A great summary of excuses, thanks.

I'd just add to it the following observation: most people I know are fully aware of what's happening - but they are simply determined to look the other way. Period.

Not only are they not willing to take political action, they won't do anything significant by way of lifestyle change, e.g stop flying or limit driving. It's Somebody Else's Problem.

The only approach I know that might dent that wilful blindness is to point out that their kids' future is seriously threatened, and that they will have to answer to those kids a couple of decades hence.