Howard, there is no question that we need to take better care of the planet.
The question that arises is how we should go about it. In countries like England, which is responsible for global CO2 emissions of 1% (Germany 1.8%), how can we explain to people that they should give up their mobility? The last thing people accept is regression. Acceptance is only achieved by the masses when the costs are the same or lower. This is my experience when I talk to people from different income groups. Of course, nobody has to agree with me.