Global warming that is reasonably projected might be problematic, although not devastating, for the much-fretted-about polar bears, but it will be beneficial for other species, says columnist George F. Global warming was blamed for 35,000 deaths in Europe’s August 2003 heat wave. So, if substantially cutting carbon dioxide reverses warming, that will mean a large net loss of life globally, says Will. Increasing prosperity and low-tech methods like mosquito nets, not controlling climate change, is the key to preventing 85 million malaria deaths by 2100. Warming will help agriculture in some regions and hurt it in others, but even a net negative effect will be less injurious than current agriculture policies are, says Will. Rich countries subsidizing their agriculture limit the ability of poor countries to prosper — and become healthier — by selling their products in rich countries’ markets. read more

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