By Editor Morten B. Reitoft

Friends and followers - and in this case - in particular Americans. I was listening to some of your presidential candidate debates as I am currently in the US. I know how sensitive many are about politics, so I won't comment on anything political in this context. I would, however, like to talk about something important: the climate. There are many opinions about climate change and sustainability. Though the IPCC is entirely aligned on the impact of humans on the environment, some still don't believe in the cause and effect. Others, like Bjorn Lomborg from Copenhagen Consensus, acknowledge the human influence on climate but generally speak about priorities. What is more important? How much does it cost to decrease carbon emissions vs. the potential impact? Can the money be used better? Will technology save us, regardless? And so forth.

All of the above are OK to discuss. If we believe in Democracy, we must also use free and open speech to discuss, and science should give us the background to discuss political actions in an enlightened manner. As the climate debate sometimes becomes emotional rather than based on fact, politicians often use the debates to position themselves in directions biased toward their voters. That's not new and something all politicians do all the time.

If an economy depends on fossil fuels, what will happen when we run out of fossil fuel resources? The Age of Coal lasted from about 360 to 299 million years ago. Most of these resources are now used, so what? Most scientists and even energy companies recognize that coal, gas, and oil are limited resources, and I have seen various indications that most of them will be used in less than 100 years from now.

The political question is, therefore, NOT whether we should base our future wealth on fossil fuel, but what comes next - and that's where I need you to think. Suppose you are conservative and believe in the Republican candidates. What happens to your business when your customers require sustainable products in the future?

"According to the International Energy Agency, at current production rates, oil will run out in 53 years, natural gas in 54 years, and coal in 110 years. If we continue to burn fossil fuels at our current rate, it is estimated that all our fossil fuels will be depleted by 2060."

And last quote for today: "Demand for sustainable products is growing, with 95% of consumers trying to live sustainably. 78% of consumers believe sustainability is important. 66% of consumers consider sustainability when making a purchase. 39% of consumers are likely to choose a retailer with a variety of sustainable options. 75% of sustainable products sell better online than in-store.

Consumers' primary reason for purchasing sustainable products is to help the environment. 30% of consumers want to improve the environment. 23% want to reduce production waste, 22% want to reduce their carbon footprint, and 17% are concerned with animal welfare.

Consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. 66% of Americans said they would pay more for sustainable products in 2022. 55% of consumers would be willing to pay a little more, and 11% would be willing to pay a lot more."