America Adapts - The Climate Change Podcast

In episode 207 of America Adapts, Dr. Kelly Turner of UCLA and Dr. Ladd Keith at the University of Arizona join host Doug Parsons to discuss groundbreaking work in extreme heat governance and planning, specifically focusing on the recent NOAA grant awarded to launch the Center for Heat Resilient Communities. The grant aims to enhance heat resilience in communities by encouraging connections between stakeholders and the federal government, with a heavy emphasis on climate justice and environmental justice as part of President Biden’s Justice40 initiative. The discussion also covers federally funded research programs supporting rural and tribal communities with heat resilience, mapping shade equity nationally, and initiatives on indoor cooling. Kelly and Ladd encourage involvement in the field of heat policy and governance, inviting individuals to reach out and engage with the three year project. Topics covered: NOAA Grant Overview Biden Administration's Role Principals and Key Partners/Community Partnersh

In episode 206 of America Adapts, the podcast partnered with Battelle for their third annual Innovations in Climate Resilience Conference, ICR24. The conference took place April 22-24th in Washington, D.C. at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. Keynote speakers and attendees join the pod to share their experiences in climate adaptation and also discuss highlights from the conference. The event attracted senior level federal officials along with emerging adaptation professionals from the private sector.  The themes of the conference were resilience, mitigation and sustainability and you learn how Battelle, through the conference, is prioritizing adaptation. This is the third ICR and the first to be hosted in the nation’s capital. You’ll also hear from a high school student who won Battelle’s Climate Challenge - the future of adaptation is in good hands. ICR24 isn't just any conference; it's a convergence of minds, bringing together environmental professionals, scientists, researc

In episode 205 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Abrahm Lustgarten, an investigative climate reporter and author from Propublica. Abrahm discusses his work on climate change and migration and highlights his coverage of various climate-related issues such as water scarcity, sea level rise and wildfire. Abrahm’s book, "On the Move," explores climate-driven migration in the United States. He traveled the country learning how areas are preparing, or not, for the impacts of climate change. He goes on the ground and interviews people in the heart of these climate impact zones.  You’ll learn the unique struggles people have as it becomes increasingly expensive…and dangerous…to live in these impact zones. We also discuss how the media is doing covering climate migration and what the government can potentially do to help with this growing threat. And an all new episode tradition, Doug's "Hot Take"!  Topics covered: Abrahm Lustgarten and climate journalism Abrahm’s  Book: "On the Move" Reporting at ProPublica

In episode 204 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Bill Weir, the Chief Climate Correspondent at CNN. Bill shares his insights into how climate change now intersects with every aspect of our lives, transforming all beats into climate beats. Drawing from his experiences covering climate stories, he emphasizes the power of storytelling. We delve into the inspiration behind his book, "Life As We Know It," which looks at positive climate stories all inspired by the birth of his son. Critiquing mainstream media's coverage of climate change, he calls for a shift towards highlighting adaptation and innovation over sensational disasters. Bill unveils his upcoming special, "Adaptation Nation," and shares the joys and challenges of interviewing icons like Paul McCartney. Bill will leave you with some practical advice on how you can bring climate communication into the important adaptation work you’re doing. Join us as we explore the interconnectedness of climate with our lives and the transformative power of storyte

In episode 203 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Dr. Justin Mankin. Justin is a climate scientist and associate professor at Dartmouth College. Doug and Justin discuss his provocative column in the New York Times on climate data accessibility – should tax funded climate data remain a public good.  Justin also explains the intricacies of climate modeling and the ethical considerations of private sector involvement. Justin also emphasizes the significance of aligning private and public sector efforts for effective climate adaptation. Doug and Justin discuss the importance of having a National Adaptation Plan and Justin also highlights the work of his students in climate impact attribution and loss and damage research. America Adapts is increasingly covering the issue of climate data and modeling and in this thought providing discussion, we learn about the ethical considerations of privatizing a public good. Topics covered: Understanding Climate Models The Right to Climate Data Legal Implications of Cli

