Climate Connections
How is global warming shaping our lives? And what can we do about it? We connect the dots, from fossil fuels to extreme weather, clean energy to public health, and more. Join Dr. Anthony Leiserowitz of Yale University for a daily 90-second podcast about climate change, where we confront reality and share inspiring stories of hope.
Episodes
Genetic research could help your favorite beans withstand climate change
Scientists are working to breed drought- and heat-tolerance traits into common beans from tepary beans, which are native to the Sonoran desert in Mexico and the U.S. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/12/24•1m 31s
Extreme weather disrupts education worldwide
Between January 2022 and June 2024, over 400 million students were affected. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/12/24•1m 31s
Students in Illinois get paid to learn skills for jobs in energy efficiency
‘They're starting to see themselves as a part of the solution.’ Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
10/12/24•1m 31s
Some supermarkets are taking a major step to protect the climate. Is yours?
This scorecard shows which companies are reducing pollution from their fridges and freezers. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
09/12/24•1m 31s
Vicious cycle: Wildfires are making climate change worse
As climate change makes wildfires larger and more intense, they’re putting more carbon pollution into the atmosphere. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
06/12/24•1m 31s
Solar development company aims to clean up the dirtiest energy grids
Clearloop is developing solar projects in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana, where renewable projects have been slow to get off the ground. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
05/12/24•1m 31s
Many U.S. households spend more than 15% of their income on energy, research finds
In some cases, people may forgo food or medicine to pay their energy bills. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
04/12/24•1m 31s
Tips for hiking during wildfire season
Plan ahead, have a way to get emergency reports while hiking, and make sure to carry a GPS-enabled device that can call for help. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
03/12/24•1m 31s
Kids in Portland, Oregon, take a ‘bike bus’ to school
They pedal with their parents in a parade of bikes. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
02/12/24•1m 31s
Art project encourages Philly residents to take the bus to city parks
A multimedia art project called ‘Routes to Roots’ aims to connect people to the outdoors without using a car. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/11/24•1m 31s
Climate change poses new problems for Massachusetts cranberry farmers
Warmer temperatures and more periods of drought are making it increasingly difficult to grow and harvest the iconic crop. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
28/11/24•1m 31s
Delicious ways to reduce food waste this Thanksgiving
You can put potato skins, turkey bones, and more to good use. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
27/11/24•1m 31s
Wildfires are forcing hikers off parts of the Pacific Crest Trail
During the 2024 wildfire season, over 600 miles of trail had to be closed. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
26/11/24•1m 31s
‘My life will never be the same.’ Widow speaks out about the dangers of extreme heat
Amy Dishion’s husband died while hiking in Arizona. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
25/11/24•1m 31s
Alberta's trout habitat shrinks as streams warm
Climate change is warming streams in the Canadian province’s mountains. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/11/24•1m 31s
Flooded streets plague Northeast Houston residents
The city’s 2,000-mile system of roadside drainage ditches often fails during storms. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
21/11/24•1m 31s
The first all-electric conference center in the U.S. opens in Ithaca, New York
Heat pumps warm and cool the facility, and its kitchen relies on induction ranges and electric fryers and ovens. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
20/11/24•1m 31s
Solar energy is powering public landscaping in Oak Park, Illinois
Electric tools provide a cleaner and quieter alternative to gas-powered equipment. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
19/11/24•1m 31s
How the Veterans Health Administration is preparing for flood emergencies
The agency has purchased six high-water trucks and extended its telehealth offerings. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
18/11/24•1m 31s
Volunteers unite to defend critical road in Hawaii from erosion
A native plant project aims to help protect Punalu‘u beach and road from rising sea levels. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/11/24•1m 31s
Abandoned golf course now stores stormwater, helps protect homes from flooding
During downpours, ponds collect water that would otherwise run off into streets and homes. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
14/11/24•1m 31s
Why this Maine native is concerned about his state’s lobster fishery
Farther south, warming water has contributed to the collapse of the lobster fishery. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
13/11/24•1m 31s
Ducks delay their migration as the climate warms
Some are migrating along the Atlantic flyway later in the fall – or even spending the winter farther north. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/11/24•1m 31s
