PDF Summary:Climate Crisis and the Global Green New Deal, by Noam Chomsky and Robert Pollin

Humanity faces an existential environmental crisis that threatens civilization as we know it. In Climate Crisis and the Global Green New Deal, Noam Chomsky and Robert Pollin analyze the drivers of climate change and evaluate pathways to mitigate impending catastrophe.

The authors argue that the pursuit of profit under capitalism fuels the climate crisis yet meaningful action is hindered by powerful corporate interests, political divisions, and an inability to confront long-term consequences. They propose a worldwide Green New Deal as a viable solution, outlining specific policies and investments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 while prioritizing a fair transition for workers and communities reliant on fossil fuels.

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• Engage with local small business owners to learn about their experiences with market regulations. Ask them how changes in regulations have affected their business operations, such as compliance costs or market competition. This direct insight can provide a nuanced view of the regulatory landscape's impact on businesses.
• Opt for a personal carbon offset subscription service to counteract your carbon footprint. These services calculate your monthly carbon emissions based on your lifestyle choices, such as travel, energy consumption, and diet, and then invest your subscription fee in projects that reduce carbon emissions, like reforestation or renewable energy projects. This is a way to take personal responsibility for your carbon footprint, akin to a self-imposed carbon tax.
• Opt for energy-efficient appliances when it's time for replacements in your home. Look for the Energy Star label or other certifications that indicate lower energy consumption. This not only helps in reducing your personal contribution to global warming but can also lower your electricity bills. For instance, replacing an old refrigerator with an energy-efficient model can save you money and reduce energy use.

Profit-Driven Interests Resist Survival-Essential Changes

Chomsky emphasizes that the dominance of profit-driven interests within today's economy presents a significant obstacle to combating climate change, resulting in a disconnect between scientific knowledge and actionable policy. He argues that this pervasive influence of profit-oriented corporations hinders the implementation of policies necessary to address the ecological crisis, even when those policies are widely understood to be vital for humanity’s survival.

Chomsky cites CEO Jamie Dimon to highlight this idea. While likely aware of the gravity of climate change personally, Dimon’s professional actions have contradicted this understanding. As the leader of one of the largest financial institutions in the world, Dimon has allocated significant capital toward advancing fossil fuels, such as Canadian tar sands, a highly environmentally destructive source of oil. Chomsky argues that this discrepancy between Dimon’s personal knowledge and professional decisions is emblematic of the systemic factors in capitalism that prioritize profit over sustainability. He extends this critique to the media landscape, where publications celebrate the US "energy self-sufficiency" achieved through fracking, while largely ignoring the long-term environmental consequences of such practices. This pervasive focus on short-term economic gains, at the expense of long-term environmental concerns, illustrates how the dominant capitalist system prioritizes immediate profits over the future of the planet and its inhabitants, creating an institutional obstacle to addressing the environmental emergency.

Context

• Large corporations may resist disruptive innovations that threaten their existing business models, slowing the adoption of cleaner technologies.
• Translating scientific findings into policy involves navigating political, economic, and social landscapes. Policymakers must balance scientific recommendations with economic interests, political pressures, and public opinion, which can delay or dilute effective action.
• Corporations may engage in greenwashing, promoting a misleading image of environmental responsibility while continuing practices that harm the environment.
• Media outlets can shape public perception by focusing on economic achievements like energy independence without equally highlighting the environmental costs. This can lead to a skewed understanding of the true impact of energy policies.
• Efforts to regulate or limit tar sands extraction face challenges from powerful industry lobbyists and political interests that prioritize economic growth and energy security over environmental protection.
• Publicly traded companies are often under pressure from shareholders to deliver quarterly profits, which can discourage investments in sustainable practices that may not yield immediate financial returns.
• Fracking has contributed to lower energy prices, job creation, and increased energy independence for countries that utilize this method. It has been a major factor in the U.S. achieving energy self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on foreign oil imports.
• Capitalism thrives on consumerism, which can drive unsustainable resource consumption. The constant push for new products and services can lead to overexploitation of natural resources, contributing to environmental degradation.

