Inter-generational and Spatial Equity Issues of Carbon Accounts

The authors analyze the different regional and generational contributions to increases of CO2 concentrations resulting from fossil-fuel use since the onset of the industrial revolution. Equitable future per capita emission allowances under a range of concentration stabilization scenarios (additional 140, 280, and 420ppm over pre-industrial levels) by the year 2100 are outlined. The intra- and inter-generational equity criterion adopted considers that each human being is allowed an equal emission right per year, independent of time or place lived. A distinguishing characteristic of the analysis is the integration of emissions and population over time. Quantifications of historical contributions to concentration increases and future emission scenarios on a per capita basis are broken down into nine world regions.