Justin Rowlatt, the BBC’s Climate Editor, and Carl Nasman, US climate issues correspondent, discuss the pivotal role of the US in the global climate crisis. They dive into how political candidates like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump could reshape climate policy. The conversation highlights the shift from denial to viewing climate change as an economic issue. They also explore the Biden administration's initiatives and the potential implications of shifting back to Trump-era policies, all while emphasizing the urgency for action and the growing momentum in renewable energy.
The outcome of the U.S. presidential election will critically influence both domestic climate policies and global climate negotiations, highlighting America's pivotal role in addressing climate change.
Public perception of climate change has shifted significantly in the U.S., with around 75-80% acknowledging its scientific realities and prioritizing climate policies in their voting decisions.
Deep dives
The Urgency of Climate Change in America
Climate change is increasingly perceived as a pressing issue by many Americans, evident through the extreme weather events that have impacted daily life across the country. Cities have experienced record-breaking heat, wildfires, and natural disasters, leading to billions in damages from events linked to climate change. Public awareness has significantly shifted, with a growing consensus—around 75-80%—acknowledging the scientific realities of climate change that were previously met with skepticism. This heightened awareness prompts voters to consider the candidates' climate policies as critical to their future and the well-being of the nation.
Divergent Climate Policies of Trump and Harris
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump present starkly contrasting views on climate policy that reflect their overall political strategies. Harris emphasizes aggressive action on climate change, supporting initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to drastically cut emissions and transition the U.S. toward renewable energy. In contrast, Trump, despite softening his rhetoric from labeling climate change a hoax to criticizing climate initiatives as detrimental to business, views these policies as economically harmful. This divergence shapes the electorate's choices, especially in crucial swing states where economic concerns around industries like fracking are paramount.
The Influence of U.S. Climate Policy on Global Strategy
The United States plays a significant role in global climate change discussions, contributing a substantial portion of the world's carbon emissions, making its policies consequential internationally. The Biden-Harris administration has taken steps to return to global climate leadership by rejoining the Paris Agreement and implementing ambitious domestic policies aimed at reducing emissions and promoting green technology. In contrast, Trump's previous withdrawal from international agreements and rollback of environmental protections illustrates a retreat that could embolden other nations to follow suit. The upcoming U.S. election will not only determine domestic policy but also significantly influence international climate negotiations and collective efforts to address global warming.
How could Kamala Harris or Donald Trump shape the global response to the climate crisis? As one of the world’s largest producers of fossil fuels and carbon emissions, the US plays a pivotal role in addressing climate change. The environmental policies of the next president could reshape American industry and the economy, while influencing the global fight against climate change. On this episode, Sumi Somaskanda speaks to the BBC’s climate editor Justin Rowlatt and Carl Nasman, who covers US climate issues for the BBC.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Peter Goffin, Tom Kavanagh and Eleanor Sly
Sound engineer: Hannah Montgomery
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
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