Alternative Systems May Be Necessary to Address Climate Change

Eliminating Capitalism Won't Solve Climate Crisis

Chomsky argues that while aspects intrinsic to capitalism contribute to the unchecked devastation of nature, advocating for a complete dismantling of the capitalist system within the short timeframe necessary to address climate change is impractical. He acknowledges the necessity of immediate action to avert climate catastrophe, a task requiring significant national and international effort that can't be achieved through a simultaneous revolution to overturn capitalism.

Chomsky suggests a more pragmatic approach, focusing on immediate actions that can both mitigate environmental crises and lay the groundwork for a more just and sustainable future society. He points to historical examples like initiatives for employee ownership and co-ops, coordinated by the Next System Project under Gar Alperovitz, that promote and cultivate alternative economic models within the existing system. Inspired by anarchist philosopher Mikhail Bakunin, this project exemplifies the approach of developing the framework for a new society inside the current one. Chomsky encourages the pursuit of such opportunities, arguing for a dual approach that allows for addressing the immediate challenges posed by the ecological crisis while simultaneously fostering the seeds of a more equitable and sustainable society for the future.

Context

• Achieving consensus for dismantling capitalism on a global scale is politically challenging, given the diverse economic and political interests of different countries.
• Frameworks like the Paris Agreement are crucial for setting targets and holding countries accountable, emphasizing the need for international consensus and commitment.
• Local initiatives and grassroots movements can play a pivotal role in driving change by advocating for sustainable practices, influencing policy, and raising awareness about environmental issues.
• These models often include concepts like worker cooperatives, community land trusts, and public banking. They aim to redistribute power and resources more equitably, emphasizing local control and sustainable practices.
• The dual approach not only addresses environmental sustainability but also incorporates social justice, recognizing that ecological solutions must also tackle issues of inequality and access to resources.
• Implementing these models often requires supportive policies, such as tax incentives for cooperatives or legal frameworks that facilitate employee ownership transitions.
• Transitioning to a sustainable economy often involves hybrid models that incorporate elements of both capitalism and socialism, such as social enterprises and public-private partnerships, which can drive innovation and investment in green technologies.

Reforming Capitalism: Reducing Emissions and Enhancing Society With an Eco-Friendly New Deal

Chomsky and Pollin advocate for an international Green New Deal as a viable path for reforming capitalism and mitigating the climate crisis, arguing that it offers a practical solution that can both address environmental concerns and improve social equity. They stress that a properly implemented Green New Deal has the potential to create a more just and sustainable society, while simultaneously addressing the climate crisis through significant investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and a just transition for workers in fossil fuel industries.

Drawing inspiration from the success of the US mobilization during the Second World War, the authors believe that a similar level of national and international commitment can be achieved to address the climate crisis. They highlight the historical precedent of government taking control of crucial sectors of the economy during wartime, suggesting that a similar strategy can be employed to shift to a more sustainable economy. Chomsky cites the example of the US government's virtual nationalization of the auto industry during the Great Recession in 2008, arguing that this action created an opportunity to reorient production towards more sustainable models, such as mass transportation, which could have simultaneously addressed both the economic crisis and the environmental crisis. He believes that these kinds of opportunities, even in smaller forms, constantly arise. Chomsky argues that by embracing a Green New Deal framework, governments can effectively utilize their power to drive a shift towards a sustainable future, both for the planet and its people.

Practical Tips

• Opt for a plant-based day each week to contribute to a more sustainable food system. Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, so by reducing meat consumption, you're helping to lower demand and support a shift towards more sustainable agriculture practices. Share recipes and ideas with friends or on social media to encourage others to join in.
• Pledge a personal 'Climate Mobilization Day' each month where you focus solely on climate-positive activities. This could include making energy-efficient upgrades to your home, volunteering for environmental clean-ups, or even writing to your representatives about climate policy. By dedicating a full day regularly, you create a routine that emphasizes the urgency and commitment needed to tackle the climate crisis.
• Engage in community-based bartering or exchange systems to reduce reliance on large-scale production and promote local sustainability. This could involve setting up or joining a local exchange where goods and services are traded without money, fostering a more sustainable local economy and reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation of goods.
• Advocate for local government investment in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, such as charging stations, by writing to your city council or participating in town hall meetings. By pushing for policies that support sustainable transportation, you help create an environment where eco-friendly vehicles are more viable, encouraging manufacturers to prioritize these models.

