The deferred aspect of Net Zero

It is difficult to deal effectively with deferred aversive consequences because they do not occur at a time when escape or attack is feasible—when, for example, the controller can be identified or is within reach.

B.F. Skinner - Beyond Freedom and Dignity (1971)


The widespread negative consequences of the UK government drive towards Net Zero are certainly deferred in Skinner’s sense. They are not sufficiently aversive at a time when it is still possible to reject the policy by voting against political parties promoting it.

Currently, negative consequences of Net Zero are only aversive to those who pay attention to what is being done. The negative consequences are not likely to be aversive to financially secure decision-makers. Not until the negative consequences become entirely obvious and the controller can be identified or is within reach.