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
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
Upstate New York development features fossil-fuel-free homes
Ultraefficient houses in the Catskill Project are powered by solar panels. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
25/07/24•1m 31s
Bridge helps Alaska town cope with climate change
During winter, residents used to leave town by driving across a frozen lake. But warming temperatures left the lake ice less dependable. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
24/07/24•1m 31s
Tucson, Arizona, bets on buses
With free rides and bus stop improvements, the city hopes to turn out more ridership and reduce traffic pollution. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
23/07/24•1m 31s
Researchers test whether peanuts and cotton could grow in a warmer Midwest
The crops have historically grown farther South. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/07/24•1m 31s
How camping skills can help prepare you for weather disasters
Many skills used while camping can help you stay safe during emergencies. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
19/07/24•1m 31s
From flood zones to green zones
In Charlotte, North Carolina, flood-prone apartments were converted into a wetland habitat that now helps protect the community from flooding. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
18/07/24•1m 31s
The promise and potential pitfalls of locking carbon in soil
Farmers can help store planet-warming pollution in the ground. But some measures of the benefits may provide misleading results, a researcher says. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
17/07/24•1m 31s
Beavers can help reduce damage caused by wildfires
The animals create wetlands that can reduce drying and burning. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
16/07/24•1m 31s
The climate benefits of mangroves
Their roots and branches help break up waves and reduce flooding in coastal communities. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/07/24•1m 31s
Got climate anxiety? Taking action can be the right medicine.
“Being part of the solution is psychologically empowering,” says therapist Leslie Davenport. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/07/24•1m 31s
San Diego neighborhood wins protections from new industrial development
Residents of Barrio Logan have been fighting for cleaner air for decades. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/07/24•1m 31s
Eelgrass makes a comeback along the Virginia coast
These spindly plants provide vital habitat for marine life, reduce coastal erosion, and absorb carbon pollution. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
10/07/24•1m 31s
Seattle summers are no longer reliably mild
Many locals don’t have AC, so heat waves can be deadly. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
09/07/24•1m 31s
Low-income residents buy into solar project at Minneapolis school
A solar garden at North High School provides electricity to the school, the city, and residential subscribers. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
08/07/24•1m 31s
Sweltering summer days put Arizonans at risk of dangerous burns
One burn center treated 85 people for contact burns in 2022 — and seven died from their injuries. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
05/07/24•1m 31s
New York regulations encourage the use of lower-emissions concrete
Concrete is one of the biggest sources of planet-warming carbon pollution. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
04/07/24•1m 31s
How cover crops are helping a Kansas farmer adapt to climate change
At Lucinda Stuenkel’s farm, spring oats and peas are enriching her soil and helping it retain more moisture. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
03/07/24•1m 31s
A victory for environmental justice in Minnesota
A recently passed state law aims to limit new pollution in communities already struggling with a disproportionate burden. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
02/07/24•1m 31s
Could giant cylindrical sails propel the cargo ships of the future?
It’s just one idea among many for harnessing the wind to help ships save fuel. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
01/07/24•1m 31s
Fulani herders struggle as water stress forces longer journeys in the Sahel
The Fulani people of Burkina Faso are cattle herders who move their animals seasonally to find good pastures. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
28/06/24•1m 31s
Action plan outlines ways to help protect children from climate hazards
It calls for more air quality monitoring near schools, among other potential actions. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
27/06/24•1m 31s
A tribal community’s struggle against erosion, rising tides, and a devastating storm
The area inhabited by the Pointe-aux-Chienes tribal community looked like a war zone after Hurricane Ida in 2021. But residents are determined to stay put. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
26/06/24•1m 31s
Florida art museum helps visitors connect with the reality of climate change
Pérez Art Museum Miami overlooks Biscayne Bay, where sea levels are rising fast. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
25/06/24•1m 31s
What do the different hurricane categories mean?
