The same paradox applies to energy use, owing to the destructive impact of large-scale carbon emissions. Even the consumption of basic necessities like food (production of which can have major environmental consequences) and water (given limited supplies) is not exempt.
比如，使用抗生素或许是个体的理性选择。但如果数十亿人都使用抗生素，畜牧业者也使用抗生素增产，抗生素就会失去效果。同样的悖论也适用于能源，因为大规模碳排放会导致破坏性影响。甚至粮食（其生产可能带来严重环境后果）和水（供给有限）等基本必需品也不例外。