Preparing for a Worldwide Environmental Recovery

Green New Deal Must Achieve Significant Emission Cuts by 2050 to Limit Warming

Investing 2.5% of Global GDP Each Year in Efficient and Renewable Energy Can Achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2050

The foundation of Pollin's worldwide ecological plan proposal is a comprehensive strategy for attaining net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, aligned with IPCC targets. He emphasizes that achieving this ambitious goal requires global commitment and significant new investments across every sector and region. Pollin believes that through a combination of substantial enhancements to energy efficiency standards and a significant expansion of clean renewable energy sources, mainly solar and wind power, the world can achieve a zero-emission energy system without sacrificing economic growth or well-being.

The heart of this proposal is a call for an average annual investment of 2.5% of global GDP in clean energy initiatives, equating to roughly $2.6 trillion dollars in 2024, the first year. Pollin envisions this investment being split equally between governmental and private sectors, emphasizing the critical role of government in not only funding initiatives but also in creating a favorable market environment for private capital in the sustainable energy sector. He argues that this ambitious project, while requiring substantial upfront costs, will ultimately decrease energy expenses for consumers due to increasing efficiencies in energy use and the decreasing price of renewable technologies. Pollin believes that the initial investment will be completely offset by long-term savings in energy costs, demonstrating the economic feasibility of the Global Green New Deal plan.

Context

• Achieving net zero emissions means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with the amount removed from the atmosphere. This involves reducing emissions and enhancing carbon sinks like forests.
• The plan suggests that economic growth can be maintained or even enhanced through the transition to renewable energy, as it creates jobs, reduces energy costs, and fosters technological advancements.
• Wind energy is generated by converting wind currents into electricity using wind turbines. Expanding wind power requires the development of both onshore and offshore wind farms, which can provide a significant portion of renewable energy needs.
• The investment strategy is designed to be inclusive of both developed and developing nations, recognizing that global cooperation and equitable distribution of resources are essential for addressing climate change effectively.
• The focus on 2024 as the starting year for this investment aligns with the urgency of climate action, as scientists and policymakers emphasize the need for immediate and sustained efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
• These collaborations can leverage the strengths of both sectors, combining public oversight and private sector efficiency to implement large-scale projects effectively.
• Governments can engage in international agreements and collaborations to standardize regulations and share best practices, making it easier for private companies to operate across borders in the renewable energy sector.
• Reducing carbon emissions and pollution can lead to significant savings in healthcare costs and environmental restoration. Cleaner air and water result in fewer health issues, which translates to lower public health expenditures.

Investment Program Funded by Public & Private Sources: Carbon Taxes, Military Budget Reallocations, Environmentally Focused Bonds

Pollin outlines a detailed financing framework for the Worldwide Green New Deal, emphasizing the responsibility of wealthier nations to finance a project essential to the planet's health. His proposal incorporates a diverse range of funding sources, encompassing public and private avenues, designed to ensure adequate financial support for renewable energy projects while mitigating potential negative impacts on lower-income communities. The strategy emphasizes the necessity of a collaborative approach that leverages existing resources from various sectors, demonstrating that shifting to a sustainable future is both economically and politically feasible.

Pollin identifies four major public funding sources: first, a tax on carbon, with a substantial portion of the revenue being rebated to consumers to counteract the rise in fossil fuel prices; second, a redirection of funds from military budgets, arguing that climate change presents a far greater threat to national security than traditional military threats; third, the issuance of Green Bonds by central banks like the Fed and the ECB, leveraging their capacity to create capital for public investment; and fourth, the elimination of fossil fuel subsidies, with a portion of the savings directed towards clean energy initiatives. Pollin believes this multifaceted approach will generate adequate public funding for the plan while ensuring a fair shift for communities and workers that currently rely on fossil fuels.

