than poorest 50%

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  1. Carbon Disparities Unveiled:

    • Oxfam’s latest report exposes a stark reality – the richest 10% in the European Union are responsible for emitting as much carbon pollution as the poorest 50%. The report sheds light on the outsized carbon footprint associated with the luxurious lifestyles of the wealthiest individuals.

  2. Impact on Climate and Health:

    • The report estimates that the excessive carbon emissions from Europe’s richest 10% will contribute to 67,800 heat-related excess deaths by the year 2100. This grim projection emphasizes the tangible and severe consequences of the carbon disparity, with potential health crises looming.

  3. Call for European Wealth Tax:

    • Oxfam is advocating for the implementation of a European wealth tax to generate nearly €250 billion annually. The proposed tax aims to address both pollution and inequality, providing a financial mechanism to support climate initiatives and reduce the wealth gap.

  4. European Green Deal Ambitions:

    • While the European Union has set ambitious climate targets through the European Green Deal, concerns persist regarding the financing required for effective implementation. Oxfam contends that a wealth tax could play a crucial role in funding climate initiatives and ensuring a just transition.

  5. Global Inequalities and Climate Crisis:

    • The report highlights global inequalities contributing to the climate crisis. The richest 1% of the world’s population, comprising billionaires, millionaires, and those with incomes above $140,000, produced as much carbon pollution in 2019 as the poorest two-thirds of humanity, totaling five billion people.

  6. Greta Thunberg’s Foreword:

    • Climate activist Greta Thunberg, in a foreword to the report, condemns the richest 1% for their role in the climate crisis, describing them as sacrificing the planet for their greed. She questions the decision to entrust those most responsible for the crisis with leadership roles in addressing it.

  7. Oxfam’s Call for Global Redistribution:

    • Oxfam urges governments to address global inequality through a comprehensive redistribution of income, including the implementation of a wealth tax. The proposed measures aim to facilitate a just transition away from fossil fuels and prioritize the well-being of both humans and the planet.

As Oxfam highlights the carbon emissions disparity between the wealthiest and the poorest, the call for a European wealth tax emerges as a proposed solution to combat climate change and bridge economic inequalities. The report underscores the urgency of reevaluating priorities and taking decisive actions to ensure a sustainable and equitable future.

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