6.04 - Climate Change as a Human Story with Peter Prengaman, Global Climate and Environmental News Director for the Associated Press
In a special episode of Path to Zero, recorded at the Reuters Global Energy Transition event in New York City, host Tucker Perkins delves into the intricate and human side of climate change with Peter Prengaman, the Global Climate and Environmental News Director for the Associated Press (AP).
As a seasoned journalist with over 22 years of experience and numerous international assignments, Prengaman brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the discussion.
Key Takeaways and Insights from Tucker’s interview with AP’s Peter Prengaman:
Climate Change: A Global and Human Narrative
Prengaman emphasizes that while science is the foundation of climate reporting, the story of climate change is fundamentally human. He recounts impactful stories from around the world, such as the devastating floods in Pakistan and Libya, highlighting how climate change exacerbates inequalities. “Climate change is an inequality story,” Prengaman notes, explaining how the wealthy can adapt more easily to changing environments, while the poor often bear the brunt of the impact.
The Challenges of Climate Journalism
Reporting on climate change is a complex task, given the vast scope of the issue and the need to resonate with a diverse audience. Prengaman leads a team of 30 journalists worldwide who cover extreme weather events, policy changes, and innovative solutions to decarbonize the world. Despite the challenges, he believes that telling human stories can make climate issues more relatable and urgent for readers.
The Global Impact of Energy Policies
The conversation touches on the global implications of energy policies, such as the impact of the Ukraine war on the energy transition. Prengaman notes that different countries have responded in various ways, with some accelerating their move towards renewable energy and others increasing fossil fuel infrastructure for energy security.
Hopeful Signs and Inspiring Regions
Despite the challenges, Prengaman finds hope in regions like Africa, where innovative ideas for energy transition are emerging. He also sees promise in the United States, where the Inflation Reduction Act is driving significant changes in energy consumption and efficiency.
A Journey from Brazil to Global Climate Reporting
Prengaman’s journey into journalism and climate reporting began early in life. At ten, his mother adopted two boys from Brazil, sparking his interest in Latin America. This fascination led him to study Portuguese and pursue a master’s degree at Stanford, focusing on Brazil. His professional career took him to Brazil, where he worked for three years, wrote several books, and developed a deep understanding of the region’s environmental and political dynamics.
Brazil: A Nation at the Heart of Environmental and Climate Debates
The conversation shifts to Brazil, a country with significant environmental stakes due to the Amazon rainforest. Prengaman discusses the nuanced perspectives within Brazil, where national pride and practical economic needs often clash with environmental conservation efforts. He highlights how the country’s leaders who must balance environmental policies with economic realities, such as ongoing oil drilling.
Books that Reflect Brazil’s Complexity
Prengaman’s literary work also reflects his deep connection to Brazil. His first book, Dilma’s Downfall, co-authored with Mauricio Savarese, explores the political turmoil surrounding Brazil’s first female president, Dilma Rousseff, and her impeachment. His second book, One for Two, inspired by his son, addresses homelessness and poverty in Brazil through the lens of an eight-year-old boy.
Upcoming AP Projects
Prengaman concludes by teasing upcoming projects at the AP, including a series on indigenous peoples’ adaptation to climate change and another on workers transitioning from fossil fuels to green energy.
