Global Warning

Climate change could transform our planet sooner than we thought. A new report from the United Nations says that just 1.5 degrees Celsius stand between us and dangerous conditions. At risk: our ecosystems and economies, food and water security, homes and lives.

So what does this mean? Do we take radical measures to slow down global warming? Or do we hold on to our way of life, and figure out a way to adapt to what’s coming? On this episode of The Pulse, we hear about climate action proposals — from carbon capture to zero-waste living — that could help us brace for the future.

Also heard on this week’s episode:

• The promise and pitfalls of carbon sequestration — an emerging approach to fighting global warming.
• A visit to Japan’s “zero-waste” town Kamikatsu, which has made green living a way of life.
• Audio producer Claire Schoen considers the next step in her climate change activism: getting arrested.
• Biologist Samantha Chapman explains how mangrove trees could help protect our coasts.
• RAND Corporation policy researcher Benjamin Preston discusses Americans’ collective willingness to take the big steps climate activists want — such as abandoning fossil fuels.