It's basic human nature and economics that the rich, their bought-and-paid-for politicians and anyone making money off of the current state of affairs, will defend the status quo and try to protect their investments. That is the only reason that the Republicans and the one percenters care in any way about the environment, because they don't want their applecart upset.  Change the equation and let them be losing money because of global warming and they will soon be on the other side of the debate, screaming for a halt to the effects of the human race. The simplest path to understanding any problem today is "Follow the money!"