Shift Key with Robinson Meyer
Heatmap News
Every week, Heatmap News Executive Editor Robinson Meyer and Princeton University Professor and energy systems expert Jesse Jenkins make sense of the biggest shift of our time -- navigating the energy transition away from fossil fuels. Drawing on their years of experience reporting on and researching climate change and decarbonization, Meyer and Jenkins unpack the most important issues of the week and how the impacts of climate change and efforts to address it are transforming our economy, politics, and society at large. Music by Adam Kromelow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
36 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 1h 4min
How Democrats Are Trying to Trump-proof Their Big Climate Law
In this discussion, Kristina Costa, Deputy Assistant to the President for Clean Energy Innovation, outlines pivotal aspects of the Inflation Reduction Act. She highlights its unprecedented scale and urgency amidst potential political shifts. Costa delves into the importance of state capacities in advancing these climate goals and the need for innovative federal tools to compete with global leaders like China. Additionally, she shares strategies to safeguard these climate initiatives from future threats, emphasizing collaborative efforts in the private sector.
15 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 1h 6min
How Trump Could Dent EVs in America
Corey Cantor, a Senior EV analyst at BloombergNEF, dives into the intricate dynamics of electric vehicles in the U.S. He discusses the recent surge in EV sales, spotlighting GM's advancements while contrasting it with Ford's delays. The conversation shifts to potential repercussions of Trump's policies on EV tax credits and adoption rates. Cantor highlights international collaboration affecting the U.S. market and examines the pivotal role of state incentives amid evolving competition, especially from China.
8 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 59min
The World Will Miss 1.5C. What Comes Next?
Kate Marvel, an associate research scientist at Columbia University and NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, shares eye-opening insights about the climate crisis. She discusses the stark reality that the world is likely to surpass the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Marvel emphasizes the significance of every fraction of a degree in the fight against climate change, explaining the critical differences between tipping points and feedback loops. The conversation navigates feelings of despair and hope, urging immediate action and innovative solutions.
14 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 1h 5min
Trump, China, and Climate Change: What Happens Next?
Joining the discussion is Jeremy Wallace, A. Doak Barnett Professor of China Studies at Johns Hopkins University and expert on U.S.-China relations. He dives into how Trump’s policies might pave the way for China to take the lead in clean energy tech. Wallace also analyzes China's economic landscape and energy strategies, contrasting them with U.S. approaches. He highlights the geopolitical intricacies at play, especially the implications of fluctuating U.S. leadership on global climate efforts and emissions.
6 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 46min
The Inflation Reduction Act Is About to Be Tested
The recent election could dramatically alter the future of the Inflation Reduction Act and climate policy. With Trump’s pro-fossil fuel agenda in play, the potential for repealing key environmental regulations is high. There are uncertainties surrounding EV tax credits and the auto industry, particularly with fluctuating political support. Additionally, discussions on carbon pricing reveal resilience despite conservative trends. Overall, shifting political dynamics will shape the landscape for clean energy and decarbonization efforts in the coming years.
7 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 59min
Climate-o-Rama: EVs, Oil, Trump, and More
The discussion dives into the rebound of electric vehicle sales in the U.S. and the buzz around the Cybertruck. Attention is given to political influences affecting decarbonization, including recent permitting reforms. The urgency of climate change is underlined by a recent report, revealing how EVs are reshaping global oil demand. The hosts explore the significance of local elections on clean energy policies and the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on investments. They also touch on the EPA's new powers to enforce emissions regulations, paving the way for a greener future.
Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 2min
Are Democrats the Party of Nuclear Now?
Jillian Goodman, deputy editor at Heatmap, joins Josh Freed, senior VP of Third Way’s climate and energy program, to discuss nuclear energy's resurgence. They explore major tech companies' investments in advanced nuclear, illustrating a crucial shift in energy policy. The conversation highlights the Democratic Party’s evolving support for nuclear power and the impact of public perception among younger voters. Freed also touches on the role of unions in boosting nuclear projects, revealing how attitudes are changing in a demand-driven market.
Oct 16, 2024 • 1h 1min
Talking Permitting Reform, Trade, and More With Biden’s Top Climate Advisor
Ali Zaidi, National Climate Advisor to President Biden, discusses a bold future for U.S. climate policy. He delves into the complexities of permitting reform and the delicate balance between negotiating with Republicans and protecting environmental interests. Zaidi also highlights the need for bipartisan approaches to trade that address carbon emissions and emphasizes equitable job creation in the clean energy sector. With insights from current decarbonization efforts and investments in green hydrogen, the conversation underscores the ambition and challenges of sustainable economic development.
22 snips
Oct 9, 2024 • 1h 6min
Want to Decarbonize Your Life? Here’s How.
Jillian Goodman, deputy editor at Heatmap News, and Emily Pontecorvo, founding staff writer, share insights on effective actions for tackling climate change. They delve into the Decarbonize Your Life project, highlighting impactful choices like energy-efficient heat pumps and dietary changes. The discussion includes the importance of collective consumer influence and sustainable transportation, including the benefits of electric vehicles and e-bikes. They also explore the challenges of transitioning to cleaner technologies and navigating public charging stations.
13 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 48min
How Climate Change Shaped Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction, killing over 180 people and causing unprecedented flooding across several states. Experts discuss the link between climate change and the increasing severity of hurricanes. Rising ocean temperatures are integral to understanding storm intensity and rainfall. The podcast emphasizes the urgent need for resilient infrastructure and localized adaptation strategies, especially for vulnerable communities. With shifting hurricane patterns, the importance of scientific advancements and communication in disaster preparedness is highlighted.