In episode 202 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Dr. Maxine Burkett, a Professor of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. We’re taking a dive into the podcast archive and I’m rereleasing this previously and extremely popular episode:  The Moral Case for Climate Reparations + Climate Justice with Maxine Burkett. Maxine is  a Professor of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. We talked about the  state of climate migration; as we adapt, what will dominate, peaceful approaches to adaptation or more conflict oriented approaches; Differences in Climate justice in the global north and the global south. And Repairing relationships through climate reparations and Maxine makes a compelling case that reparations are a way forward to helping frontline communities adapt to climate change.. You’re going to enjoy this conversation. In this episode, Doug and Maxine discuss: the moral and intellectual case for climate reparations; climate migration; differences in climate justice in the global north and the

In episode 201 of America Adapts, I'm partnering with Battelle on their Innovations in Climate Resilience Conference, ICR24, taking place April 22-24th in the heart of Washington, DC. ICR24 isn't just any conference; it's a convergence of minds, bringing together environmental professionals, scientists, researchers, students, and key leaders from the White House, Department of Energy, National Labs, Department of Defense, industry, and academia. In this episode, we have a lineup of expert guests who will delve into the core of climate resilience. First up is Justin Sanchez, a technical fellow at Battelle. Justin will ground us in Battelle's unique approach to resilience and share insights into their early work in climate adaptation. He'll also provide an exclusive preview of what to expect at ICR24. Following Justin, we're joined by John Conger of Conger Strategies. With extensive experience working in Congress and holding senior leadership positions at the Department of Defense, John will shed light on th

In the epic 200th episode of America Adapts, we’re partnering with the U.S. Department of Defense and highlighting the adaptation research they support.  In this episode, we're turning our focus to The Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program, or SERDP, at the DoD and the Energy and Environment Innovation Symposium they hosted in late 2023.  As the architects of innovation and research, you will hear how the DoD is interacting with partners and providing resilience research for military installations and other civilian applications. Get ready to explore topics ranging from surprise events to E-DNA, and that's just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the groundbreaking research conducted at SERDP.  We’re taking you behind the scenes to understand what it truly means to take a research idea, secure funding, and see it through to real-world applications in the field. SERDP is actively exploring ways to expedite this process.  Throughout this episode, you'll hear from a diverse range of voices –

In episode 199 America Adapts, it is a recap of 2023. In this episode, we highlight the top climate stories of 2023 and also discuss some of our favorite America Adapts episodes of the past year.  Joining the pod is Anita Van Breda of Wildlife Wildlife Fund, Monika Serrano of Turner Construction and Jessica Mederson of the law firm Stafford Rosenbaum. In addition, there are two short bonus interviews:  Dr. Refilew Mofoke, a professor from South Africa, joins the episode to talk about her new podcast the Plastic Planet Podcast, focusing on plastics and what they mean for the marine environment. And finally Stephen Robert Miller, an independent journalist, joins the pod to discuss his new book, Over the Seawall,  Tsunamis, Cyclones, Drought, and the Delusion of Controlling Nature. These are always fun episodes where we discuss current events and go behind the scenes on the podcast. Enjoy! Experts in this Episode: Anita Van Breda - Senior Director, Environment and Disaster Management, World Wildlife Fund Mo

In episode 198 America Adapts, we’re partnering with Forerunner, a software company that works with local governments to help them with disaster management, flood risk and adapting to future impacts of climate change.   Our discussion will feature insights from floodplain managers operating in both riverine flooding areas and coastal flood zones. These flooding experts are on the ground, finding ways to help their communities with extreme flooding and changes expected with a changing climate. The episode delves into the increasing role of technology in their work, emphasizing the crucial aspects of communication and outreach to garner community support for the establishment of effective flood prevention programs. Susannah Pho, co-founder of Forerunner, shares with us how climate analytics and technology are helping some of these front line adapters, in this case, flood plain managers, to do their jobs more effectively.  Exploring the practical experiences of these managers and the tools they find instrument