Meet the Arkansas farmer trying to adapt to the changing climate
‘Climate change for farmers is more like getting a wound and never letting it heal,’ said Hallie Shoffner. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/11/24•1m 31s
Nova Scotia’s wild blueberry fields face new pressures as the climate changes
The fruits have grown in the area for thousands of years. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
08/11/24•1m 31s
Battery-powered sea glider could make coastal travel more climate-friendly
Vehicles like it could connect cities like New York and Boston. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
07/11/24•1m 31s
Tucson nonprofit hires up to 50 teens a year to plant trees
The program helps increase the city’s tree canopy. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
06/11/24•1m 31s
Climate change made 2023 wildfire conditions in Canada three times as likely, study finds
It also upped the risk in Greece and the Amazon. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
05/11/24•1m 31s
‘It’s tough.’ California fly fisher says trout are struggling as the climate warms
Intensifying droughts and hotter stream temperatures are putting new pressures on the state’s cold-water fish. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
04/11/24•1m 31s
Heat contributed to 47,000 deaths in Europe during summer 2023, study finds
It was one of the hottest summers ever in Europe. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
01/11/24•1m 31s
Vampire bats are moving north as the climate warms
These blood-feeding bats may increase rabies risks to livestock and wildlife in Southern U.S. states. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
31/10/24•1m 31s
Maryland researchers breed apples for a changing climate
Two new varieties can better tolerate hotter, wetter weather. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
30/10/24•1m 31s
Fifth-generation Connecticut orchard invests in 1,500 solar panels
Owner Keith Bishop says he hopes solar panels will help keep the farm running for generations to come. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/10/24•1m 31s
The chemicals in air conditioning units can contribute to global warming
So it’s important to dispose of AC units properly when they die. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
28/10/24•1m 31s
Minnesota man brings solar power and job training to North Minneapolis
Jamez Staples says the energy transition can help lift up his whole community. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
25/10/24•1m 31s
Antarctic glacier the size of Florida more vulnerable to warming than previously thought, experts warn
The Thwaites Glacier is already shrinking by 50 billion tons of ice a year. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
24/10/24•1m 31s
Wind power goes small with microturbines for homes, public parks, and more
A French startup's ‘Aeroleaf’ turbines can produce electricity day and night. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
23/10/24•1m 31s
New Mexico program pays workers to train for clean energy jobs
Many oil and gas workers are eager to transition to new jobs, says the leader of a workers’ rights organization. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/10/24•1m 31s
Vertical solar panels help farmers produce both energy and crops
The orientation of the panels means they can be easily integrated into pastures or croplands. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
21/10/24•1m 31s
What is net metering?
The system allows solar-powered homes to receive credit when energy is sent to the grid. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
18/10/24•1m 31s
Earthen bricks can be used to build wildfire-resistant homes
It’s a modern version of an ancient building technique. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
17/10/24•1m 31s
Dangerous, unregulated cobalt mines boom as the need for batteries grows
Mine workers need more protections, says a University of Houston researcher. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
16/10/24•1m 31s
Owner of eco-friendly home made out of tires shares lessons learned
Jay and Annie Warmke’s property in Appalachian Ohio has become a sustainability education center. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/10/24•1m 31s
Foundation pays Georgia farmers to grow trees on former croplands
The program can help the climate and the farmers’ pocketbooks. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
14/10/24•1m 31s
Puerto Rican lawyer offers free legal assistance to disaster survivors
Jeanne Ortiz-Ortiz lived through Hurricane Maria. She’s now the vice director of the American Bar Association’s Disaster Legal Services program. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/10/24•1m 31s
Landscapes charred by wildfire can become ground zero for floods and mudslides
If you live in a wildfire-prone area, buy flood insurance, experts say. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
10/10/24•1m 31s
Solar leasing can make home solar power more accessible
With leasing, you pay over time rather than upfront. But there are some downsides. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
09/10/24•1m 31s
From waste to watts: How closed landfills can become solar powerhouses
The wide-open spaces can be ideal sites for solar panels. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
08/10/24•1m 31s
Energy efficiency job training provides incarcerated people with new career opportunities
