Nobel Prize Economist: 3 Choices Every Country Has On Climate | Ep. 456 with Gary Yohe

Description

Daniel sits down with Gary Yohe to explore what four decades of climate research reveal about the future of the planet. Gary explains why climate change is also an economic problem, whether it is too late to reverse course, and why misinformation and inaction concern him as much as rising temperatures.The conversation also explores Gary's Nobel Peace Prize experience, the threats climate scientists have faced, carbon markets, lessons from successful adaptation programs, and why hope matters even when optimism is difficult.Key Discussion Points- Are we past the point of no return? Gary says no, but warns that many climate impacts are already unavoidable and could persist for decades or centuries. He explains why reducing emissions today can still prevent worse outcomes.- Abate, adapt, or suffer: Gary introduces the three fundamental responses to climate change: reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to unavoidable impacts, and build resilience against the damages that remain.- The hidden danger of climate misinformation: Gary argues that one of the greatest threats is the spread of misinformation and the resulting inability to coordinate meaningful responses. He also recounts the intimidation and threats faced by climate researchers.- The Nobel Peace Prize and 195 countries: Gary shares his experience contributing to the IPCC and helping write 30 words on climate risk management that were accepted by consensus by 195 countries, shaping how policymakers approach uncertainty and adaptation.- What actually works against climate change: The conversation examines carbon markets in Europe and elsewhere, along with an adaptation success story in South Asia where protecting livestock and addressing local evacuation barriers helped dramatically reduce flood deaths.- AI, climate risk, and the future of science: Gary compares the potential threats of artificial intelligence and climate change, explains why science must be accessible to ordinary people, and shares advice for young researchers facing an increasingly difficult