In episode 197 America Adapts, we’ve got something special for you - the ultimate guide to the fifth edition of the National Climate Assessment. Joining the pod is the director of the NCA, Allison Crimmins who provides a 30,000-foot level view of what’s in NCA5. Then regular contributor – and executive producer of America Adapts – Dr. Jesse Keenan of Tulane University joins the episode and we take a deep dive on what’s in the assessment. Jesse will be your guide through the assessment, as he analyzes and provides expert insights into its positive aspects and benefits. Finally, Dr. Eric Tate of Princeton University – and co-author of the adaptation chapter of NCA5 – wraps up the episode.  All three offer their advice on how you can leverage the NCA in your adaptation planning and climate communications. In the world of climate adaptation, finding a common language can be challenging, but embracing the NCA can be a game-changer, helping those doing work in ESG, Sustainability, resilience and adaptation plannin

In episode 196 America Adapts, we partnered with the Climate Science Alliance to cover their Climate Summit at the San Diego Natural History Museum.   Experts, speakers and participants from the Summit are highlighted in this episode. We kick things off with Dr. Amber Pairis of the Alliance setting the stage for the Alliance’s approach to transformational adaptation, emphasizing community-centered approaches, resilience, and relationship building. Multiple tribal voices share the importance of indigenous approaches to climate adaptation. The summit was a rousing event with many diverse voices sharing their perspectives on transformational adaptation. You’ll also hear how art and culture play a critical role in how society is going to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Looking ahead, the Alliance aspires to build on their momentum, encouraging others to adopt their transformational adaptation model and fostering partnerships. The episode highlights the power of collective action and offers insights for o

In episode 194 of America Adapts, we take a deep dive on climate risk and the insurance sector. Earlier in the fall host Doug Parsons attended a two day conference hosted at American University in Washington DC. The conference was organized by the Environmental Defense Fund, SBP and American University. The event brought together experts focusing on the role of insurance in building equity in disaster recovery, reducing future losses, new innovations in expanding coverage and the role of insurance in managing increasing climate-related disasters. You’ll hear the need for insurance companies to conduct climate risk analysis and the role of government in addressing these issues. Experts at this conference laid the intellectual groundwork on where the insurance industry will need to go and you’ll hear highlights in this episode. This episode was generously sponsored by the Environmental Defense Fund. Dr. Carolyn Kousky, Associate Vice President for Economics and Policy at Environmental Defense Fund  Francis

In episode 194 of America Adapts, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) returns to continue the  'Flood Green Guide' series focused on nature based approaches to flood risk management. This is a follow up to the episodes from 2018 published shortly after the release of their “Natural and Nature Based Flood Management: A Green Guide, better known now around the world as the Flood Green Guide. In the intervening years, despite setbacks by the pandemic, WWF has been busy doing trainings on the flood green guide and in this episode, we're exploring how WWF engages youth in flood risk and management.  We'll hear from young individuals worldwide, sharing their experiences with flooding and their thoughts on nature-based approaches to flood risk management and the importance of art, science, and engaging communities. We’ll discuss why WWF is launching a new Flood Green Guide Youth Champion initiative, the importance of including youth in flood risk reduction strategies and some of the barriers young leaders face while trying

In episode 193 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Michael Coren, a journalist from the Washington Post who writes the Climate Coach Advice column. We go behind the scenes and learn how a national newspaper like the Wash Post covers climate change. Several major newspapers have expanded their climate coverage in the last couple years and you’ll learn how the Post has structured that coverage.  We also discuss some of the diverse topics he covers in his “Climate Coach” column and his increasing focus on climate adaptation. The conversation also touches on climate skepticism and the state of climate action in California, showcasing Michael's unique perspective and expertise in the field of climate journalism. The episode starts with a short interview with Laur Hess Fisher from MIT who shares a preview of Season 5 of the Today I Learned Climate Podcast.   Topics Covered: How a major newspaper covers climate change The Climate Coach advice column Should the media use the phrase “natural disaster”? Shou

