In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra speaks with Emily Wafler, a sustainability consultant, about her perspective on climate change and the decision to have children. Emily shares her journey from studying environmental science to working with corporations on their carbon reduction plans. They discuss the importance of balancing individual action with systemic change, the challenges of navigating overwhelming information, and the role of realistic optimism in creating a sustainable future.

Guest Bios:

• Emily Wafler is a sustainability consultant with a background in environmental science and engineering. She works with corporations to develop and implement carbon reduction plans and brings a realistic and optimistic perspective to the conversation about climate change and parenthood.

Key Takeaways:

• The Importance of Place: Emily emphasizes the role of location in deciding where to raise a child, considering the potential impacts of climate change on different regions.

• Mental Health and Climate Anxiety: She highlights the importance of navigating the overwhelming information about climate change in a way that promotes mental well-being, especially for children.

• Balancing Individual and Systemic Action: The conversation explores the balance between individual choices and the need for systemic change in addressing climate change.

• The Role of Companies: Emily discusses the responsibility of companies in driving sustainability initiatives and the challenges they face in balancing profit with long-term environmental goals.

• Realistic Optimism: She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a hopeful outlook while acknowledging the challenges of climate change, advocating for a balanced approach that combines action with optimism.

• The Power of Early Experiences: Emily shares her belief that early childhood experiences in nature can shape values and inspire future action on climate change.

Relevant Links:

• Book: "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer

• Organization: Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

• Index: Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI)

• TV Show: The Good Place

• Person: Katharine Hayhoe