About 25 participants in an Illinois program have been hired in energy efficiency jobs upon their release. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
07/10/24•1m 31s
Current climate policies will lead to about 2.7ºC of global warming by the end of the century
That well exceeds the Paris Agreement goal of 1.5ºC. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
04/10/24•1m 31s
San Francisco visitors can enjoy a free ferry powered by hydrogen
Most ferries rely on diesel to power trips between ports. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
03/10/24•1m 31s
The real reasons mosquitoes bite some people more than others
Spoiler alert: It isn’t because their blood is sweeter. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
02/10/24•1m 31s
Tampa residents turn food waste into energy
They’re using anaerobic digesters that convert kitchen scraps into fertilizer and cooking gas. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
01/10/24•1m 31s
Mosquitoes can now be tracked with an app
Photos uploaded to the app help scientists identify and track these pesky insects. The data is then shared with public health officials. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
30/09/24•1m 31s
Cutting climate pollution could save tens of thousands of lives, study finds
New research links cleaner air to significant health benefits. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
27/09/24•1m 31s
Denied FEMA Assistance? You can appeal
A free online tool, available in both English and Spanish, can help. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
26/09/24•1m 31s
A new financing model could speed up forest thinning projects
The projects can help reduce the risk of intense wildfires. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
25/09/24•1m 31s
Geoscientist David Padgett turns science into a tool for environmental justice
He offers his expertise to communities struggling with pollution and flooding. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
24/09/24•1m 31s
Meet Scott Sklar, a renewable energy enthusiast in Arlington, Virginia
When there’s a power outage, people gather at Sklar’s place. During good weather, they take tours and check out what kids call his ‘Back to the Future’ van. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
23/09/24•1m 31s
Tofu manufacturer turns waste into energy with a biodigester
Island Spring Organics on Vashon Island, Washington, uses soybean pulp and whey to help power its tofu production. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
20/09/24•1m 31s
Hospitals commit to cutting climate pollution from their food supply chain
Over 100 hospitals and medical centers have signed up. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
19/09/24•1m 31s
What to ask when you’re hiring a solar company
It can be hard to know which claims to believe. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
18/09/24•1m 31s
Photos show how climate change is shaping the Louisiana coast
Virginia Hanusik’s new book, ‘Into the Quiet and the Light,’ pairs photos with essays and reflections from community members. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
17/09/24•1m 31s
Old apartment building in Santa Monica transformed into all-electric affordable housing
Rooftop solar plus other upgrades add up to lower bills for residents. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
16/09/24•1m 31s
Wetland project to help protect Palo Alto from flooding
It’s also designed to improve water quality in San Francisco Bay. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
13/09/24•1m 31s
‘King tide days’ help San Rafael, California, residents visualize sea level rise
King tides bring the highest tides of the year. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
12/09/24•1m 31s
Climate change could expand the range of disease-carrying mosquitoes
Longer summers and more rain provide ideal conditions for the insects. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
11/09/24•1m 31s
How a stream restoration project in Indiana is helping to reduce flooding
The Duck Creek Tributary’s newly restored, meandering shape helps reduce the flooding of nearby roads. It’s teeming with wildlife, too. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
10/09/24•1m 31s
A public library became a haven after a flood
In the aftermath of a devastating flood, the library became a lifeline for residents of Spencer, Iowa. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
09/09/24•1m 31s
The quest for climate-resilient cows
Researchers are working to breed varieties that can thrive in temperature extremes. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
06/09/24•1m 31s
Fireflies face ‘one-two punch’ of climate change, habitat loss, and light pollution
Ecologist warns of dwindling numbers as winters warm and droughts increase. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
05/09/24•1m 31s
What to do if your veggie garden floods
Bacteria, sewage, and toxic pollution in floodwaters can contaminate produce. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
04/09/24•1m 31s
Climate change is making seasonal allergies even worse
In some areas, allergy season lasts three weeks longer than it used to. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
03/09/24•1m 31s
Climate change threatens outdoor workers in tropical regions, study finds
Nearly one-third of all hours could become unsafe for heavy outdoor work. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/.
