How to Save the Environment from Trump and Project 2025
Jan 9, 2025
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Joining Stacey Abrams is Tik Root, a Senior Staff Writer at Grist and expert on climate change policy. They discuss the dangers posed by Trump’s potential second term, including threats to the Inflation Reduction Act and environmental regulations. Tik emphasizes the important role of citizens in monitoring local environmental safety. They also highlight how to engage in climate activism and take individual actions to combat the fossil fuel agenda, offering a roadmap for community involvement in these critical issues.
The contrasting environmental policies between Biden and Trump highlight the urgent need for citizens to understand their local impact and advocate for accountability.
Engaging in community-level climate advocacy and monitoring local environmental conditions can empower individuals to influence policy decisions effectively.
Deep dives
Navigating Environmental Policy Changes
The podcast highlights the significant contrast between the environmental policies of President Biden and former President Trump. Biden's administration has enacted the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest piece of climate legislation in history, which allocates nearly $400 billion for clean energy and emissions reductions. In contrast, Trump is expected to reverse many of these policies and reinstate fossil fuel practices, illustrating a tug-of-war regarding climate action. This situation emphasizes the urgency for citizens to understand how each administration’s policies affect not just the environment but also their own lives and communities.
Impact of Leadership on Regulatory Agencies
Key appointments in Trump's potential second administration, such as Lee Zeldin to the EPA, suggest a future with diminished environmental protections. These appointments may lead to significant budget cuts and a shift in focus from enforcement to deregulation, allowing industries to self-regulate. The forecasted changes underscore concerns that the credibility of climate science and environmental safety may be undermined. As a result, community members are urged to engage in monitoring local conditions and advocating for continued governmental accountability in environmental matters.
Citizen Engagement in Climate Advocacy
Listeners are encouraged to become active participants in climate advocacy by utilizing available tools and information resources. Engaging with local journalists and climate-focused nonprofits can help individuals stay informed about environmental issues specific to their regions. The podcast discusses the importance of public comment periods for new regulations, where citizens can voice their concerns and insights to influence policy decisions. By elevating local voices and fostering community-level discussions, individuals can better influence the direction of environmental policy.
The Role of Market Forces in Renewable Energy
Market dynamics are shifting towards renewable energy technologies despite potential administrative obstacles. As the demand for electric heat pumps increases and costs for solar and wind energy decrease, the energy transition continues to gain momentum. However, the podcast cautions that tariffs and a reduction in subsidies for clean energy could disproportionately impact lower-income households, potentially widening equity gaps. Keeping an eye on market trends and advocating for equitable energy access will be crucial as the landscape evolves amidst changing political influences.
In his first term, Donald Trump pulled out of the global Paris Climate Accords and rolled back over 100 regulations impacting the safety of our air, water, and environment at large. As we prepare for Trump’s second term, Stacey Abrams speaks to Tik Root, Senior Staff Writer at Grist, about what protections and milestones are most at risk, which elements of the Inflation Reduction Act have bipartisan appeal, and how much Congress and the courts could play a role in slowing Trump’s fossil fuel agenda. They also discuss actionable ways that individuals can monitor their environmental safety and climate impact within their communities and homes.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
We want to hear your questions. Send us an email at assemblyrequired@crooked.com or leave us a voicemail at 213-293-9509. You and your question might be featured on the show.
Learn & Do More:
Read Tik and his colleagues’ climate reporting at Grist.org
Do research to identify climate and environmental issues that are impacting your community
Look out for incentives like tax rebates to reduce your energy costs and upgrade your appliances
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