Environmental Groups Are Blocking The Best Climate Solutions | IEA Briefing

In this segment from our longer "Not Invented Here" interview, Dr Christopher Snowdon examines the environmental movement's puzzling resistance to proven climate solutions. He focuses on two key examples: nuclear power and GM foods, where environmental groups consistently oppose technologies that could help achieve their stated goals. The discussion reveals how historical events like Chernobyl shaped anti-nuclear sentiment, despite nuclear power being one of the most effective tools for fighting climate change. Snowdon points out the stark contrast between environmentalists' embrace of climate science and their rejection of scientific consensus on nuclear safety, noting that Chernobyl's death toll pales in comparison to ongoing deaths from coal pollution. The conversation extends to GM foods, particularly golden rice, where activist opposition has prevented a solution to malnutrition in developing nations. Snowdon argues this resistance stems from environmentalists' romanticised view of organic farming rather than scientific evidence, highlighting how ideological preferences can block practical solutions to urgent global challenges. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit economicaffairs.co.uk/subscribe