Practical Tips

• Attend local business networking events to connect with potential private investors who might be interested in funding your initiatives. Networking can open doors to angel investors or venture capitalists looking for new opportunities. Prepare a concise pitch that clearly outlines your project's value proposition and how it aligns with their investment interests.
• Advocate for inclusive financing options for renewable energy installations in your area. Inclusive financing, also known as on-bill financing, allows residents to pay for energy improvements through their utility bill and ensures that the cost savings from the improvements are greater than the monthly payment. This can make renewable energy upgrades more accessible to lower-income households without upfront costs.
• Create a 'skill swap' meet-up in your community to exchange knowledge and foster intersectoral relationships. Organize a casual event where people from various professions and backgrounds can teach each other short, practical skills or knowledge sessions. For instance, a local farmer could explain sustainable farming practices, while a tech enthusiast might teach basic computer skills. This exchange can lead to a better understanding of how different skills and sectors can contribute to a sustainable future.
• Start a small-scale composting project at home to reduce your personal carbon footprint. By composting organic waste, you're preventing methane emissions from landfills and creating nutrient-rich soil that can be used to grow plants, which in turn capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. You can begin with a simple countertop compost bin and use the compost for houseplants or a garden.
• Educate yourself on the defense budget and climate change by subscribing to a newsletter from a think tank or non-profit organization that analyzes government spending and environmental issues. Use this information to make informed decisions about where to cast your vote during elections, supporting candidates and policies that align with the idea of funding climate change initiatives over military expansion.
• Create a social media campaign using infographics and short videos to highlight successful projects funded by public money. This visual approach can make the abstract concept of public funding more tangible and relatable, showing real-world examples of how such funding has positively impacted communities.

Green New Deal Must Prioritize Fair Worker Transitions

Crucial Strategies for Transitioning Workers and Communities Dependent on Fossil Fuels

The authors recognize the significant social and economic challenges associated with a rapid transition to an economy based on clean energy, particularly for those whose livelihoods are directly tied to the fossil fuel sector. They emphasize that the international Green New Deal must prioritize an equitable transition for these people and communities, ensuring the shift towards a sustainable future doesn't result in widespread unemployment and social disruption. The authors believe that a successful transition requires robust policies that provide financial assistance, retraining opportunities, and community investment to support those affected by the decline of the fossil fuel sector.

Pollin outlines a set of essential policies for an equitable transition. He proposes providing displaced workers with income, training, and relocation aid; establishing guarantees for pensions of workers in affected industries; and directing investments in communities heavily dependent on fossil fuels to create new opportunities through repurposing land and developing industries based on renewable energy. To illustrate the potential for this approach, Pollin points to the success of Germany's Ruhr Valley, a region traditionally reliant on the coal, steel, and chemical sectors, that has successfully transitioned to a hub for clean energy. He notes that such initiatives not only generate fresh employment opportunities but also help revitalize communities facing economic hardship due to the decline of traditional industries, demonstrating that a just transition can be achieved through a proactive and comprehensive approach.

Practical Tips

• You can support equitable transition by choosing to buy products and services from companies that are known for their fair labor practices and commitment to sustainable operations. By doing so, you're voting with your wallet for a more equitable economy. For example, look for certifications like Fair Trade or B Corp that indicate a company's dedication to social and environmental standards.
• Consider enrolling in an online course related to renewable energy or sustainability to better understand the sector's opportunities and challenges. This knowledge can help you advocate for policies or initiatives that support workers' transition. You don't need to become an expert; even a basic course can equip you with enough information to speak knowledgeably on the subject.
• Advocate for policies that benefit displaced workers by writing to your local representatives to express your support for such measures. Even if you're not an expert in policy-making, your voice as a constituent can have an impact. Research the current proposals or legislation being considered that align with the aid for displaced workers, and craft a clear, concise message explaining why you believe these policies are important for the well-being of your community. Sharing your perspective can contribute to the broader conversation and potentially influence decision-making.
• You can support local businesses by purchasing their products and services, which contributes to job creation and community vitality. By choosing to shop at local farmers' markets, independent bookstores, and family-owned restaurants, you're investing money back into your neighborhood, which can help stimulate the local economy and encourage the growth of more businesses.

