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Commonwealth Club of California Podcast

Paul Hawken: Carbon, Climate, and Humanity

Mar 24, 2025
Join Paul Hawken, a renowned environmentalist and author, as he explores the paradox of carbon—an essential life-giving element often blamed for climate change. He advocates for a narrative shift from fear to appreciation of nature, urging collective action against environmental challenges. Hawken shares personal stories of human connection, resilience during civil rights marches, and even a surreal encounter with a council of animals, emphasizing our intricate ties to all living beings and the importance of biodiversity.
01:11:03

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Paul Hawken redefines carbon as an essential element for life, emphasizing its critical role in various ecosystems despite common misconceptions about its impact on climate change.
  • Hawken advocates for a shift from merely reducing emissions to actively reversing global warming through collaborative solutions sourced from global researchers.

Deep dives

The Nature of Carbon

Carbon is introduced as a miraculous and essential element for life on Earth, often mischaracterized as the enemy in the context of climate change. Paul Hawken emphasizes that without carbon, life as we know it would not exist, challenging the prevailing negative perceptions surrounding this element. His discussion sheds light on the critical role carbon plays in various ecosystems and its significance in maintaining life. By reshaping our understanding of carbon, Hawken advocates for a more nuanced perspective on environmental issues.

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