No matter the category, it’s important to take hurricanes seriously. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
24/06/24•1m 31s
Nonprofit helps bring solar to the Puerto Rican island of Vieques
Solar panels help communities maintain power even after destructive tropical storms and hurricanes. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
21/06/24•1m 31s
Mountaintop coal mine in Kentucky to become a solar farm
The solar farm will produce enough electricity to power over half a million homes each year. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
20/06/24•1m 31s
Cancer patients can face treatment disruptions during extreme weather
Chemotherapy and radiation require frequent doctor’s visits, which can get interrupted when disaster strikes. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
19/06/24•1m 31s
Fellowship helps doctors and nurses take action on climate change
Fellows have pushed their hospitals to reduce pollution, planted trees to reduce urban heat, and developed community organizing and communication skills. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
18/06/24•1m 31s
FEMA to distribute $1 billion to underserved, climate-vulnerable communities
The funds will be used for updating sewer systems, managing wildfire-prone forests, and other resilience projects. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
17/06/24•1m 31s
‘We have an obligation’: Grandparents take action to help protect their grandkids’ future
The Slotes made climate-friendly updates to their home, adding insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and more. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
14/06/24•1m 31s
Four ways to protect your home from floods
Doing this could save you money in the long run. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
13/06/24•1m 31s
Maine college builds climate-friendly dorm out of wood
The energy-efficient building will soon sport solar panels. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/06/24•1m 31s
California students pressure state to divest teacher pension funds from fossil fuels
They are pushing for legislation that would move billions out of the fossil fuel industry. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/06/24•1m 31s
Atlanta rebate program helps low-income residents buy e-bikes
Participants can get up to $2,000 off. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
10/06/24•1m 31s
Most planes are powered by fossil fuels. That could change
An alternative known as sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, could one day cut the climate impact of flying. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
07/06/24•1m 31s
A meteorologist’s warning: Hurricanes are intensifying more quickly now
Miami meteorologist John Morales wants people to prepare for storms that get dangerous, fast. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
06/06/24•1m 31s
Partnership helps Chicagoans plant trees in underserved neighborhoods
Decades of disinvestment have left many low-income communities of color with little tree cover. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
05/06/24•1m 31s
Paying attention to heat alerts could save your life
Extreme heat can be dangerous, so it’s important to plan ahead when a heat wave is coming. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
04/06/24•1m 31s
Miami Beach will soon have an underwater sculpture park
The Reefline’s creators hope the park will provide new habitat and get people thinking about the effects of climate change on the ocean. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
03/06/24•1m 31s
8-year-old spurs his dad to climate action
Challenged by their son to do something about climate change, Fred Carter and his wife created the Black Oaks Center for Sustainable Renewable Living. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
31/05/24•1m 31s
Family farmers make climate-friendly vodka and whiskey
The Silver Tree Beer and Spirits has committed to growing grain sustainably — and the family has launched an initiative to get others in the industry to do the same. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
30/05/24•1m 31s
How to make vegan and vegetarian meals sound mouthwatering
Step one: Avoid the word ‘meatless.’ Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/05/24•1m 31s
Art therapy can ease climate-related anxiety
And you don’t have to be a professional artist to try it. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
28/05/24•1m 31s
Sunshades, vines, and trees can help keep playgrounds cool
A North Carolina State University research group designs play areas where kids can stay comfortable as temperatures rise. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
27/05/24•1m 31s
‘Not alone, but with others.’ Pastor helps faith leaders speak up on climate change
Pastor Neddy Astudillo says many faith leaders feel called to do something about the crisis. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
24/05/24•1m 31s
Man converts his home to all-electric dream house
Eric Laine once spent about $500 on propane in just one month. Now that’s a thing of the past. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
23/05/24•1m 31s
Florida school district offers kids a cleaner ride to school
