Summary
In this episode of the StarTalk podcast, Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice discuss the impact of the coronavirus on climate change with climate scientist Gavin Schmidt and director of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York. They discuss how CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels contribute to climate change and how the reduction in transportation due to the coronavirus lockdown has led to cleaner air. However, they note that the reduction in emissions is only temporary and that the problem of climate change requires a more long-term solution. The hosts also discuss the potential link between air pollution and susceptibility to the coronavirus, as well as the use of climate modeling to understand both climate change and the spread of the virus.
Katherine Hayhoe, director of the Texas Tech Climate Center, joins the conversation to discuss the similarities between the coronavirus pandemic and climate change. She explains that both crises impact our health, welfare, and economy, and that they are interconnected through the displacement of ecosystems and the spread of zoonotic diseases. Hayhoe emphasizes that the poorest and most vulnerable populations are the most affected by both crises, and that food insecurity is a major concern. She also notes that political scientists are particularly worried about the potential impact of disasters on democratic systems.
The podcast also delves into the role of fear in shaping attitudes towards climate change and the coronavirus, and the mindset of people who reject climate change and spread conspiracy theories. Dr. Hayhoe emphasizes the importance of restoring the balance between the cost of fossil fuels and clean energy, which would lead to a reduction in carbon emissions. She also suggests that people should fact-check sources and be aware of bias to inoculate themselves against bad science.
Overall, the podcast provides an informative and engaging discussion on the role of models in scientific predictions and the urgent need to address climate change and the coronavirus pandemic. The tone is friendly and conversational, with a focus on educating listeners about the impact of these two global issues. The episode ends with Dr. Hayhoe reminding listeners that the health and well-being of our loved ones and communities are what truly matter, and that we can all take action to address climate change.
