Why is the US largely responsible for global warming?

Answer 1

Countries that burn a lot of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) are responsible for most of the world's global warming. The US has been the top emitter of greenhouse gases for many years. It was recently overtaken by China in annual records.

Answer 2

It's not. In fact, the US has more controls on carbon issues than most developed countries.

A:Yes, unfortunately, the US is the country most responsible for the present global warming. Here are the facts:

• Carbon dioxide put into the atmosphere stays there, capturing heat, for years and years, some for more than 100 years, some for more than 1000 years.
• Between 1751 and 2010 the cumulative contribution of the US to carbon emissions was 26.8%.
• The next biggest contributor was China at 9.8%.
• After that was Russia with 7.3%.
• Much of all this carbon dioxide is still there.
• China recently overtook the US in annual emissions, but the US' contribution over many years makes it the most responsible for global warming.

This is why many countries have been hoping the the US will take the lead in combatting global warming.

Read more at the link below (ABC News)