The Daily Putting a Price on Pollution
Jul 23, 2021
Somini Sengupta, an international climate reporter for The New York Times, delves into the pressing realities of climate change. She discusses the unexpected impacts extreme weather is having on wealthier nations, revealing their vulnerability. The conversation highlights bold European legislation aimed at cutting emissions by 55% by 2030, including banning gasoline cars and implementing a carbon tax. Sengupta emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation to tackle the root causes of climate change and the challenges of achieving political will.
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Floods in Asia
- Mumbai, a city of 20 million, experienced a cloud burst and torrential rains, leading to deaths and flooding of the city's water filtration plant.
- Central China also suffered from record-breaking floods, trapping subway passengers in submerged cars.
Wealthy Nations Unprepared
- Previously, climate change's worst impacts were felt by poorer countries.
- This summer's events demonstrate that even wealthy nations like the U.S., Canada, and European countries are unprepared for the current climate.
Examples of Unpreparedness
- New York City's subway system flooded due to heavy rain, revealing a lack of preparedness for extreme weather events.
- Hundreds died in the Pacific Northwest heatwave due to inadequate air conditioning and infrastructure.