President Biden's climate policies, the debate over declaring a climate emergency, the Supreme Court's ruling on redirecting funds, the lethal consequence of extreme heat, and adapting to a changing climate and protecting vulnerable communities are discussed in this episode.
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Quick takeaways
President Biden has accomplished significant climate policies and bills, such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan infrastructure law.
Climate activists are urging President Biden to declare a climate emergency, granting him additional executive powers and resources to address the crisis.
Deep dives
President Biden's Accomplishments on Climate
President Biden has been hailed as the most accomplished climate president in U.S. history due to his climate-focused bills and initiatives. For instance, the Inflation Reduction Act, which invested $369 billion in climate and clean energy incentives, is considered his signature climate law. Additionally, the bipartisan infrastructure law dedicated tens of billions of dollars to clean energy and climate resilience. However, despite these achievements, some climate activists argue that more needs to be done.
The Potential of Declaring a Climate Emergency
Climate activists are urging President Biden to declare a climate emergency, which would grant him additional executive powers to address the crisis. By invoking the National Emergencies Act, the president could allocate federal resources and taxpayer dollars toward building cleaner energy systems and encouraging green products. He could even halt federal oil and gas drilling and exports of crude oil. Activists compare this approach to a wartime mobilization, emphasizing the need to unify all sectors of the economy and society in combating climate change.
Challenges and Considerations in Declaring a Climate Emergency
While a climate emergency declaration does not require congressional approval, there are political and practical challenges to consider. President Biden is cautious about taking such a step due to concerns over blue-collar voters and the economic effects of a clean energy transition. He also recognizes the potential backlash from declaring a climate emergency, setting a precedent for future administrations. Moreover, implementing strategies like widespread adoption of white paint for heat reflection faces practical hurdles and regulatory obstacles. Nevertheless, local communities are taking action by declaring climate emergencies and implementing climate adaptation plans.
When it comes to climate policy, President Biden has accomplished more than any of his predecessors. But activists want more: They want him to declare a climate emergency.
This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn and Avishay Artsy, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Serena Solin and Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and David Herman, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.