Transitioning to an Eco-Friendly Economy Needs to Create Jobs and Raise Living Standards, Beyond Emissions Reductions

The authors argue that an international Green New Deal should not only concentrate on reducing emissions but also emphasize fostering a more just and equitable society. They believe the transition to an environmentally sustainable economy offers a unique opportunity to address broader social and economic issues, including unemployment, poverty, and inequality, by prioritizing job creation and improving the quality of life for all. A successful Green New Deal will not only tackle the climate crisis but also foster a society that is more inclusive and prosperous for everyone.

Pollin highlights research finding that countries at all levels of development significantly increase jobs by investing in clean energy, compared to keeping existing infrastructure for carbon-based fuels. For example, he cites his research with Shouvik Chakraborty, finding that clean energy investments of 2% of GDP annually for twenty years in India would generate a net increase of 13 million jobs annually. Pollin emphasizes that while new job creation is essential, a successful transition also requires ensuring that these jobs provide decent wages and benefits, advocating further for policies that strengthen labor unions, address employment discrimination, and improve workplace conditions. He emphasizes that the shift to a sustainable economy should not simply create new jobs but should also improve the quality of jobs for everyone.

Practical Tips

• Advocate for green spaces in your community by participating in or initiating a tree-planting project. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, making them a natural ally in emission reduction. Moreover, green spaces can improve the quality of life for all residents, providing a shared resource that enhances both the environment and social equity.
• You can volunteer with local organizations that focus on job training and literacy to directly combat unemployment and poverty in your community. By offering your time to help with resume workshops, literacy programs, or job fairs, you're providing valuable resources to those in need. For example, you might assist in a computer skills workshop that helps individuals learn how to apply for jobs online.
• You can invest in community solar projects if you're unable to install your own solar panels. Community solar allows multiple individuals to benefit from a single, shared solar array, which can be installed on a large, communal space. This not only helps to create jobs in the installation and maintenance of these projects but also promotes the growth of the clean energy sector in your community.
• Encourage your workplace to adopt a transparent salary policy to combat employment discrimination. Start a conversation with your HR department about the benefits of pay transparency, such as increased trust and a more equitable work environment. You could share articles or case studies showing the positive impact of this policy in other organizations.

Challenges to Enacting a Worldwide Green New Deal

Fossil Fuel Interests Resist Profit-Threatening Changes

Pollin acknowledges the tremendous political and financial barriers to implementing a worldwide green new deal, primarily stemming from the massive influence of fossil fuel interests who view the transition as a threat to their profits and power. He argues that these actors will fiercely resist any efforts to eliminate fossil fuels, using their vast resources to lobby governments, manipulate public opinion, and delay the implementation of policies necessary for a successful transition. To overcome this resistance, a powerful and sustained global movement supporting a green policy overhaul is crucial.

Pollin argues that overcoming resistance from the fossil fuel industry requires a combination of strategic and tactical approaches. He proposes strengthening the regulatory capacity of governments to implement and enforce policies that limit fossil fuel use, such as emission limits, clean energy mandates, and taxes on carbon. Simultaneously, a sustained public campaign is crucial to inform and engage citizens, exposing the manipulative tactics of fossil fuel interests and emphasizing the undeniable benefits of a clean energy future. Notably, Pollin underscores the importance of directly addressing the concerns of communities and people globally whose livelihoods depend on fossil fuels, emphasizing the need for just transition policies to alleviate anxieties and build support for an environmentally friendly economic overhaul. The challenge, he believes, lies in creating a broad coalition of stakeholders who recognize the pressing nature of the environmental emergency and the potential for an environmental initiative to create a more equitable and sustainable future.

Practical Tips

• You can encourage stronger regulatory policies by submitting public comments during environmental regulation proposal periods. Government agencies often solicit feedback from the public when proposing new regulations. By expressing your support for stringent controls on fossil fuel use, you help create a record that reflects public demand for such measures. Look for announcements of public comment periods in local newspapers or on government websites, and use the provided guidelines to submit your opinion.
• You can start a social media challenge to spread awareness on a cause you care about by creating a hashtag and encouraging friends to post about it. For example, if you're passionate about reducing plastic waste, start a #PlasticFreeWeek challenge and tag five friends to participate, sharing tips and progress each day.
• You can scrutinize energy bills and question the sources of your power to promote transparency. By contacting your energy provider, ask for detailed information on where your energy comes from and what percentage is sourced from fossil fuels versus renewable sources. This encourages providers to be more forthcoming about their energy mix and can lead to a demand for cleaner energy options.
• Volunteer for a citizen science project that focuses on environmental monitoring or conservation. These projects often need non-experts to collect data on local wildlife, water quality, or pollution levels. Your participation helps build a body of evidence that can support the need for an environmentally friendly economic overhaul, and you'll learn about the practical implications of environmental policies in your area.

