Weakening an Argument on Carbon Emissions

Hard Critical Reasoning Evaluating Arguments

A panel of environmental scientists recently published a report claiming that reducing carbon emissions must be prioritized in order to effectively combat climate change.

In response, some policymakers argue that focusing on reducing emissions from industrial sources is insufficient without also addressing emissions from individual consumers, such as those from personal vehicles.

They contend that consumer behavior is a significant contributor to overall emissions and must also be managed to achieve meaningful climate goals.

Which of the following, if true, would most seriously weaken the policymakers' argument?

Most industrial carbon emissions are typically much higher than those produced by consumers.

Policies targeting individual consumer behavior have been shown to reduce emissions effectively.

Many countries have successfully reduced emissions by implementing industrial regulation only.

Most consumers are unaware of how their emissions contribute to climate change.

Hint

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