The Climate Minute

Junctures and paths

The decisions we make today, in a time of dramatic change in our social and energy systems, will have lasting consequence. We touch on the ideas of "Critical Junctures" and "Path Dependence" as ways to understand and make sense of what is happening. 

What does it take to become a ClimateLeader Community?

Massachusetts is rolling out a new program to help communities eliminate carbon emissions. We talk to a local town official to learn the  requirements and benefits of becoming a “Climate Leader Community.”

Massachusetts to look at methane through a ’new lens’

The MA DPU issued a landmark decision that will define how we transition away from methane. It is a big win for climate advocates. 

Update on the COP28 in Dubai

COP28 (the Conference of the Parties) is finishing up in Dubai. There is a agreement on loss&damage, but a fossil fuel phaseout has been cut from the final draft. Will it get back in? 

News from New England

We discuss lots of different news stories and see connections to a new report from the MA climate chief.

Can a new kind of global map help address climate issues?

A detailed, almost ‘3D’ map of the earth’s terrain created using special technology might help address climate issues. We talk to the leader of a startup that hopes to provide new data for these important questions.

How to stop private jet expansion at Hanscom (or anywhere)

The expansion of private jet capabilities at Hanscom is being opposed by a grassroots coalition of activist groups. Listen to  one of those activists describe the issues and what is being done.  Political pressure on the Governor is needed. You can sign a petition to  Governor Healy in a link at  at massclimateactiondotorg/blog. 

Should Hanscom accept more private jet traffic? A new report explains who is flying where.

In the first of two episodes, we hear about private jet traffic at Hanscom Field. Spoiler alert: it is mostly rich people taking relatively short (and consequently very carbon polluting) flights to vacation getaways.  Should your state government  (in the form of MassPort) permit the expansion of these polluting luxury trips? You will have a better answer after listening.  Check our showpage at massclimateactiondotorg/blog for the live links.

Challenges and conundrums in making sense of climate

“Stopping climate change is easy,” said nobody ever. From nuisance lawsuits designed to stall wind turbines, to mis-alignments in state laws, to very real and impactful choices in Somerset we grapple with current issues in addressing global warming here in Massachusetts.

SCOTUS takes aim at EPA as well as most of the rest of your government

The Supreme Court has decided to hear a case that could upend how government functions, and make it more difficult to address climate issues. We discuss that plus the proposed pipeline expansion in New England, as well as a cool new electric bike.