Rationing emissions We have laws prohibiting smoking in public spaces because we know secondhand smoke is not healthful. We know the accumulation of greenhouse gas emissions is already causing great harm to humans and the natural world and yet we give free rein to wealthy individuals and nations to emit into the public atmosphere where it persists for centuries. Without sacrifice, all the other efforts to reverse the climate crisis are futile. Without restraint, rationing, there can no honor or justice for the poorest nations or individuals.