Bill McKibben discusses the importance of engaging Boomers in climate action. He highlights the need for collective activism and recommends organizations like 350.org and ThirdAct.org. The podcast also explores the battle between big oil and climate activists, emphasizing the shift towards sustainable energy sources.
Climate action needs intergenerational collaboration to mobilize more people.
Fossil fuel companies obstruct climate progress with misinformation and lobbying efforts.
Deep dives
Bill McKibbens' Environmental Activism Journey and Climate Movement
Bill McKibben, a prominent environmental activist, has been fighting for climate action for almost 40 years. Starting with his book 'The End of Nature' in 1989, McKibben has been a pivotal figure in raising awareness about the climate crisis. He founded 350.org, a successful climate action group, and initiated the Third Act to engage unlikely climate activists in the movement. McKibben emphasizes the importance of mobilizing people across generations, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change collectively.
Fossil Fuel Industry's Influence and Climate Change Denial
The fossil fuel industry has actively hindered climate action by funding disinformation campaigns and lobbying against environmental policies. Following Jim Hanson's testimony on global warming in 1988, the industry invested significant resources in sowing doubt and denying climate science. Despite scientific consensus, the industry continues to perpetuate misinformation to maintain its business model. Efforts like the Global Climate Coalition have obstructed international climate agreements, emphasizing the industry's influential role in shaping policy.
Shift to Renewable Energy and Urgency of Climate Action
Advocates like Bill McKibben stress the imperative to transition to renewable energy sources to combat the climate crisis. The increasing affordability of solar and wind energy, coupled with advancements in battery technology, offers a sustainable solution. McKibben underscores the need for swift action to avert catastrophic climate impacts. With significant investments in clean energy and policy changes, there is a pathway to mitigate carbon emissions and address the urgent need for climate action.
Author and activist Bill McKibben joins the show to talk about how he's trying to bring climate action to an overlooked group: Boomers. Show notes from Chris:
We need to get as many people activated as possible, so get involved and share your passion, intelligence, and empathy with family, friends, and colleagues. There are many groups to help you get started and learn more. It’s a wonderful sign of the progress we’re seeing around the world that there are so many groups. But for a great place to start, check out 350.org, the Sunrise Movement, and of course, ThirdAct.org.
If you want to learn more about how fossil fuel companies have outspent clean energy groups by an eye-watering 27 times, there is a great article here in The Conversation.
Bill’s latest book is “The Flag, the Cross, and the Station Wagon”. You can read a great review here.