A recent study by Dutch analysts found that the growth of global carbon dioxide emissions halved in 2008, which is good news.

However, the report suggests that human maneuvers like using more renewable energy and trying to be more socially conscious, were only a minor cause for the downturn.

Instead, they cite the high oil prices earlier this year and the global recession in 2008's latter half as the major forces. Both factors led to a decrease in oil consumption for the first time since 1992, and the United States consumption of the resource fell a substantial seven percent.

It will certainly be interesting to see what happens this year with the economy "supposedly" on the rebound and oil prices rising again.

Read More:

• Growth of global carbon emissions halved in 2008, say Dutch researchers (Guardian.co.uk)
• Stocks to Post Big Gains, Economy to Rebound: Pros (CNBC)
• Oil Prices: $65 and Rising (Wall Street Journal)