Shocked

Jeff Homestead, a former White House regulatory lawyer, discusses the complexities of emissions markets and their role in tackling climate change. He shares insights on the innovative cap-and-trade program designed to combat acid rain and its impact on reducing pollution. The conversation shifts to adapting these markets for India, highlighting successful trials and regulatory challenges. Homestead also reflects on the political landscape, the potential for carbon markets, and the need for pragmatic leaders to drive effective solutions.

In this discussion, Pedram Hassanzadeh, a researcher at the University of Chicago, dives into how AI is revolutionizing weather forecasts for smallholder farmers in vulnerable regions. He explains the limitations of traditional physics-based models and how pattern-matching AI can provide tailored, actionable predictions. The conversation also covers the democratization of weather science and the importance of feedback from farmers to improve these models. Ultimately, they explore how accurate forecasts not only enhance agricultural decisions but could also save lives.

Join Shirley Meng, a Pritzker School professor and battery scientist, alongside Spencer Gore, co-founder of Bedrock Materials, as they dive into the fascinating world of battery innovation. They discuss the potential of solid-state sodium-ion batteries as a game-changer in energy storage. Spencer shares insights into his startup's challenges and the difficult decision to close, while Shirley highlights the urgency for the U.S. to advance sodium technology amidst growing competition from China. Can the next generation of batteries rise to the occasion?

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.

What does pragmatic climate policy look like today? In this special episode, our Michael Greenstone sits down with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-North Dakota) for a frank conversation about regulation, the energy transition, and the politics of bipartisan climate action. The two senators don’t always agree—but they share a belief that durable change starts with listening. 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!

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.

Renee Collini, Director of the Community Resilience Center, and Jeremy Porter, Chief Economist at First Street, delve into the intricate issues surrounding sea level rise. They discuss how local communities must lead decisions on adaptation and resilience. Collini emphasizes the importance of understanding localized flood risks beyond outdated FEMA maps. Porter highlights how market data on flooding influences homebuyer decisions and predicts that wealthier areas will invest in protective measures, while many vulnerable regions may face abandonment.

Katharine Hayhoe, a leading climate scientist and professor, discusses the uncertain future of climate change driven by human choices. She explores how our decisions shape projections and policy outcomes, emphasizing the importance of remaining vigilant despite recent progress. Katharine highlights the complexity of climate narratives and calls for personal engagement to connect climate action with hope. She also shares insights on the energy transition and the political challenges that could impede progress, underscoring the global inequality of climate impacts.

Discover how oil transformed Guyana from poverty to rapid economic growth almost overnight. The discussion reveals the tension between newfound wealth and rising inequality, exploring the impacts on infrastructure and local lives. Hear personal stories about living pre-oil, as well as the challenges of adapting to rapid change. The debate intensifies over the balance of environmental concerns against immediate benefits, questioning who truly reaps the rewards and the broader implications for developing nations.