Climate Change Politics in the USA
An interview with Professor Stacy VanDeveer
Last semester, visiting professor Stacy VanDeveer gave a thought
provoking talk at the Webster's International Speakers
Seminar, speaking about global warming and its
political implications.
Although the issue of global warming is not a
new concern, the politics that exist behind global warming and the
legislative changes that are taking place in the United States is
an issue which has rarely been discussed from a purely political
standpoint. The Knapp Gallery was filled to capacity with
students, staff and professors, all who were interested in the
developments and challenges that are taking place in the United
States political climate.
VanDeveer’s lecture was informative and the
content was inclusive and clear. After an hour of slides and
an array of new information, VanDeveer took time to answer a myriad
of questions. The audience agreed that the lecture was
enlightening and engaging.
For those of you who missed it, enjoy the
following interview with University of New Hampshire Professor
Stacy VanDeveer.
Climate Change Politics in the USA
Why do you think it is important for
people of all ages to look at the issues of global
warming?
It is vital for people of all ages
to look at global warming because it will be a fact of political
and social life for decades to come. If people don’t push
politics to act, there will be much worse trouble later.
In your opinion, has global warming
been proven to be a "real" threat?
Clearly, and the evidence that it
is happening and probably speeding up is mounting.
Global warming is a world wide issue
that, for many is overwhelming. What do you think we, as
individuals can do to help this problem?
Push political decision makers and
act at every level of government and in the private sector.
In other words, push local actors as well as others at higher
levels.
Which countries are doing the
most to stop the environmental damage? Which countries are
not?
The European Union is probably the
clearest leader, but even most of the leaders are moving
slowly. The United Kingdom is home to the biggest promises;
however we have not seen much action yet.
What do you think individual states
must do to seriously address the issue?
They must take a host of actions
to get GHG emissions on a downward trend and keep them on
one.
During your lecture you focused
primarily on the United States, as a nation where does the U.S.
stand in improving or reversing global warming? Are any U.S.
states making notable progress, and if so, how so?
Lots of states are notable.
California is active on a host of issues. Texas is impressive
with regards to renewable energy and the states in the Northeast
are notable as the build an emissions trading system.
Do you think that environmental issues
will be the focus of the upcoming 2008 U.S. Presidential
election? Are there any candidates who have strong
environmental policies?
All three of the Presidential
contenders, Obama, Clinton and McCain, are in favour of doing more
to combat climate change. All three would likely move policy
forward, but all three are still in favour of rather modest action
given the size of the challenge and the dangers involved.
Article by Professor Yossi
Mekelberg, Programme director, International Relations
Page last updated 6/10/2008