On ‘Radio Times’: Climate scientists discuss the effectiveness of science march

     In this Sunday, July 24, 2016, file photo, climate change activists carry signs as they march during a protest in downtown in Philadelphia. (John Minchillo/AP Photo, file)

    In this Sunday, July 24, 2016, file photo, climate change activists carry signs as they march during a protest in downtown in Philadelphia. (John Minchillo/AP Photo, file)

    Scientists and science fans are planning a March for Science on April 22nd, calling for the attention “to defend the vital role science plays in health, safety, economies and governments.” As a response to the election of President Trump, the march has sparked a debate within the science community.

    Earlier this morning on Radio Times, Marty Moss-Coane talked with climate scientist and Columbia University professor, James Hansen, about science’s role in political activity. He said he wants to focus on solutions.  

    “We’ve filled this law suit against the federal government to try to force them to do their job,” Hansen said. “The Citizens Climate Lobby who advocate a carbon fee and dividend. We need these correct policies.”

    However, Robert Young, a geologist from Western Carolina University said that politicizing science will not help with creating better science-based policy.

    • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

    “We’re not going to convenience the professional climate change skeptics,” Young said. “Rather than marching on Washington, I’ve suggested that we need to march into our local communities.”

    To hear more about what the science community is discussing, listen to the full interview on Radio Times.

    WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

    Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

    Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal