The Climate Question Trump and the planet: The first 100 days
May 2, 2025
Justin Rowlatt, the BBC's climate editor, shares insights on the drastic climate policy shifts under President Trump’s administration. He discusses the revitalization of the coal industry and the funding cuts for clean energy projects. Rowlatt also highlights the emotional toll on climate scientists due to job losses and research cuts. The conversation covers the implications for international climate diplomacy and the urgency for global cooperation as emission targets are missed, stressing the long-term effects of neglecting climate research and green technologies.
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NOAA Scientist’s Firing Story
- Tom Di Liberto, a NOAA climate scientist, was fired twice after the administration cuts.
- He describes grief turning into anger over the impact on people who will be harmed by these cuts.
Climate Denial’s Impact on Science
- Trump's administration actively tries to erase mentions of climate change in official documents.
- This denial and cutting efforts weakens the science that helps predict climate impacts and natural disasters.
Tariffs Disrupt Clean Tech Trade
- Tariffs imposed by Trump disrupt global trade for clean tech from China.
- This could negatively affect the availability of solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles worldwide.