In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra talks with Hannah Greene, a recent graduate with extensive international experience, about her views on climate change and the decision to have children. Hannah shares her experiences living and working in various countries, including Malaysia, the UAE, and Ivory Coast, and how these experiences have shaped her understanding of consumption, privilege, and the complexities of climate action. They discuss the challenges of overconsumption in the US, the importance of cultural sensitivity in global health initiatives, and the need for a more equitable and sustainable approach to resource management.

Guest Bios:

• Hannah Greene is a recent graduate with a background in social research and public policy. She has lived and worked in various countries, giving her a unique global perspective on climate change and the decision to have children.

Key Takeaways:

• The Responsibility of Privilege: Hannah emphasizes the responsibility that comes with being an American, acknowledging the disproportionate impact of US consumption on the global environment.

• The Value of International Experience: She shares how living in different countries has broadened her understanding of consumption patterns, resource management, and the challenges faced by communities around the world.

• Rethinking Consumption: The conversation highlights the need to re-evaluate consumption habits and move towards a more circular economy that values resource conservation and reuse.

• The Complexity of Climate Action: They discuss the complexities of addressing climate change, including the need for systemic change, cultural sensitivity, and individual responsibility.

• The Ethics of Population Control: Hannah shares her experience working on a reproductive health project in South Africa and raises ethical concerns about interventions that aim to control populations.

• Empowering Women: She emphasizes the importance of empowering women through education and access to healthcare, recognizing that this is crucial for addressing both social justice and environmental sustainability.

Relevant Links:

• Organization: Vegetarian Resource Group

• Book: "Factfulness" by Hans Rosling