Use of English - Multiple Choice

Climate Policy Effects

Debate about climate policy often focuses on targets and deadlines, but the real test lies in its long-term effects. Governments may announce ambitious plans, yet these only matter if they are (0) BACKED by practical measures and public support. Critics often argue that stricter environmental rules place too great a burden (1) .......... industry, while supporters insist that the cost of inaction is far greater. In practice, the effects of climate policies tend to vary according to how carefully they are (2) .......... out. A poorly designed tax may discourage investment, whereas a balanced policy can stimulate innovation and speed (3) .......... the transition to cleaner energy. Much also depends on whether governments help workers and communities adapt, rather than simply leaving them to (4) .......... with the consequences. In countries where policy is consistent, businesses are more likely to invest with confidence and consumers are more willing to change long-established (5) .......... . Even so, some measures initially meet with resistance, especially if people feel they are being unfairly singled (6) .......... . For this reason, successful climate policy usually rests not only on scientific evidence, but also on a sense of social fairness. Without that, even well-intentioned reforms may fail to win public (7) .......... or bring (8) .......... the lasting change they were meant to achieve.