02/09/24•1m 31s
Canadian city invites neighbors to tackle climate change together
The 'Neighbouring for Climate' Toolkit is designed to help Edmonton residents prepare for disasters. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
30/08/24•1m 31s
Virtual reality offers a glimpse of future climate impacts
Santa Cruz, California, a VR film shows a 360-degree look at beaches and streets disappearing as sea levels rise. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/08/24•1m 31s
As wildfires intensify, the taxpayer burden is growing
But upfront investments in protecting communities from fires could reduce those costs, one watchdog says. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
28/08/24•1m 31s
Home repair program helps keep longtime Jacksonville, Florida, residents in place
The program has put more than a million dollars toward major home repairs and energy-efficient retrofits. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
27/08/24•1m 31s
Tree-planting project aims to identify climate-resilient trees
Volunteers in St. Paul, Minnesota, are helping scientists study which trees will thrive as the climate warms. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
26/08/24•1m 31s
Invasive insect could accelerate release of climate pollution from forests
The hemlock woolly adelgid is a major threat to hemlock trees. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
23/08/24•1m 31s
Fantasy role-playing games help young people engage with climate change
The games can enable them to imagine how they can be part of the solution. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/08/24•1m 31s
Free online tool kit can help small businesses prepare for climate change
Many are vulnerable to floods and other forms of increasingly extreme weather. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
21/08/24•1m 31s
How open spaces can save lives during wildfires
Fields, pastures, and orchards can help prevent the spread of deadly fires. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
20/08/24•1m 31s
How NASA’s satellites can track wildfires
The imagery and data help agencies provide real-time safety alerts. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
19/08/24•1m 31s
Climate change threatens the already endangered Karner blue butterfly
Karner blue caterpillars have started to hatch earlier, before the only plant that they eat emerges in spring. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
16/08/24•1m 31s
Solar developer says renewable energy could transform Native communities
Robert Blake of the Red Lake Nation is teaching tribal members about the potential benefits. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/08/24•1m 31s
Government flood maps are often outdated
So residents of cities in the South are documenting on-the-ground flooding in their communities – the first step in advocating for solutions. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
14/08/24•1m 31s
Maryland rabbi calls on people to be good ancestors to future generations
He draws on Jewish teachings to advocate for climate action. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
13/08/24•1m 31s
Art meets science in sweeping U.S. climate report
The online gallery’s paintings, drawings, and beadwork highlight how climate change is affecting the U.S. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/08/24•1m 31s
High temperatures can cause train tracks to buckle and kink
And other than slowing down trains during heat waves, the solutions are limited. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
09/08/24•1m 31s
California moves to protect indoor workers from deadly heat
Carwashes, warehouses, and other indoor workplaces lacking AC can get brutally hot in the summer. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
08/08/24•1m 31s
The event that helps this Indigenous Pacific Islander feel less alone
Audrey-Rose Sevaaetasi has sometimes felt that few people could relate to her experience of climate change in American Samoa. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
07/08/24•1m 31s
New Jersey launches heat awareness campaign as extreme weather intensifies
Heat is the deadliest weather hazard, but many Garden State residents underestimate the risks. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
06/08/24•1m 31s
Pilot project in New York City to offer quick cash grants after major floods
The goal is to speed up relief for victims. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
05/08/24•1m 31s
Why you need a go bag
And a few things that should go in it. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
02/08/24•1m 31s
Advances in oil and gas drilling technology could boost geothermal energy
The same tech used in the oil and gas shale boom could help reduce the cost of drilling for clean, renewable geothermal. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
01/08/24•1m 31s
Long-term whitebark pine restoration project aims to save the trees for future generations
The Western species has been hard-hit by wildfires, mountain pine beetles, and blister rust. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
31/07/24•1m 31s
An Alaskan community’s slow and costly move to higher ground
Melting permafrost and extreme erosion are forcing Newtok residents to relocate. It’s a long, difficult process. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
30/07/24•1m 31s
Your medications may increase your risk of heat-related illnesses
Certain meds can cause dehydration or impede the body’s ability to sweat. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/07/24•1m 31s
How to protect your pets during a heat wave
On hot days, keep dogs and cats in cooler areas with air conditioning or shade — and watch them for signs of distress. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
26/07/24•1m 31s