Miami-Dade County recently purchased 20 electric school buses and has committed to buying 80 more. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/05/24•1m 31s
The largely untapped energy source beneath our feet
Recent advances in technology could boost geothermal energy’s prospects. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
21/05/24•1m 31s
How Miami-Dade County is protecting public housing residents from dangerous heat waves
For one thing, the county installed 1,700 AC units in public housing last year. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
20/05/24•1m 31s
Biloxi, Mississippi, is losing a foot of salt marsh shoreline a year
So Mississippi State University and Keesler Air Force Base are working on a project to shield a 2.5-mile stretch of the city from erosion. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
17/05/24•1m 31s
Storms, rising seas are growing threats to Portsmouth Village in North Carolina
‘There can be standing water in the village nearly any day of the year.’ Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
16/05/24•1m 31s
Estuaries provide more than a billion dollars in environmental benefits, research shows
They serve as flood barriers and store climate-warming carbon pollution. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/05/24•1m 31s
West Virginia man works to boost solar industry in his home state
Solar Holler founder Dan Conant wants to create new career paths for young West Virginians. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
14/05/24•1m 31s
Brook trout are in trouble in Adirondacks lakes
Climate change is squeezing the habitat of this colorful fish. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
13/05/24•1m 31s
In praise of shade trees
Urban areas with trees can be as much as 15 degrees cooler Fahrenheit than areas with less foliage. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
10/05/24•1m 31s
Field workers, farm owners, and buyers band together to protect workers from heat
Heat-related illnesses are a growing risk as the climate warms. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
09/05/24•1m 31s
Why switching to an EV is good for the climate
Over its lifetime, an electric vehicle produces much less climate-warming pollution than a similar gas-powered car. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
08/05/24•1m 31s
Prescribed burning can reduce wildfire damage
Low-intensity fires help clear out dead wood and vegetation, reducing the fuel available when a wildfire comes along. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
07/05/24•1m 31s
A chef’s kiss for induction stoves
Induction stoves are one chef’s preferred way to serve up delicious food. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
06/05/24•1m 31s
Startup mimics nature to produce zero-carbon cement
Prometheus Materials is creating a cement made from algae. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
03/05/24•1m 31s
Mom fights air pollution in North Denver
Denver has some of the highest levels of ground-level ozone in the U.S. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
02/05/24•1m 31s
Climate change threatens Africa’s rhinos
Extreme heat, poaching, and habitat loss are pushing the animals closer to extinction. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
01/05/24•1m 31s
Former school gets new life as an energy-efficient shopping center
Loan programs in 30 states are helping owners revitalize old, inefficient buildings. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
30/04/24•1m 31s
Alaska Native community experiments with growing food above the Arctic Circle
Climate change is making some traditional foods harder to find, so community members are looking to new ways to increase food security. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/04/24•1m 31s
Some anglers say Rhode Island’s Block Island wind farm has improved fishing
The bases of the turbines attract fish, survey respondents reported. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
26/04/24•1m 31s
‘Just do it!’ Wisconsin couple built a net zero home
It’s equipped with electric appliances, tight insulation, and 41 solar panels. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
25/04/24•1m 31s
What are fuel cell EVs?
They have several advantages over battery-powered EVs for trucking. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
24/04/24•1m 31s
44% of Latinos live in U.S. counties with a high flood risk
Compared to just 35% of non-Latinos. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
23/04/24•1m 31s
What are virtual power plants?
They could help utilities balance electricity supply and demand as more renewables join the grid. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/04/24•1m 31s
A third of U.S. adults are interested in cutting back on meat, report finds
Health and cost are the driving motivations, but plant-rich meals can also help the climate. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
19/04/24•1m 31s
Exchange program make EV ownership more affordable for low-income Colorado residents
The program offers $6,000 rebates for new electric vehicles to qualifying participants. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
18/04/24•1m 31s
What is a passive house?
