Podcast Summary: "The Climate Summit Blues" – On the Media

Release Date: November 17, 2021
Hosts: Brooke Gladstone and Micah Loewinger
Guest: Nathaniel Rich, Writer at Large, The New York Times Magazine

1. Introduction to COP26 and Its Significance

The episode begins by setting the stage for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) held in Glasgow, Scotland. Highlighting the critical goal of keeping global temperature rise below 1.5 degrees Celsius to avert catastrophic climate change, the hosts emphasize the urgency of collective international action. The overarching hope is that COP26 will serve as a pivotal moment in the global effort to combat climate disaster.

2. Skepticism Surrounding Climate Summits

Despite the gravity of COP26, there is a growing skepticism about the effectiveness of these climate summits. Citing the non-profit Climate Action Tracker, the hosts note that "not a single country is on target to meet the 2015 Conference of Parties 21 pledge on, also known as the Paris Climate Accords" (02:01). This raises questions about whether the pledges and negotiations at these summits translate into meaningful action or are merely symbolic gestures.

3. Insights from Nathaniel Rich: The Symbolic Nature of Climate Conferences

Nathaniel Rich offers a critical perspective on the efficacy of climate summits. He argues that since the first serious diplomatic meeting by the IPCC in 1989, the focus has shifted from binding international treaties to "voluntary pledges diluted over and over" (02:59). According to Rich, the primary value of these meetings lies in their "geopolitical symbol" and their role in fostering global awareness of climate dangers, rather than in concrete actions to reduce emissions.

Notable Quote:
"The value of the meetings is geopolitical symbol, largely, and they are helpful in establishing a kind of global consciousness around the extraordinary dangers." – Nathaniel Rich (03:57)

4. Historical Context: From "Losing Earth" to Present-Day Challenges

Drawing from his book Losing Earth, Rich reflects on the period between 1979 and 1989 when there was significant scientific consensus on climate change and bipartisan efforts to address it. He laments the missed opportunities of that era, questioning why effective action was not taken despite "politically as well as atmospherically" favorable conditions (06:00). This historical perspective underscores the persistent challenges in mobilizing global action against climate change.

5. The Evolution of Climate Activism: From Reason to Morality

Rich observes a notable shift in climate activism over the years. Initially, the movement relied on "appeal to reason" strategies, emphasizing scientific evidence and logical arguments to advocate for emission reductions. Over time, this approach faced political limitations, particularly in the United States.

In recent years, youth-led movements like the Sunrise Movement and figures like Greta Thunberg have transformed the discourse by adopting a "moral appeal." This approach frames climate inaction as a betrayal of younger generations and fundamental societal values.

Notable Quote:
"Their message is, you know, your betrayal of us... It's a moral approach and it's a much more personal approach, and I think it's a more honest approach." – Nathaniel Rich (09:22)

6. Intergenerational Tensions and Media Coverage

The conversation delves into the underreported intergenerational tensions exacerbated by climate change. Rich suggests that as younger generations become more vocal and assume leadership roles, conflicts may arise over issues like Social Security and broader societal values. This dynamic represents a "much sharper form of intergenerational strife" driven by frustration over the lack of decisive climate action (11:49).

7. "Second Nature": Navigating a World Dominated by Human Influence

In his latest book, Second Nature: Scenes from a World Remade, Rich explores the pervasive impact of humanity on the planet. He presents a series of stories that highlight how every aspect of the Earth has been altered by human activity, often "recklessly and unintentionally."

One such story features a young chef dedicated to producing lab-grown meat, challenging traditional agricultural practices and addressing ethical concerns related to animal welfare and environmental sustainability (12:58). Through these narratives, Rich examines the eerie and "extremely weird" transformations shaping our world and the ways individuals are adapting to these changes.

8. Personal Reflections: Life in New Orleans and Climate Resilience

Rich shares his personal experiences living in New Orleans, a city grappling with the impacts of climate change, such as coastal erosion and rising sea levels. He recounts a conversation with a scientist from Tulane University, who expressed pessimism about long-term efforts to save the Louisiana coast. Despite acknowledging the likely need for New Orleans to eventually become an "island city in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico," Rich finds inspiration in the city's resilience and cultural ethos of living responsibly amidst perpetual threats (16:56).

Notable Quote:
"Cities are like people. They are born and they die... climate change forces... a kind of civilization mortality." – Nathaniel Rich (19:35)

9. Conclusion: The Psychological and Societal Impacts of Climate Change

The episode concludes with reflections on how climate change is not only a physical threat but also a profound psychological and societal challenge. Rich emphasizes the necessity of integrating climate discourse into literature and culture to explore its impact on human consciousness and societal structures, much like literature did with the nuclear threat during the Cold War (15:25).

Final Thought:
Rich advocates for a literary exploration of how climate change is reshaping our inner lives and societal values, suggesting that understanding these aspects is crucial for meaningful engagement and action.

Key Takeaways:

• Symbolism vs. Action: Climate summits like COP26 often serve more as symbols of global commitment rather than platforms for tangible emission reductions.

• Historical Missed Opportunities: There was a significant window in the late 20th century where effective climate action was politically and scientifically feasible, but it was not fully realized.

• Shift in Activism: Climate activism has evolved from reason-based arguments to moral and emotional appeals, especially driven by younger generations.

• Intergenerational Dynamics: The growing frustration among younger generations regarding climate inaction may lead to increased intergenerational tensions.

• Pervasive Human Impact: Every facet of the natural world has been influenced by human activity, necessitating new ways of living responsibly.

• Resilience and Adaptation: Cities like New Orleans exemplify resilience in the face of climate-induced challenges, highlighting the need for adaptable and forward-thinking strategies.

This summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the "The Climate Summit Blues" episode of On the Media, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and evolving narratives surrounding global climate initiatives.