The Intelligence from The Economist Clear skies with a chance: covid-19’s green opportunity
May 25, 2020
Katrine Bragg, The Economist's environment editor and an expert in climate change, delves into the dramatic drop in carbon emissions during the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlights this as a unique chance for a sustainable economic transformation, emphasizing legislative needs to maintain these gains. The conversation also addresses the challenges of achieving climate targets and the shifting landscape of sports due to the pandemic, including creative adaptations like cardboard cutouts in empty stadiums. Bragg offers insights into the future of both the environment and sports in this new reality.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Emissions Drop During Pandemic
- The COVID-19 crisis significantly impacted emissions, dropping them by 8.6% between January and April 2020.
- This drop, potentially reaching 7-8% for the entire year, is substantial but could be quickly reversed with economic recovery.
Past vs. Present Emission Drops
- The 2008 financial crisis also caused an emissions drop, but they rebounded quickly.
- The current situation differs; renewable energy is cheaper, the Paris Agreement exists, and public opinion favors climate action.
Policy Recommendations for Green Transition
- Phase out fossil fuel subsidies, increase renewable electricity generation, and electrify transportation.
- Invest in green R&D, including low-tech solutions like ecosystem restoration and tree planting.