Our failure to do something about carbon (in the last 30 years we've comprehended it) doesn't diminish the progress made.

We wouldn't be having this conversation but for the Industrial Revolution, because none of us would be wealthy enough (in real terms) to afford the technology to do so.

Indeed, the technology itself likely wouldn't exist because the world as a whole wouldn't be wealthy enough to afford the research.

Avoiding progress out of fear for its effects is Luddite in the truest sense. And I don't say that pejoratively -- simply to note that it's tantamount to advising "Stop making progress!"

Innovate. Overcome challenges. Build and discover a better future.