David Roberts, a renowned journalist and author of the 'Volts' newsletter, shares his insights on recent setbacks in climate policy, particularly regarding the Inflation Reduction Act. He discusses the intertwining of politics and climate action, reflecting on pivotal legislative moments. The conversation dives into the complex U.S.-China dynamic in the global energy transition and the crucial role of public perception in shaping policy outcomes. Roberts advocates for innovative communication strategies to engage wider audiences in climate solutions.
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insights INSIGHT
US Climate Policy Dysfunction
US climate policy progress has repeatedly failed due to deep political dysfunction.
No current strategy seems likely to succeed without fundamental systemic change.
insights INSIGHT
Trump's Unique Impact on Climate Policy
The political theory behind the Inflation Reduction Act is correct but slow to manifest.
Trump's unique influence caused swift policy reversals that override usual political dynamics.
insights INSIGHT
Clean Energy Progress Despite Setbacks
Despite setbacks, clean energy progress in the US continues through state efforts and private sector demand.
Large federal climate breakthroughs seem unlikely; progress will be piecemeal and local.
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This week, David Roberts is back on the show to discuss what has happened to the Inflation Reduction Act and what it means to clean energy and the climate movement to have such a major setback. We step back to think through the landscape of climate policy now and also reflect on pivotal moments in the recent history of legislative efforts that have shaped the current state of clean energy in the U.S. From his early days at Grist to his influential work at Vox, David offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of advocating for climate action.
We also discuss the shifting political theories and strategies that have influenced policy decisions over the years and examine the complex interplay between politics and climate policy. David explores the role of public perception in shaping policy outcomes and why waking up to the new media enviornment is critical for the climate movement. He argues that changing the narrative around climate solutions can engage broader audiences and drive meaningful action. We also discuss the U.S. and China dynamic in the global energy transition and what he has made of covering Elon Musk over the years.
David Roberts is a renowned journalist and the author of the "Volts" newsletter and podcast. With a career spanning over two decades, David has been a leading voice in climate and clean energy journalism, specifically offering some of the most in-depth analysis and commentary on energy policy. We are always incredibly lucky to have him on the show. You can become a subscriber to Volts here.
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