132. Getting Over The Line at COP26 with Alok Sharma

By Global Optimism

Outrage + Optimism

09/12/21·59m 15s

Countries have stepped up. Projected emission trajectories have come down. But let’s be real for a moment- We are still not doing enough, fast enough. So what did this year's host of the COP26 get right, and what is still in play as we prepare for COP27? Today we talk with Alok Sharma, President of COP26 and the man in the spotlight of the Glasgow negotiations just a few weeks back.

As Alok takes us back through his experience at COP26 keeping 1.5°C front and center, the grounding truth of how The Glasgow Pact directly impacts the lives and livelihoods of millions of people becomes crystal clear. In this episode we hear from his perspective how fighting climate change must be both a personal experience and global effort, and how building trust was a precious commodity in the discussions, holding the key to all the parties mutually agreeing to get an agreement over the line.

But, how is this hard-earned political trust perceived outside the negotiation halls? It seems an increasingly challenging task to ensure that this is communicated in a digestible way to all the stakeholders working tirelessly for the phasing out of fossil fuels, climate justice, adaptation, as well as loss and damage.

Listen in to discover the presidency’s plans on how to ensure that no small piece of the process allows it all to tumble down like a big jenga tower.

And stick around after the conversation for a cinematic musical experience with Sarah Class!

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Mentioned links from the episode:

WATCH: Sister True Dedication’s TED Talk

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Thank you to our guest this week, the Right Honorable Alok Sharma MP!

Rt Hon Alok Sharma MP

COP26 President