Meaning: Bjorn Lomborg, a Danish author and academic, is known for his controversial views on climate change and environmental policy. The quote you provided emphasizes the importance of thinking about global warming on a longer time scale and highlights the current level of investment in renewable energy research in the United States. Lomborg is suggesting that a 50-year scale is more natural for considering the impact of global warming, as opposed to shorter-term perspectives. He also draws attention to the relatively modest annual investment in renewable energy research, implying that it may not be sufficient to address the long-term challenges of climate change.

Lomborg's emphasis on the 50-year time scale reflects the idea that climate change is a long-term, global issue that requires sustained attention and action over decades. This contrasts with shorter time frames that may focus on immediate economic or political concerns. By urging people to think in terms of a 50-year scale, Lomborg is encouraging a more strategic and forward-thinking approach to addressing the complex and far-reaching effects of global warming.

The mention of the United States' annual expenditure of 200 million dollars on renewable energy research serves as a specific example to highlight the current level of investment in addressing climate change. This figure may be seen as relatively low given the scale of the challenge and the potential impact of climate change on the planet. Lomborg's intention seems to be to underscore the need for greater investment and more comprehensive strategies to effectively tackle global warming.

Lomborg's views have been the subject of debate and criticism within the scientific and environmental communities. While he acknowledges the reality of climate change and the need for action, his approach has been contentious due to his skepticism about the urgency and extent of the problem, as well as his emphasis on cost-benefit analysis in addressing environmental issues. Critics argue that his views may downplay the severity of climate change and undermine the urgency of taking significant and immediate action to mitigate its effects.

It is essential to consider a range of perspectives and evidence when evaluating statements about climate change and environmental policy. While Lomborg's emphasis on long-term thinking and the need for effective resource allocation resonates with some, it is important to critically assess the broader context of climate change and the diverse range of viewpoints within the scientific and policy communities.

In conclusion, Bjorn Lomborg's quote encourages a longer-term perspective on global warming and highlights the current level of investment in renewable energy research. His emphasis on a 50-year scale prompts consideration of the enduring and far-reaching nature of climate change, while the reference to the US expenditure on renewable energy research underscores the need for greater investment and strategic planning to address this critical issue. However, it is important to approach Lomborg's views with critical scrutiny and consider a wide range of perspectives and evidence when engaging with the complex and pressing challenges of climate change.