The Brian Lehrer Show Developing Nations Face Climate Change
Sep 23, 2025
David Gelles, a reporter for the New York Times and author of "Dirtbag Billionaire," joins to discuss the pressing challenges developing nations face amid climate change. He emphasizes the impact of U.S. policy shifts, particularly after the Paris Agreement withdrawal. Gelles highlights the existential threats to nations like the Marshall Islands from rising sea levels and examines the tricky balance Guyana faces between oil development and rainforest conservation. He also showcases Kenya's strides in electrification, demonstrating hopeful leadership in the climate crisis.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
U.S. Retreat Causes Global Whiplash
- The Trump administration's reversal created whiplash for global climate efforts and domestic programs alike.
- World leaders now find the U.S. less reliable as a partner on climate action.
Plan For Policy Uncertainty
- Plan for policy uncertainty when investing in local clean-energy projects and expect shifting incentives.
- Prioritize predictability because inconsistent federal policy disrupts municipal and corporate investment decisions.
Marshall Islands' Existential Threat
- The Marshall Islands sit just seven feet above sea level on average and face existential threats from rising seas.
- Their government registered boundaries with the UN so the country can exist on record even if the islands vanish.
