Elizabeth Bomberg, a Politics Professor at the University of Edinburgh specializing in environmental politics, delves into Donald Trump's climate plans. She discusses the implications of his past policies and future intentions regarding emission regulations and the Paris Agreement. Bomberg highlights the tension between economic interests and environmental protection, along with the impact of recent court rulings on climate funding. The conversation also touches on the rising influence of renewable energy, especially in conservative regions, amid a polarized political landscape.
Trump's climate plans include promoting fossil fuel extraction and reducing regulations, posing significant environmental implications for the U.S.
Public skepticism and the narrative linking environmental protection to economic growth shape political responses to climate policies and debates.
Deep dives
Climate Change and Skepticism
The episode highlights the ongoing debate about climate change in the United States, including the growing evidence linking climate change to increasingly severe weather events, such as wildfires. Despite scientific consensus on the reality of climate change, many Americans remain skeptical, with some attributing environmental issues to perceived political agendas. This skepticism affects public perception of climate policies and impacts how politicians respond to environmental crises. With over 60% of Americans disapproving of former President Trump's handling of climate matters, there exists a significant disconnect between scientific understanding and public opinion.
Executive Power in Environmental Policy
The discussion delves into the extraordinary power that a president wields through executive orders, particularly concerning environmental regulations. Trump’s past administration used executive authority to roll back key environmental protections and regulations that had been established over several decades. Such actions can have immediate effects but are often reversible by subsequent administrations, as seen when President Biden rescinded many of Trump's orders early in his tenure. Consequently, the short-term impact of executive actions raises questions about their long-term efficacy in environmental governance.
Future Environmental Policies Under Trump
As Trump prepares for a potential return to office, the episode outlines his environmental policy intentions, which include promoting fossil fuel extraction and reducing regulations on emissions. Trump expresses a desire to increase fossil fuel production on public lands and eliminate regulatory hurdles for industries like fracking, which has significant environmental implications. Additionally, he plans to withdraw from international agreements like the Paris Agreement, potentially isolating the U.S. in global climate discussions. Despite these intentions, there is a burgeoning recognition in the market of the importance of renewable energy, especially in states that are not traditionally aligned with progressive environmental policies.
The Intersection of Environmentalism and Economic Growth
The episode also emphasizes the narrative that positions environmental protection in opposition to economic growth, a view often promoted by Trump and his allies. This perspective has significant implications for how policies are framed and debated, with environmental advocates increasingly urged to align their arguments with economic benefits. The discussion touched upon the potential outcomes of straying from supportive policies for renewable energy at a time of rising global investment in cleaner technologies. As competition for renewable energy markets heats up, U.S. leadership and innovation could be at risk if domestic policies become less conducive to supporting the industry.
What has Donald Trump claimed he would do when it comes to environmental policy in the U.S.? What happened during his last administration? And what are the limits on executive powers when it comes to treaties and global agreements?
Elizabeth Bomberg, Professor of Politics at the University of Edinburgh, tells us what we can expect when it comes to emissions regulations, drilling, climate research, the Paris Agreement, and so much more.