Shocked

In theory, the free market should help solve climate change. In reality, it’s rarely that simple. This episode explores how emissions markets work, where they’re taking off to reduce pollution, and why economists still believe markets are essential—if politics will let them be.More on the pollution market in India: https://emissionsmarkets.org/evidence-from-india/More on the scale up efforts: https://emissionsmarkets.org/  Shocked is part of the University of Chicago Podcast Network and produced by Magnificent Noise for the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth, which combines a 360-degree approach to education with frontier research having an impact in front-line communities globally. The Institute’s efforts are driven by the need to balance climate risks with societal growth. To follow or support their work, see our show notes or visit climate.uchicago.eduAmy Harder is the host, along with co-host, Michael Greenstone, a professor at the University of Chicago and director of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth. Our executive producers are Eric Nuzum, Michael Greenstone, and Sam Ori. Our production staff includes Christine Driscoll, Amy Pedulla, Sophie Bridges, Jamie York, and Samantha Henig. Our sound designer is Kristen Mueller.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cynthia Giles, former head of the EPA's Office of Enforcement, shares her insights on revolutionizing environmental inspections through AI. She discusses the challenges posed by limited resources and how AI-driven models can target the worst polluters more effectively. The innovative approach not only improves detection rates but also builds trust among inspectors. They also explore potential expansions of this model to tackle other climate issues like methane emissions. Learn how data and collaboration are reshaping environmental enforcement for a better future!

Anat Surishan, an economist and visiting scholar with a childhood fascination for vultures, dives deep into their puzzling decline in India during the 1990s. The conversation unveils how a veterinary painkiller triggered a cascade of ecological disasters, including rabid dog outbreaks and polluted waterways, leading to over 100,000 human deaths annually. With estimates of the economic fallout reaching $69.4 billion, Anat illustrates why vultures are vital cleanup agents in ecosystems, emphasizing the intricate connections between species extinctions and human health.

David Keith, a physicist from the University of Chicago specializing in climate solutions, dives into the controversial world of geoengineering. He discusses how some experts are considering using techniques to deliberately cool the planet, mirroring volcanic eruptions. The conversation highlights both the potential benefits of solar geoengineering and ethical concerns surrounding its implementation. Keith also addresses the political implications of funding and research in this field, as society grapples with urgent climate crises like the devastating floods in Pakistan.

Air conditioning has evolved from luxury to necessity in our warming world, raising vital discussions about energy consumption. The podcast dives into the vital role of data centers in supporting AI and their hefty energy demands. It critiques the extravagant energy use of entertainment venues like the Sphere in Las Vegas, questioning sustainability efforts. The conversation emphasizes the connection between energy choices and climate change, exploring renewable energy laws and personal actions versus systemic changes to address environmental impacts.

Are you tired of the same climate and energy stories? A warmer world is here. We’re living with it. Now what? Will countries ever stop burning fossil fuels? Should we use less energy? Can we adapt to a warmer world? What will it cost?  Sometimes, we need to start by reexamining things we thought we knew. Shocked is part of the University of Chicago Podcast Network and produced by Magnificent Noise for the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth, which combines a 360-degree approach to education with frontier research having an impact in front-line communities globally. The Institute’s efforts are driven by the need to balance climate risks with societal growth. To follow or support their work, see our show notes or visit climate.uchicago.eduAmy Harder is the host, along with co-host, Michael Greenstone, a professor at the University of Chicago and director of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth. Our executive producers are Eric Nuzum, Michael Greenstone, and Sam Ori. Our production staff includes Christine Driscoll, Amy Pedulla, Sophie Bridges, Jamie York, and Samantha Henig. Our sound designer is Kristen Mueller.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.