In episode 192 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Dr. Kelly Turner and Dr. Ladd Keith. Kelly is an Associate Professor of Urban Planning at UCLA and Ladd is an assistant professor in the School of Landscape Architecture and Planning at the University of Arizona.  We learn how extreme heat disproportionately impacts marginalized communities.  We also explore the evolving media coverage of extreme heat. The three of us break down the highs and lows of all the media coverage of extreme heat this past summer.  We also learn about Kelly’s research on heat's impact on California schools, and what that means for both public health and student learning.  We take a dive into federal approaches to heat management and learn about the glaring disparity in resources and attention allocated to extreme heat compared to other climate hazards and ponder the potential for FEMA to classify extreme heat as a disaster declaration.  We also discuss the value of having a national adaptation plan for extreme heat planning. Fina

In episode 188 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Dr. Linda Shi, an Assistant Professor in the Department of City and Regional Planning at Cornell University. Dr. Shi takes us on an insightful journey through her experience at a managed retreat conference in New York City. She navigates conversations encompassing climate migration, the intriguing concept of the Northeast as a climate haven, and pioneering initiatives in cooperative housing. Highlighting the NOAA "NEST" program – Northeast Safe and Thriving for All – Dr. Shi explores how regions can emerge as climate refuges amid population migrations due to climate impacts. The conversation also delves into the intricate terrain of property rights and their misalignment with climate adaptation needs, revealing the inadequacy of many existing land use models. Lastly, a short interview with Amy Chester, Managing Director of Rebuild by Design, spotlighting their "Atlas of Disaster" report. This report provides a state-specific lens on federal disaster decla

In episode 190 of America Adapts, the Natural Resources Defense Council joins the podcast to discuss flooding buyout programs and how climate change will give rise to new demands for these initiatives. Also joining the podcast are partners in the buyout field, including The Nature Conservancy, the Climagration Network, Wetlands Watch, and a representative from a local government in Charlotte, North Carolina. Additionally, we will hear from a resident of Lake Charles, Louisiana, who underwent a challenging yet ultimately successful journey through a buyout program. This episode provides an array of fantastic resources regarding buyouts, which will increasingly assume a critical role as we adapt to the impacts of climate change. Donate to America Adapts Social Media images courtesy of Mario Tama / Getty Images, Chelsea Donovan Experts interviewed (in order of appearance): Anna Weber, Senior Policy Analyst on NRDC’s Climate Adaptation team Shameika Hanson, Community Protection Specialist at The Nature

In episode 189 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons attended the U.S. Department of Defense Climate Resilience Workshop in St. Louis, Missouri. The DoD extended an invitation to Doug to conduct interviews with key leaders within the DoD and their external partners who are actively involved in adaptation planning around military installations. The conference attracted over 900 experts specializing in adaptation.  During the event, Doug had the opportunity to interview three Assistant Secretaries from the DoD, as well as representatives from prominent corporate partners like ICF and Deloitte. Additionally, he spoke with NGO partners such as Environmental Defense Fund and the National Wildlife Federation. The interviews shed light on the specific security challenges posed by climate change to our national defense.  Listeners will gain valuable insights into how different organizations and companies engage with the DoD to develop effective resilience planning. Moreover, the interviews underscore the importance of rob

In episode 188 of America Adapts, Doug Parsons hosts Susan Crawford. Susan is a law professor at Harvard Law School, focusing on adaptation and public and the author of a new book, Charleston: Race, Water, and the Coming Storm. We discuss the intersection of race and climate change in Charleston's infrastructure planning. We highlight the city's reliance on tourism, the impacts of climate change on marginalized communities, and potential solutions such as buyouts and managed retreat. Learn terms like raging politeness and benevolent paternalism and their relevance to race relations in the city. The conversation emphasizes the importance of inclusive approaches, government intervention, and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing climate challenges. It’s a riveting discussion about one of America’s oldest cities and how it plans to adapt to climate change. Donate to America Adapts Topics Covered:  Introduction to Susan Crawford and her new book Charleston: Raging Politeness and Benevolent Pater