Another issue with which to wrestle is fatalism. Several people here seem to be arguing for a fatalistic approach.

This is very counterproductive to personal and social welfare, IMO. Better to light a single candle than curse the darkness, etc.

In the last 4 decades the rise in environmental awareness has led to some very positive developments in the limitations of certain kinds of pollution and harmful activities.

Thanks to the work of the “green revolution”, that is, the adaptation of advanced technology to agriculture, the world has kept the starvation of billions at bay, though hundreds of millions still go hungry.

To dismiss the idea of success in undertaking large projects is not warranted, IMO.

Moving energy production to non-fossil fuels is possible, though a big challenge. It can be done. Whether we will or not is up to our courage.