About this episode

Emma discusses the reluctance to address climate change directly and the societal focus on adaptation over mitigation.

In this episode, Emma tackles the “unspeakable C word”—climate—and explores why, even amid extreme weather and record-breaking heatwaves, there’s a widespread reluctance to talk about climate change directly. Instead, conversation often pivots to coping strategies and adaptation, neglecting the root causes and mitigation. Talking About Heat, Not Its Cause Society focuses on the discomfort and practicalities of extreme heat, rarely acknowledging climate change as the driver 03:00 . Surrendering to Adaptation Communities and individuals are quick to find ways to adapt—air conditioning, altered routines—while skipping over discussions about how to prevent or stop escalating temperatures 07:03 . Softening of Language in Business Businesses are increasingly using vague terms like “responsible growth” or “sustainability” in place of “climate emergency,” often as a form of avoidance 09:32 . Key Takeaways Socially Organized Denial: Referencing sociologist Kari Norgaard, Emma Berlow describes how society keeps climate conversations abstract and disconnected from daily life and action 06:13 . The Adaptation Leap: There’s been a jump to adaptation solutions at the expense of mitigation…

People in this episode

Host: Emma Burlow

Topics covered

• climate change
• adaptation
• mitigation
• sustainability
• societal denial
• business language

Keywords

• climate
• extreme weather
• heatwaves
• adaptation strategies
• business language
• sustainability
• social denial

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