John Vaillant, author of 'Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World', discusses the impact of climate change on wildfires, lessons learned from a devastating fire in 2023, building in fire-prone areas, and the dilemma faced by the petroleum industry in Fort McMurray. The podcast emphasizes the need for proactive measures and adaptation to address the challenges of climate change.
Preemptive evacuation is a crucial strategy to combat wildfires entering populated areas.
The building industry needs to adapt by considering fire-resistant materials and relocation plans in the face of climate change-induced wildfires.
Deep dives
Wind Turbine in Milwaukee Saves Money and Performs Well
In a visit to a wind turbine in Milwaukee, the director of environmental sustainability for the city, Eric Schambarger, revealed that the turbine has saved the port of Milwaukee approximately $200,000 on its electric bill since being installed in 2012. Despite being located within city limits, the turbine operates quietly and effectively, dispelling concerns about noise pollution. This success story highlights the potential benefits of utilizing urban wind turbines and their positive impact on energy savings and sustainability efforts.
Wildfires in Canada Serve as a Wake-Up Call for Climate Change Impact
The impact of climate change on the Midwest is becoming increasingly evident, as highlighted by the city of Milwaukee's experience with poor air quality due to wildfires in Canada. The city's director of environmental sustainability, Eric Schambarger, noted that the wildfires, occurring thousands of miles away, severely affected the air quality in Milwaukee, causing health issues, particularly for individuals with asthma. This underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for both proactive measures and adaptation strategies to mitigate its effects.
Canadian Wildfire Triggers Transformation in Firefighting Approaches
Author and journalist John Valiant recounts the devastating wildfire that struck Fort McMurray, Canada, in 2016. The Texas of Canada, as described by Valiant, witnessed a massive fire fueled by extreme heat, low humidity, and a highly flammable environment. This catastrophe exposed the unpreparedness of firefighters, leading to a fundamental shift in their approach. Preemptive evacuation has emerged as a vital strategy, acknowledging the difficulty of stopping fires once they enter populated areas. The wildfire serves as a significant lesson for communities worldwide, emphasizing the importance of considering fire-resistant building materials and relocation plans in the face of climate change-induced wildfires.
Earlier this year, record-setting wildfires in eastern Canada sent plumes of unhealthy air over US cities normally unaccustomed to wildfire smoke. Experts say climate change is making fires like these more likely and more intense. In today’s episode, we hear how a previous blaze in Canada changed how firefighters do battle with the flames and what it can tell us about how the building industry needs to adapt.
Guest: John Vaillant, author of “Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World”