These ultra-efficient homes use up to 90% less energy for heating and cooling than conventional homes. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
17/04/24•1m 31s
Schools in coal country are going solar
A project in Wayne County, West Virginia, will save the district enough money to pay for three teachers’ salaries. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
16/04/24•1m 31s
How expectant parents can prepare for extreme weather
If extreme weather strikes during labor or soon after you give birth, you’ll need some backup options. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/04/24•1m 31s
Solar canopy over Denver school parking lot will provide energy to low-income families
Some families are expected to save up to $700 a year on their electricity bills. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/04/24•1m 31s
Industry has a huge carbon footprint. This technology could help
A new industrial-strength heat pump boiler uses electricity to generate the high-temperature steam needed to manufacture many products. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/04/24•1m 31s
How to prepare your finances for an extreme weather disaster
Taking these steps can help make your financial recovery smoother if the worst happens. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
10/04/24•1m 31s
Retired teachers return to Colorado classrooms to teach students about climate change
They’re helping students take action in their communities. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
09/04/24•1m 31s
Group leads tree plantings in deforestation-wracked Ghana
Cocoa farming and illegal gold mining are driving the rapid destruction of the country’s forests. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
08/04/24•1m 31s
Want a climate-friendly home? You might need a new breaker box
Before you start swapping your old, fossil-fuel-powered appliances for clean, electric versions, you’ll likely want to install a 200-amp electrical panel. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
05/04/24•1m 31s
A nemesis of clams is thriving as Maine’s waters warm
Populations of invasive green crabs — which eat clams — have exploded. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
04/04/24•1m 31s
Florida’s tiny ‘fairy tale’ deer are losing habitat as seas rise
So the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working to restore habitat on higher ground. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
03/04/24•1m 31s
A blizzard put a hyper-efficient home to the test. It passed
‘I was sitting in my living room in a T-shirt, and outside it was negative 40 windchill.’ Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
02/04/24•1m 31s
Colorado farmer finds success with drought-resilient millet
The crunchy grain could gain popularity as the climate warms. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
01/04/24•1m 31s
Group to monitor air pollution in 12 U.S. cities with large Hispanic populations
The project will share real-time data with community members. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
29/03/24•1m 31s
A growing number of homeowners face repeat flooding
People need access to funding to make their homes more resilient rather than just rebuilding, one analyst says. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
28/03/24•1m 31s
After a hurricane or wildfire, communities can be overwhelmed by debris
And some of it’s hazardous. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
27/03/24•1m 31s
The plastics industry’s carbon footprint has doubled in the past few decades
Making plastics from algae or plant material instead of fossil fuels could help. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
26/03/24•1m 31s
What is solar thermal?
A Minnesota group is using the underdog technology to turn sunlight into heat. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
25/03/24•1m 31s
Wind farm radar system reduces nighttime light pollution in Iowa
The system turns on flashing warning lights only when a plane is nearby. Otherwise, they stay dark. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
22/03/24•1m 31s
‘People were scared.’ How a maternal care nonprofit stepped up for families after Maui's wildfires
The organization helped people who were dealing with the aftermath of the fires while also preparing to go into labor or caring for a newborn. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
21/03/24•1m 31s
Do wind farms hurt home values? When they do, it’s usually temporary
After a wind farm’s construction, home values typically bounced back within about four years, a recent study found. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
20/03/24•1m 31s
Snowmobiles don’t have to be noisy and polluting
A New Mexico ski valley resort is investing in electric snowmobiles. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
19/03/24•1m 31s
How a snowmobile tour company is getting ready for a future with less snow
Snow and ice conditions have gotten less reliable in the Charlevoix region near Quebec City. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
18/03/24•1m 31s
Which actions benefit the climate the most? This tool can show you
The online tool called En-ROADS helps communities understand which policies will help the most. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
15/03/24•1m 31s
Sheep are living their best life at Susquehanna University
They’re eating the grass and weeds that grow around the Pennsylvania college’s solar array. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
14/03/24•1m 31s
Archaeological sites in North Carolina under threat from sea level rise and storms
The state’s Hammocks Beach State Park includes areas that have been used by humans for more than 2,000 years. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
13/03/24•1m 31s
Volcanoes emit carbon dioxide, but not nearly as much as humans
Humanity produces an amount roughly equivalent to the eruption of Mount St. Helens every 2.5 hours. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
12/03/24•1m 31s
Why more CO2 could be bad news for crops
Carbon dioxide can boost photosynthesis, but that benefit can be outweighed by an increased risk of damage from extreme weather. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
11/03/24•1m 31s