climate change - Climate Break

Rerun: Adapting Ocean Governance for a World of Rising Seas with Dr. Nilufer Oral

The law of the sea convention adopted by the UN in 1982 defines the economic and political sea boundaries critical to small island states, but the rights it guarantees are threatened by rising sea levels. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Nilufar Oral, Director of the Center for International Law at the National University of Singapore and Co-Chair of the UN’s sea level rise study group, on how vulnerable states are advocating for updated protections.

Climate & Society, Policy

Salt Marshes: Ecosystem Powerhouses in Climate Regulation and Biodiversity

Wetlands, especially coastal salt marshes, provide crucial ecosystem services including biodiversity preservation, water regulation, carbon storage, and climate regulation. Human activities have degraded many of these ecosystems, but restoration projects, such as those at Cape Cod National Seashore, aim to rejuvenate affected marshes and restore their vital functions.

Land, Policy, Sequestration

The “30 by 30” Conservation Movement, with Jennifer Norris

The “30 by 30” conservation movement aims to conserve 30 percent of the Earth’s land by 2030. California is among the first jurisdictions to implement a comprehensive 30 by 30 strategy and has invested $11 billion towards the effort. The movement focuses on protecting biodiversity, engaging local communities, and building resilient ecosystems, while also navigating challenges like land use conflicts and climate change adaptation.

Climate Justice, Land, Policy, Sequestration

Hydrogen Fuel’s Potential to Decarbonize Aviation

Air travel accounts for about 2.5 percent of global carbon emissions. To reduce emissions from aviation, ZeroAvia is seeking to build the world’s first zero-emission passenger jet powered by hydrogen fuel, which offers three times more energy per kilogram than jet fuel and emits no toxic fumes when combusted. Hydrogen fuel’s higher energy density and capacity for consistent electrical power make it a promising potential energy source for aircraft.

Energy, Transportation

Using Paleo Valleys to Recharge Aquifers, with Dr. Rosemary Knight

How can insights from geophysics help us to make better use of rainwater? Geophysicists, like Stanford’s Dr. Rosemary Knight, can identify ancient, buried riverbeds called paleo valleys. We spoke with her about how such geologic structures can help us recharge aquifers deep below the Earth’s surface.

Land

Electrifying Motorcycle Taxis in Africa to Reduce Emissions and Save Drivers Money

Electric motorcycles and battery swap technology can improve livelihoods and reduce emissions in Africa and around the world. Ampersand, an African electric vehicle company, provides affordable electric motorcycles (called “e-motos”) in East Africa and operates a convenient battery swap system. These e-motos are replacing polluting gas motorcycles with a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.

Climate & Society, Climate Justice, Transportation

Prescribed Burns with Bill Tripp

The use of indigenous forest burning practices, also known as prescribed burns, can reduce the risk of severe wildfires and promote healthier habitats amid climate change. Bill Tripp from the Karuk Tribe discusses the importance of re-establishing these practices.

Climate & Society, Climate Justice, Land, Policy

Climate Change Litigation on Behalf of Young People, with Julia Olson

Young people worldwide, represented by organizations like Our Children’s Trust, are increasingly using litigation to force governments to take climate action. This trend is illustrated by notable cases like Juliana v. United States and Held v. Montana.

Climate & Society

Improving on 100% Renewable Portfolio Standards through Hourly Matching, with Jan Pepper of Peninsula Clean Energy

Electricity providers can meet renewable energy portfolio standards while still relying on fossil fuels during high-demand hours. But by matching renewable energy supply to demand every hour of the day, San Mateo County’s Peninsula Clean Energy seeks to fully decarbonize the grid. We spoke with CEO Jan Pepper to learn more.

Energy

Growing a Conservative Youth Environmental Movement, with Karly Matthews from the American Conservation Coalition

Climate Break talks with Karly Matthews, the communications director for the American Conservation Coalition. The coalition seeks to mobilize young conservatives to support climate action by harkening back to earlier generations of Republican leaders that favored environmental protection.

Climate & Society