The $20 note that doesn't exist

Some people reject new systems and technology saying, "If it worked it would already have been done".

This is like the economist who says that the twenty dollar note lying on the pavement doesn't exist, because if it were there, someone would already have helped themselves.

We are in the midst of a massive decarbonisation of world economies that is bringing rapid and dramatic changes to technology and systems. Things that weren't feasible 10 years ago are not only possible now, they are highly desirable. Look at how affordable solar PV has become.

Note: 'Today' = 2009. Source Emmanuel Sachs (MIT)

To see a $20 note on the ground, we only need to open our eyes. To decarbonise the economy we have to look for opportunities, not obstacles.


Thanks to Jonathon Maddox for this metaphor.