Jason Rissman’s Post

There are many reasons to believe the re-election of Donald Trump will be a major setback to climate progress. His previous record, recent campaign, ties to the fossil fuel industry, and perpetuation of misinformation, like the strange idea that wind turbines kill whales, all suggest we’re in for a radical reversal of America’s climate commitment. We've had many conversations with climate leaders since the election and a different narrative beyond this obvious fear became clear: #Climatechange doesn’t care who is President. Its impacts will be impossible to ignore. Business leadership and global competitiveness are now inextricably linked to navigating the #climatetransition. And, a robust ecosystem of influential actors domestically and abroad makes a complete abandonment of climate action unlikely. On today's episode, we're joined by two people who bring policy expertise at the federal, state, and local levels. Zach Friedman is the Senior Director of Federal Policy at Ceres, Inc., a nonprofit organization that works alongside investors and companies to advocate for sustainability. Caroline Spears is the Founder of Climate Cabinet Action, an organization that helps local candidates become successful climate champions. I found this conversation to be full of nuance and more uplifting than I expected.  Our new reality is sobering, and there’s no denying that we face new challenges. There is hope, however, and it comes with the fortitude and savvy people like Zach and Caroline have already demonstrated. This savvy will require telling different stories about climate, the undeniable business case, and the power of all of us who stay invested. Listen to Invested in Climate, Ep #99 now -- https://lnkd.in/gTf8Q3_b Subscribe to our weekly newsletter -- https://lnkd.in/gRftfG9D Follow us on Instagram -- https://lnkd.in/gds-JFY6 Follow us on X/Twitter -- https://lnkd.in/gZj6d2YS Send feedback & ideas -- https://lnkd.in/gHJf93WU #InvestedInClimate #ClimateAction #ClimateInvesting #ClimateFinance #ClimateWork

The story of the climate movement is full of gains and vision, as well as setbacks and disappointments. This week's U.S. election is the biggest test yet, but hardly the only one of the last 30 years. Despite the ups and downs, this movement is incredibly strong - with millions of people working in it, and trillions of dollars staked on its future. We have so much left to gain in the climate transition. But we also have a lot to lose, and a great deal of work will be needed to stop hard-won progress from being dismantled and broken. One thing is certain: oblivious to all signs that decarbonization is the only route to prosperity, new federal leadership will have a massive recarbonization agenda. This is why we need to declare an end to talking about "voluntary" climate action. Our choices to fund the climate transition are now essential and obligatory. Nothing about this next phase will be easy, but neither is any work for justice and freedom and progress. What we choose to do for the climate in the coming years - as communities, companies, states, nonprofits, and individuals - will be our best acts of resistance, and of hope. https://lnkd.in/ewf_mYta

As we head into this next election, I want to share my current perspective on our national politics as part of my ongoing Purposeful Politics Project. To be honest, I’m pretty certain we can’t depend on our political system as it stands to solve the monumental challenges we face. The system itself is in desperate need of a revamp or redesign. However, that doesn’t mean we should disengage—especially when it comes to the key issue of climate change. While I believe deeper, systemic changes are necessary, I also think it’s critically important that we avoid taking a massive step backward on climate policy. That’s why I’m sharing the following information at such a pivotal moment. The upcoming election presents us with two presidential candidates who hold completely opposing views on climate change.

The stakes have never been higher. As the article from Grist highlights, the outcome of the upcoming election could significantly shape our climate future. This is not just about policy; it's about the very survival of our ecosystems, livelihoods, and health. From hurricanes like Helene and Milton to our everyday weather patterns, climate change is a pressing reality. The decisions made in the political sphere will determine how we tackle these challenges. Will we pave the way for sustainable solutions, or will we see a regression in vital climate policies? Our choice at the ballot box can either accelerate progress or hinder our fight against climate change. It’s crucial for voters to consider the climate implications of their decisions. The future of our planet is inextricably linked to the leaders we elect. Check this out: https://lnkd.in/gUdEhVkW

Personal thoughts on Today’s U.S. Election and how it affects Climate Like many of you, I'm keeping an eye on the news today, waiting for the U.S. #election results to come in. It’s a big day with big implications, especially for us who work on climate action. Whatever the outcome, it’s clear these next four years will set a critical direction for tackling #climatechange in the U.S. and globally. We’ve seen some encouraging steps recently, like the Inflation Reduction Act (#IRA), but today’s election could shift the momentum. A change in leadership might slow down new climate initiatives, even if it doesn’t roll back what’s already been done. And for companies and people working toward #sustainability, that makes it harder to plan ahead. Companies don’t just look at policies for today; they’re thinking long-term and reading the signals coming from the top. Be that as it may - climate change isn’t something that just comes and goes. It’s not a trend. It’s here, it’s worsening, and it’s already reshaping our world—hotter summers, stronger storms, worse droughts, dying coral reefs. Whether we’re talking about building up renewables or adapting to rising risks and physical impacts of a changing climate, the urgency isn’t going anywhere. So while today’s results matter, the climate fight isn’t up for debate. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and we all need to keep pushing forward. And no matter what happens today, the mission to stop climate change and ensure a future worth living in continues. Let’s go!

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗺𝗽: 𝗮 𝗴𝘂𝘁 𝗽𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆 illuminem Voice Joel B Stronberg breaks down what Trump’s return to the White House means for US and global climate action. Climate messaging isn’t cutting through. Despite billion-dollar disasters, record-breaking heat, and collapsing ecosystems, the 2024 election showed voters still prioritise the economy over the environment. Even Gen Z, seen as climate’s strongest ally, stayed home or voted with their wallets. Joel argues the climate community needs a reset. Forget trying to build “climate voters” - it’s time to make climate a core economic issue. Without this shift, the next four years will see US climate policy dismantled while global momentum falters. Read why a complete rethink is now critical: https://lnkd.in/eDEG7kFX #illuminem #climatepolicy #sustainability #uselections

The road to meaningful climate action has often felt challenging and uncertain, but there is still hope. As Mindy Lubber writes: "Political winds shift, policy landscapes change, but the need – no, the demand – for action is as strong as ever." https://lnkd.in/ew-WUDUK Check out our weekly newsletter Business & Society Navigator for more important stories on business and society like this: https://as.pn/bspnavigator

How the US climate agenda can evolve: 1. Reframe solutions as policy to escape systems that are hurting and impoverishing us, like car dependence and dirty energy 2. Increase the number of voters who demand climate leadership 3. Shape the thousands of local/state elections in 2025 and 2026 Great perspective from Nathaniel Stinnett. https://lnkd.in/gPNZmrMG

The truth about climate change denial and obstruction in Congress cannot stay hidden any longer. My new report, "Climate Deniers of the 118th Congress," exposes the alarming reality: 123 elected members of the 118th Congress continue to outright deny the scientific consensus on human-caused climate change. These climate deniers have received a jaw-dropping $52,071,133 in lifetime contributions from the fossil fuel industry. Here’s a look at the top 5 career recipients of fossil fuel money in the Senate and House: Climate change is a clear and present danger, costing Americans billions every year due to extreme weather events. Despite scientific evidence and global warnings, the Inflation Reduction Act—which dedicated historic investments to tackle the climate crisis—faced staunch opposition. Still, further attempts to repeal this crucial legislation jeopardize our progress in combating climate change and job creation—over 300,000 jobs and counting.