The Audio Long Read ‘We’ve done it before’: how not to lose hope in the fight against ecological disaster
Oct 6, 2025
The discussion explores historical successes in environmental action, like the ban on whaling and the eradication of leaded gasoline. It highlights the importance of regulation over market forces in protecting nature. Key events, such as the Donora smog, illustrate how crises can catalyze policy change. The podcast emphasizes the Montreal Protocol as a triumph of global cooperation against ozone depletion. Ultimately, it reminds listeners that past victories offer hope in the ongoing fight against ecological disasters.
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From Whale Oil To A Global Moratorium
- Whale oil once powered lamps and machines until rock oil and electricity replaced it.
- Despite alternatives, whaling continued until a moratorium saved many species.
Create Alternatives Before Banning Harmful Tech
- Build and scale alternatives before demanding bans on harmful practices.
- Use cheaper, cleaner technologies like wind and solar to make the old systems obsolete.
Markets Alone Won't End Harmful Practices
- Markets can supply better technologies but won't necessarily stop harmful practices.
- Laws and collective decisions are often required to end destructive industries.
