
Columbia Energy Exchange
The Untold History of Climate Science and Politics
Aug 27, 2024
Jay Hakes, an energy policy expert, dives into the hidden history of climate science and politics. He discusses how early pioneers like Roger Ravel and Dave Keeling recognized carbon dioxide as a critical issue, influencing U.S. policy. Hakes reveals the challenges these scientists faced in reaching the White House and contrasts U.S. and European approaches to climate change. With insights from his book, he highlights the pivotal roles of advisors and missed opportunities in climate legislation across the decades.
54:25
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of climate change awareness since the 1950s was driven by early scientists who warned about pollution's impact on climate, as evidenced by Roger Revelle's pioneering work on atmospheric carbon measurements.
- Presidential administrations faced challenges in addressing climate policy, fluctuating between environmental responsibility and energy security, reflecting the complex interplay of political dynamics and economic interests throughout the decades.
Deep dives
The Historical Context of Climate Change Awareness
The narrative of climate change awareness can be traced back to the 1950s, highlighting early discussions and warnings from scientists. An important marker includes a 1953 New York Times article predicting how industrial activities would alter the climate, largely influenced by British amateur scientist Callendar’s work. By the mid-1950s, notable figures like Roger Revelle began advocating for serious understanding of carbon dioxide's role in climate dynamics, challenging prevailing beliefs that it would merely fall into the ocean. This era laid the groundwork for a deeper exploration of climate-related issues, encouraging a reevaluation of scientific consensus on climate change.
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