Ending the importation of fresh food from Africa in the name of fighting climate change could harm entire communities that rely on this trade, according to Ghana's High Commissioner to Britain. The concept of "food miles" has become a controversial issue, as environmentalists push for reducing carbon emissions. Despite the desire to make a positive impact, the numbers show that airfreighted food makes up a very small percentage of Britain's overall carbon footprint. The High Commissioner questioned the decision to close off economic opportunities for African farmers by refusing to purchase their goods, emphasizing the importance of global justice in the discussion on climate change's effects on Africa. Environmentalists suggest that it is better to produce and consume food locally to reduce airfreighted imports of fruits and vegetables. However, development experts point out that many of these imports come from poorer regions in Africa, with entire communities relying on this trade. Cato argues that there are alternative ways for British consumers to reduce their carbon footprint without harming African farmers. Scientists predict a significant increase in global temperatures due to carbon emissions from fossil fuels, which could result in floods, famines, and extreme weather events, particularly affecting Africa despite its low per capita carbon emissions. Cato emphasized the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in a fair and rational manner, stating that making cuts at the expense of the world's poorest is not only unjust, but also hinders the international consensus needed for a global deal on climate change. UN environment ministers are set to meet next month in Bali to discuss urgent talks on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. Europe is pushing for a deal by the end of 2009, but the United States and China, the world's biggest polluters, are not taking responsibility for the crisis. Cato stressed the need for the post-Kyoto agreement to include proposals for promoting adaptation to climate change with an implementation regime that is acceptable. "This is a matter that pertains to global justice as well as the survival of nations." He further stated that while the damage has been caused by some of the most influential countries in the world, it is the most vulnerable nations that bear the brunt of the consequences.