Climate activist Benji Backer and author Akshat Rathi discuss the role of free market in addressing climate change and the challenges faced by green conservatives in promoting environmental conservation. They explore bipartisan efforts and lessons from different political approaches, emphasizing the potential for conservative action on climate change.
Conservatives can support climate action by embracing climate capitalism and finding economic opportunities.
Some conservative politicians are recognizing the importance of climate change, leading to bipartisan efforts in environmental conservation.
Deep dives
Conservative Environmentalist's Advocacy for Bipartisan Environmental Protection
Despite skepticism within the Republican party regarding climate change, a young conservative environmentalist from Wisconsin believes in fostering bipartisan efforts to protect the environment. He emphasizes the shared values of enjoying nature and outdoor activities, highlighting the potential for conservatives to engage in environmental conservation. The activist seeks to bridge the gap by showcasing that combating climate change can offer economic opportunities, improve local environments, and create common ground for diverse political ideologies.
Changing Conservative Perspectives on Climate Change
The young conservative activist acknowledges the need to convince conservatives that climate change is a real and pressing issue. While not all conservatives may agree on the urgency of climate change, there is a growing trend among conservative politicians towards acknowledging the reality of climate change and supporting pro-climate legislation. The activist aims to demonstrate that addressing climate change aligns with conservative values and can lead to beneficial outcomes, such as job creation and environmental preservation.
Economic and Environmental Benefits of Climate Capitalism
The discussion delves into the concept of climate capitalism, presenting it as a solution rather than solely attributing it to the problem of climate change. It highlights examples from countries like China where capitalism has driven innovation in clean energy technologies, particularly in the electric vehicle industry. By emphasizing the partnership between governments and businesses, the podcast showcases how capitalism, when directed towards sustainable initiatives, can play a significant role in addressing environmental challenges and promoting economic growth.
Fighting climate change is not a very common Republican position. Climate activist Benji Backer argues it should be, and Climate Capitalism author Akshat Rathi explains how the free market could play a role.
This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Andrea Kristinsdottir and Rob Byers, and hosted by Noel King.