Overcoming Divisions for Global Cooperation

The authors recognize the immensity of the challenge in fostering a level of global cooperation necessary for successfully implementing the Green New Deal. They argue that pre-existing national rivalries, unequal access to resources, and varying degrees of dedication to addressing the climate crisis create a complex landscape that requires nuanced negotiation and collaboration. The necessity of a unified front to oppose a worldwide threat clashes with inherent financial and governmental divisions between nations, potentially hindering effective action for a shared cause.

Chomsky highlights the role of wealthy nations, particularly the US, in creating the climate emergency, emphasizing their responsibility to assist developing nations in their efforts to transition to a green economy. He critiques the tendency of powerful countries to attach self-serving conditions to aid, often perpetuating neo-imperialist dynamics that prioritize their own financial and governmental interests over the well-being of recipient countries. The authors suggest that fostering genuine global cooperation requires abandoning these self-serving approaches, embracing a spirit of genuine partnership and mutual benefit. Successful enactment of an international environmental initiative hinges on persuading nations to prioritize collective action for the common benefit, transcending traditional divisions to address a shared existential threat.

Other Perspectives

• National rivalries can sometimes act as a catalyst for positive change, as countries may strive to outperform each other in developing and implementing green technologies, leading to faster innovation and progress.
• A unified front may inadvertently suppress diverse perspectives and innovative solutions that could arise from a more competitive or varied approach to problem-solving.
• Nations often have mechanisms for international cooperation, such as treaties and global organizations, which can help overcome divisions and facilitate collective action.
• The role of the US and other wealthy nations in creating the climate emergency is intertwined with the global demand for goods and services that drive industrial activity and emissions, suggesting shared responsibility across nations.
• Wealthy nations may have limited resources and face domestic challenges that could be exacerbated by diverting funds and attention to assist other countries.
• Self-serving conditions might also align with broader global goals, such as promoting democracy or human rights, which can ultimately benefit the recipient nation in the long term.
• The concept of mutual benefit can be subjective and open to interpretation, potentially leading to disagreements over what constitutes a fair and equitable partnership.
• Historical mistrust between nations can impede the establishment of a cooperative framework, as past grievances and perceived inequalities may influence current negotiations.
• The concept of a shared existential threat may not be universally accepted or recognized, leading to differing levels of urgency and commitment among nations.

Challenges to Enacting a Worldwide Environmental Initiative

Free-Market Ideology and Right-Wing Populism Hinder Climate Action

Neoliberalism Erodes Government, Increases Inequality, and Hinders Climate Action

The authors posit that the dominance of neoliberal ideology presents a significant barrier to effective climate action, arguing that the policies associated with neoliberalism have eroded public trust in government, exacerbated economic inequality, and weakened the regulatory tools necessary to effectively address the environmental crisis. The emphasis on free markets and privatization, they argue, has limited the capacity of governments to intervene in economic affairs and enact policies to promote a rapid shift to environmentally sustainable systems.

Chomsky argues that the neoliberalism's focus on individual responsibility and market solutions to societal issues often overshadows the collective action needed to address a global crisis like climate change. He criticizes the individualistic framing of environmental responsibility, exemplified by Jimmy Carter's suggestion to turn down thermostats during the energy crisis, as ultimately ineffective and distracting from the systemic changes needed to address the problem. Moreover, the authors argue that the relentless pursuit of economic growth under neoliberalism, regardless of its environmental and social consequences, has exacerbated the climate emergency. This growth imperative, fueled by corporations' pursuit of profit maximization, has incentivized the continued dependence on fossil fuels and hindered investments in renewables, further entrenching a system that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term sustainability.

