One important difference is that opium addiction in China hurt the addicts in China (and indirectly everyone else in China). Fossil fuel addiction through clima

One important difference is that opium addiction in China hurt the addicts in China (and indirectly everyone else in China). Fossil fuel addiction through climate change hurts everyone. The merchants of the EIC stayed away from using opium themselves because being an opium addict is plainly pretty bad for you. Being a fossil fuel addict, though, can be very pleasant - ski trips to the Alps every month, fast cars, fresh produce flown in out of season etc. The costs will be carried mostly by other people.