Breaking down climate change science into three simple steps
Why can we feel confident and hopeful about our ability to address climate change in this time of need? Even though this topic can often feel complex, overwhelming, and sometimes controversial, what are the three basic things we need to know about the science of climate change that are just undeniable and simple realities?
Sharing his wisdom here is Dr. Jeffrey Bennett, an astronomer, teacher, and author. You'll hear about the relationship between astronomy and our climate; how the solutions to tackling climate change have multi-faceted benefits for our society; how to speak intelligently and with clarity about climate change science; and more. Let's dive in!
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This is a conversation on Green Dreamer Podcast with Kaméa Chayne, a show exploring environmental and intersectional sustainability from ideas to life. Subscribe to Green Dreamer on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, or any podcast app and let’s learn what it takes to thrive in every sense of the word!
Highlights
[2:31] What first inspired Jeffrey's passion for nature.
[3:03] The relationship between astronomy and climate change.
[6:06] The difference between saving the earth and saving civilization.
[6:36] Kaméa: "What's been your greatest personal struggle as you're trying to get this message out there?"
[7:19] Jeffrey explains the simple science behind global warming in three steps.
[9:12] Jeffrey: "There's plenty of hope still out there; we just have to do what we know needs to be done."
[10:44] How a carbon tax could greatly impact our transition away from fossil fuels, and how this could actually strengthen our overall economy.
[13:59] The importance of voting and being politically active.
[15:47] Kaméa: "How does your approach or focus change when you're teaching about the climate in front of different groups of people?"
[18:56] How we can speak more effectively to the general public about climate change.
[22:27] Why climate change is not a partisan concern and how conservatives were actually the ones to first highlight the issue.
References
About our Guest
Jeffrey Bennett is an astronomer, teacher, and author currently on his Global Warming Tour to demystify climate change. He's served two years as a Visiting Senior Scientist at NASA, and specializes in math and science education for audiences ranging from elementary school children to college faculty. He's received numerous awards for his teaching and writing, including the American Institute of Physics Science Communication Award.
Keep in Touch:
Website: www.jeffreybennett.com
Twitter: @jeffreyobennett
Facebook: @jeffreyobennett
Tips
Inspiration: Scientific American, New York Times Science, and Niel DeGrasse Tyson
Note to self: Jeffrey takes inspiration from our younger generations.
Health practice: "I love to swim."
Sustainability practice: "We've been trying to make sure our house is [running on] fully renewable energy."
Element of hope: What makes Jeffrey hopeful is the fact that we've successfully addressed large-scale, global environmental issues before.
Closing words: "Keep dreaming, because we will make those dreams come true as long as we all work together."
