Podcast Summary: Zero Hour with James Poulos
Episode: Ep 80 | Is RFK Jr. Making Environmentalism a Conservative Issue? | Featuring Benji Backer
Release Date: January 13, 2025

Introduction and Topic Overview

In Episode 80 of Zero Hour with James Poulos, host James Poulos engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Benji Backer, the founder of the largest conservative youth environmental organization in the United States and author of Conservative Environmentalism. The episode delves into the evolving landscape of environmentalism in America, examining its decline in bipartisan support and exploring how figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are reshaping environmental discourse within conservative circles.

Decline of Environmentalism in America

James opens the conversation by highlighting a significant shift in American environmentalism. Historically, environmental issues enjoyed broad bipartisan support, with Benji Backer noting, “80% of Americans self-identified as environmentalists in 1990... today that number is 38%” (02:22). This decline is attributed to the politicization of environmental topics and the influence of high-profile activists like Greta Thunberg and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), who, according to Backer, “made environmentalism a Trojan horse for other ideas” (02:09).

RFK Jr.’s Role in Conservative Environmentalism

A central theme of the episode is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s (RFK Jr.) impact on environmentalism within conservative movements. Backer emphasizes that RFK Jr. has successfully prioritized environmental issues without resorting to extreme measures, fostering a more pragmatic and inclusive approach. He states, “The next four years provide this real opportunity for the right to take this issue and say, hey, we care about this too” (04:16).

Benji Backer’s Journey and Organization

Benji Backer's personal journey underscores the episode's narrative. Growing up in Wisconsin and deeply involved in conservative politics from a young age, Backer found a gap in environmental advocacy that aligned with his conservative values. In 2016, he founded a conservative environmental organization that now boasts over 55,000 activists and 220 chapters nationwide. Backer explains, “We have 55,000 activists across the country and growing very quickly... advocating for sensible environmental policies” (06:09).

Bipartisan Environmentalism vs. Current Partisan Divide

The conversation contrasts the historically bipartisan nature of environmentalism with its current entanglement in partisan politics. Backer reminisces about a time when environmental issues transcended political affiliations, allowing for collaborative solutions. He remarks, “Teddy Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan... were the original conservationists. They were Republicans and they proposed good conservative policy for the environment that also is good for our country” (08:00). This bipartisan approach is now overshadowed by divisive rhetoric, making environmentalism a battleground rather than a collective effort.

Critique of Current Environmental Policies

Backer critiques contemporary environmental policies, particularly the Green New Deal, asserting that it incorporates non-environmental elements that alienate conservatives. He states, “The Green New Deal... 25% of the Green New Deal has nothing to do with the environment or climate at all” (09:15). Additionally, he challenges the efficacy of mandates and governmental overreach, favoring innovation and technological advancements over regulatory approaches. Backer cites California’s environmental struggles as evidence that government-led initiatives may be counterproductive: “California has pursued this kind of people suck... their emissions are going up” (12:06).

Nuclear Energy as a Solution

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on nuclear energy as a viable solution to environmental challenges. Backer advocates for the revival and expansion of nuclear power, highlighting its safety and efficiency compared to other energy sources. “Nuclear is the safest and most efficient energy source we have... it provides 24/7 clean electricity with zero fossil fuel emissions” (54:30). He criticizes the environmentalist opposition to nuclear energy, attributing it to misplaced fears and lobbying influences.

Big Agriculture and Sustainable Farming

The episode also addresses the role of big agriculture in environmental degradation. Backer emphasizes the need for sustainable farming practices to feed a growing global population without compromising environmental integrity. He argues, “Mass production of food... takes away a lot of the nutritional value and discourages change” (53:37). Backer advocates for regenerative agriculture and carbon sequestration as methods to enhance efficiency and sustainability in food production.

Rewilding and Conservation Efforts

Rewilding and the restoration of natural ecosystems are explored as crucial elements of environmental conservation. Backer supports initiatives to reintroduce native species and preserve wild spaces, asserting that “everything is connected” and that disrupting ecosystems can have far-reaching negative impacts. He shares his interest in projects like reintroducing buffalo to restore prairie ecosystems and criticizes extreme interventions like gene editing mosquitoes, labeling them “permissionless genocide” (17:33).

Building Coalitions for Nonpartisan Environmentalism

The episode culminates with a discussion on the importance of building broad coalitions to address environmental issues beyond partisan lines. Backer envisions a movement where environmentalism is unified across political spectrums, leveraging technological innovation and community-driven initiatives. “Let's work together on embracing nuclear... managing our forests better... promoting sustainable agriculture,” he urges (42:32). He sees figures like Donald Trump as potential allies in this endeavor, capable of bridging the urban-rural divide and fostering a inclusive approach to environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

Zero Hour with James Poulos Episode 80 offers a compelling exploration of the intersection between conservatism and environmentalism. Through Benji Backer’s insights, the episode underscores the potential for a unified, nonpartisan approach to environmental issues, advocating for sensible policies, technological innovation, and coalition-building. By reclaiming environmentalism from partisan warfare, Backer and Poulos posit that America can address its environmental challenges effectively and inclusively.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Benji Backer (02:22): “80% of Americans self-identified as environmentalists in 1990... today that number is 38%.”
• Benji Backer (04:16): “The next four years provide this real opportunity for the right to take this issue and say, hey, we care about this too.”
• Benji Backer (06:09): “We have 55,000 activists across the country and growing very quickly... advocating for sensible environmental policies.”
• Benji Backer (09:15): “The Green New Deal... 25% of the Green New Deal has nothing to do with the environment or climate at all.”
• Benji Backer (12:06): “California has pursued this kind of people suck... their emissions are going up.”
• Benji Backer (54:30): “Nuclear is the safest and most efficient energy source we have... it provides 24/7 clean electricity with zero fossil fuel emissions.”
• Benji Backer (53:37): “Mass production of food... takes away a lot of the nutritional value and discourages change.”
• Benji Backer (17:33): “Permissionless genocide” referring to gene editing mosquitoes.
• Benji Backer (42:32): “Let's work together on embracing nuclear... managing our forests better... promoting sustainable agriculture.”

Zero Hour with James Poulos continues to challenge listeners to rethink conventional narratives, encouraging a reconciliatory and innovative approach to pressing environmental issues.