Economist Podcasts Taking the temperature: a climate chat with the UN chief
Dec 11, 2020
Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, chats with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about climate optimism ahead of a key meeting on the Paris Agreement. They discuss the recent decline of Thierry Baudet's far-right party in the Netherlands, highlighting his controversial leadership and the internal strife that led to its downfall. The conversation also touches on how the pandemic shifted Airbnb market dynamics, revealing guest preferences for hygiene and cleanliness in their rental choices.
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Paris Agreement Goals
- The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to 1.5-2°C above pre-industrial levels.
- The US rejoined the agreement under Biden after leaving under Trump.
Climate Change Acceleration vs. Mitigation
- Climate change is accelerating faster than global efforts to mitigate it.
- There is hope with increased climate commitments from major emitters.
Biden's Climate Importance
- Biden's climate commitments are crucial for the Paris Agreement's success.
- His appointment of John Kerry signals a prioritization of climate action.