Commonwealth Club of California Podcast CLIMATE ONE: Environmental Peacebuilders Working in the Midst of War
Nov 7, 2025
In this thought-provoking discussion, Peter Schwartzstein, an environmental journalist, dives into the intricate ties between climate stress and violence, highlighting how governance can make or break communities facing these challenges. Fareed Mahameed shares his dedication to climate justice, illustrating efforts to support Palestinian and Bedouin communities with vital resources and infrastructure. Liana Berlin-Fischler discusses innovative clean-tech solutions like off-grid wastewater treatment, emphasizing how environmental cooperation can bridge divides and foster peace in conflict zones.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Climate Shapes Political Reality
- Peter Schwartzstein realized climate and politics interlink, especially in the Middle East where water scarcity is acute.
- He found environmental struggles often explain a country's story better than surface-level politics.
Mosul Villages And Recruitment Pressure
- Peter described villages around Mosul where failing farms and proximity to the city left young men vulnerable to ISIS recruiters.
- Those recruits were drawn more by shrinking livelihood options than by ideology.
Farmer Turned Fighter
- In Burkina Faso Peter met Boubacar, a quiet farmer pushed into militia work after repeated failed harvests.
- Boubacar later died fighting, illustrating how livelihood collapse funnels people to armed groups.