Practical Tips

• Encourage transparency by submitting regular freedom of information requests on issues that concern you, and share the responses with your community. This not only holds public officials accountable but also educates you and your neighbors about the inner workings of government, potentially dispelling misconceptions and fostering a more trusting relationship.
• Educate yourself on the principles of cooperative economics and consider joining or starting a cooperative. Cooperatives are member-owned, member-governed businesses that operate for the benefit of their members according to common principles agreed upon by the international cooperative movement. They can be a practical way to experience firsthand an alternative to the competitive market system, and you can start by looking for food co-ops or credit unions in your area to join.
• Start a blog or social media page focused on tracking and analyzing the effects of neoliberal policies in your area. Document changes in your community, like the closure of small businesses or shifts in employment patterns, and relate them to broader economic policies. This creates a platform for discussion and awareness among your peers, fostering a more informed citizenry.
• Start a personal responsibility journal to track your contributions to global issues. Each day, jot down actions you've taken that either contribute to or help alleviate global crises. This could include reducing energy consumption, supporting local businesses, or educating yourself on global issues. The act of writing it down reinforces personal accountability and can gradually shift your focus from individual to collective action.

Far-right Nationalism and Climate Denialism Threaten Urgent Action

Chomsky warns that the rise of far-right nationalist movements globally poses a significant threat to the necessary collective action to address climate change. He argues that these movements, characterized by xenophobia, isolationism, and climate denialism, undermine the international cooperation needed to successfully move to an environmentally friendly economy. The authors recognize that the growing popularity of these ideologies presents a formidable challenge to developing a political consensus around climate action.

Chomsky cites Donald Trump's election and the subsequent creation of a global alliance of reactionaries encompassing figures like Jair Bolsonaro, Mohammed bin Salman, and Narendra Modi, as evidence of this dangerous trend. These right-wing leaders, often driven by nationalistic agendas and a denial of climate science, actively obstruct efforts to combat climate issues, prioritizing short-term economic gains over environmental and social well-being. The authors argue that the rise of these movements reflects a broader societal shift towards isolationism and a rejection of global responsibility, further hindering the international cooperation needed to effectively address the environmental emergency. Overcoming this trend, they believe, requires a concerted effort to combat misinformation, promote a more inclusive vision of global cooperation, and reassert the urgency of collective action to address climate change.

Practical Tips

• You can foster dialogue by starting a book club focused on climate change and its social implications, inviting members from diverse political backgrounds. By selecting a range of books that touch on environmental issues and their intersection with politics, you encourage open discussions that can bridge the gap between different viewpoints. This helps to break down ideological barriers and promote understanding, which is essential for collective action.
• You can engage in micro-volunteering online to contribute to social well-being from your own home. Platforms exist that allow you to offer skills like writing, graphic design, or data entry in short, manageable tasks for nonprofits and social causes. By dedicating even 30 minutes a week, you can support initiatives that work against the nationalistic agendas you're concerned about.
• Create a personal 'World News Digest' where you dedicate one day a week to reading news from international sources outside of your own country. This habit can broaden your perspective, reduce the risk of an isolationist mindset, and help you understand the interconnectedness of global events and their impact on different societies.
• Engage with local community groups or online forums by sharing credible climate change information in a digestible format. You could create simple infographics or summaries that make complex data more accessible to the average person. For instance, you might illustrate the correlation between rising CO2 levels and global temperature increases over the last century, helping others visualize the impact of human activity on climate change.
• Engage in language exchange partnerships with individuals from other countries. This not only helps you learn a new language but also allows for cultural exchange and the building of international relationships, which are the foundation of global cooperation.
• Implement a "one less" principle in your daily life by consciously choosing to use one less disposable item each day. Whether it's opting for a reusable coffee cup, skipping the plastic straw, or bringing your own bags to the grocery store, each small action contributes to a larger collective impact. Keep track of your "one less" items and share your experience with others to encourage them to do the same.

Fostering Political Participation and Backing Environmental Initiatives Is Crucial Yet Challenging

Climate Crisis vs. Economic Security and Daily Lives

Chomsky and Pollin highlight the crucial challenge of connecting the seemingly abstract threat of climate change to the public's day-to-day concerns. They acknowledge the difficulty in mobilizing people to address a long-term crisis when faced with the urgent pressures of financial uncertainty and the requirements of daily life. They believe that bridging this disconnect is vital for building the degree of community support necessary for enacting ambitious climate policies.

