Ten Fights That Made the Green Movement: 10. Rival Visions
Summary
This episode explores the future of the Green Movement through two rival visions: Zach Polanski’s eco-populism, which links climate action to social justice, and Lord Deben’s market-based approach. Set against a backdrop of political shifts and the 2025 Green Party leadership election, the discussion highlights the struggle to maintain consensus on net zero amidst rising climate fatigue. Host Justin Rowlat examines how environmentalism is evolving from a scientific imperative into a complex political battle over fairness and economic strategy.
Topics discussed
Intro: Glastonbury 2025 and Green Party hustings
Zach Polanski's eco-populism vs traditional views
Lord Deben: Conservative environmentalist and market solutions
Polanski's election victory and anti-sacrifice message
Lord Deben's history and Thatcher's climate stance
The rise and fall of net zero consensus
Political backlash and the fight for net zero
Conclusion: The political challenge of climate action
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