The LRB Podcast Have we surrendered to climate breakdown?
7 snips
Feb 12, 2025 Brett Christophers, a Professor of Human Geography at Uppsala University and author of 'The Price is Wrong,' discusses the alarming shift in climate action from proactive policies to resignation. He critiques traditional economic theories linked to environmental issues and highlights the paradox of fossil fuel companies amidst climate change. The impact of COVID on emissions, the pitfalls of corporate solutions, and the importance of grassroots activism, especially in cases like Ecuador's referendum against oil exploitation, are also examined.
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Stranded Assets
- The "stranded assets" theory suggests some fossil fuels must stay underground to limit warming.
- This concept gained traction in the early 2010s, influencing climate activism.
Paris Agreement and Corporate Commitments
- After the Paris Agreement, some companies made commitments to reduce fossil fuel extraction.
- They anticipated regulations would hinder these activities economically and politically.
China's Energy Paradox
- China leads in renewable energy investment but also continues to develop coal power.
- Rising energy demand and climate change impacts (heat waves, droughts) drive this trend.
