While what you say is true it is important to note that in each of the cases cited in your last sentence, they have successfully changed world opinion and accomplished their stated goals; why should we think it will turn out different this time?
With 6 billion people it would seem that wasting a few is very little damage for a battle as serious as this.
They have practically won, already we see carbon-trading and such, even if it proves later to be complete ineffective, it will still have the patina of good intentions and, at most, just appear worn and dated like statues in old and neglected parks.
By then we will be knee-deep in the next world crisis with so much work to do.
[With 6 billion people it would seem that wasting a few is very little damage for a battle as serious as this.]
Are you volunteering to be wasted?
Some studies suggest there is an over-supply of Old Professors and that a few should be culled from the herd.