Outrage + Optimism: The Climate Podcast

Tony Goldner, Executive Director of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures, sheds light on the recent Biodiversity COP in Colombia. He emphasizes the urgent need for businesses to integrate nature into their risk assessments, discussing how corporate resilience relies on the health of ecosystems. As mandatory nature disclosures gain traction, Tony highlights the role of investors in demanding accountability. He also stresses the importance of actionable sustainability strategies and the invaluable contributions of Indigenous leaders in climate initiatives.

Yassamin Ansari, Congresswoman-elect for Arizona's 3rd District and a champion of progressive change, shares her insights on the surprising implications of Trump's presidency for climate policy. She discusses the vital role of young leaders in promoting resilience and hope amid political polarization. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating climate initiatives in a divided landscape, the impact on international climate agreements, and the importance of diverse representation in governance. Expect a dose of optimism as Ansari emphasizes the need for collaboration in achieving meaningful climate action.

Monica Medina, Arnhold Distinguished Fellow at Conservation International and former US Special Envoy for Biodiversity, joins a lively discussion about biodiversity at the COP negotiations in Colombia. She highlights the critical link between climate and biodiversity and shares her optimism about a new oceans fund. The conversation dives into the importance of indigenous participation and fair compensation for genetic resources, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches to environmental stewardship and financial support for local communities.

Ben Goldsmith, a green investment pioneer and rewilding advocate, dives deep into the transformative power of rewilding to restore ecosystems. He discusses how music festivals like Glastonbury can elevate environmental consciousness and shares inspiring conservation stories, including efforts to save the northern white rhino. The conversation emphasizes grassroots community projects, the emotional bond humans share with nature, and the ecological benefits of reintroducing species like wolves. Goldsmith highlights the crucial link between nature's revival and our collective well-being.

Joining the discussion is Richard Kinley, a former senior official at the UN Climate Change Secretariat, who brings his wealth of experience in international negotiations. The conversation dives into the upcoming Rio Trio: three pivotal COPs on biodiversity, climate, and desertification. Kinley shares insights on their interconnected challenges and the historical evolution since the 1992 Earth Summit. The urgency of establishing a Plastics Treaty is also highlighted, emphasizing global cooperation in tackling pollution and fostering a comprehensive environmental governance framework.

The hosts dive into the profound dilemma of having children during a climate crisis. They explore ethical questions about procreation and environmental responsibility. Personal stories reveal the emotional landscape of modern parenthood intertwined with eco-anxiety. The discussion shifts to empowering future generations by fostering resilience and collaboration. They emphasize the necessity of honest dialogues about climate change with children, aiming to inspire a sense of hope and agency in an uncertain world.

The hosts tackle the devastating impacts of recent hurricanes, linking their intensity to man-made global warming. They highlight the withdrawal of insurers from Florida, leaving vulnerable communities in crisis. A fascinating discussion follows on the spread of conspiracy theories around these storms, revealing how misinformation hinders solidarity during calamities. The conversation emphasizes the role of the fossil fuel industry in exacerbating weather events, calling for accountability and action amidst the rising chaos.

Explore the complex relationship between food and climate change. The hosts discuss staggering food waste statistics and the inequities in global food systems. With over two billion facing food insecurity, they delve into cultural shifts towards plant-based diets. Personal anecdotes reveal the challenge of balancing enjoyment and responsibility in eating. They call for systemic changes, highlighting the environmental impacts of dietary choices. Finally, the potential for a sustainable food future is examined, urging listeners to rethink their eating habits.

Explore how career choices connect to the climate crisis and why many are willing to pivot for sustainability. Discover personal journeys that align values with impactful work, and how collaboration can drive meaningful change, especially in healthcare. Hear how young professionals are prioritizing eco-friendly jobs, alongside success stories of businesses thriving with green initiatives. Finally, delve into the rise of entrepreneurship as a catalyst for innovation in tackling environmental challenges.

The hosts tackle the contentious topic of flying during a climate crisis. They explore the environmental impact of air travel and the differing views on its acceptance. Sustainable aviation fuels are discussed, alongside the challenges of costs and availability. Carbon offsetting is highlighted as a vital tool for mitigating flight emissions. The conversation wraps up emphasizing individual responsibility and innovative travel solutions, encouraging listeners to engage in thoughtful discussions about their travel choices.