The authors recognize the real concerns of people like the French Yellow Vest protesters who opposed taxes on carbon that disproportionately impacted lower-income individuals. They argue that environmentalists must prioritize policies that address the economic needs of people, alongside environmental concerns, to garner broader support. Furthermore, they point to the example of the mine worker in West Virginia who withdrew his support for Bernie Sanders when the candidate called for phasing out coal production, demonstrating the inherent tension between climate action and urgent financial anxieties. The case highlights how crucial it is to have just transition policies that ensure workers and communities are not left behind in the shift towards a green economy, effectively demonstrating that climate action can be both socially and economically beneficial.

Practical Tips

• Develop a "crisis meal prep" habit by dedicating one day a week to preparing and freezing affordable, nutritious meals. This can reduce the daily pressure of meal planning and provide security knowing you have food ready in times of financial uncertainty.
• You can evaluate the impact of new policies on your budget by creating a simple spreadsheet that tracks changes in your expenses whenever a new policy is announced. For instance, if a new tax is introduced, add a column to your spreadsheet and calculate how much more you'll be paying monthly. This will help you understand the real-world effects of such policies on your finances.
• You can start a blog that showcases local businesses adopting eco-friendly practices, highlighting how these practices also improve their bottom line. By doing this, you're creating a platform that celebrates the intersection of environmentalism and economic benefit, encouraging other businesses to follow suit. For example, feature a coffee shop that uses biodegradable cups and saves money by reducing waste disposal fees.
• Explore the possibility of starting a community garden that employs sustainable practices. This not only provides a source of local, environmentally friendly produce but can also create a sense of community and potentially offer job opportunities. Look for unused land or spaces in your neighborhood that could be transformed into a garden, and collaborate with neighbors to plan, fund, and maintain it.

Building a Coalition to Overcome Pushback and Drive Change

The authors believe that overcoming the social and governmental inertia around environmental measures requires fostering widespread public participation and building effective coalitions. They emphasize the importance of grassroots movements in challenging the dominance of business interests and lobbying for transformative change, advocating a diversified approach that engages various sectors of society, including labor unions, environmental groups, and local collectives. The pressing environmental crisis, they argue, necessitates a collective effort that bridges traditional divides and mobilizes a broad base of support.

The authors draw inspiration from the historical success of the workers' movement in driving social change, highlighting the pivotal role unions played in pushing for reforms associated with the New Deal that significantly bettered the lives of working Americans during the postwar period. They argue that by embracing a similar coalition-building strategy, climate advocates can leverage the collective power of diverse groups to challenge the influence of powerful corporations and advocate for an environmentally and socially conscious Green New Deal. Further, they highlight the recent surge in climate activism, particularly among younger generations, as a positive sign of growing public awareness and urge a more strategic approach that links climate concerns to tangible economic benefits, ensuring that the transition to a green economy is perceived as a path to a more just and prosperous future for all.

Practical Tips

• Transform your consumer habits into advocacy by choosing products from companies that align with your values and sharing your choices online. For example, if you're concerned about environmental issues, purchase from brands that are known for sustainable practices and post about your decision on your social media. This not only supports businesses that are making a positive impact but also influences your circle to consider the implications of their purchasing decisions.
• You can start a conversation with someone from a different sector by asking about their work and its impact on the community. This opens up a dialogue where you can learn about the challenges and goals of various groups, such as labor unions or environmental organizations. For example, if you meet someone who works for a labor union, ask them about the union's current initiatives and how they believe these efforts benefit society.
• Start a book club or discussion group centered around the theme of labor rights and social reforms to foster a community of informed individuals. Choose books and articles that cover different aspects of labor history and the New Deal, and use these discussions to draw parallels with modern-day labor issues, encouraging participants to become more active in supporting workers' rights today.
• Start a mini-podcast series using just your smartphone to interview young activists in your community. With simple recording apps, you can capture their stories, goals, and insights, then publish these conversations on free podcast platforms. This can help spread awareness and inspire others to take action, even if they're not deeply involved in environmental issues.