Seems too me (and I do not claim to be well informed) that Q's question re: are we just putting the problem off for later generations to have to deal with (sorry Q, for the very rough paraphrase) drives right to the heart of the matter.

Seems to me that we keep looking for ways to excuse and/or mitigate against our current consumption, with no true foresight regarding the implications for our children and grandchildren.

In my own lifestyle habits, I am as guilty as anyone.