Europe Climate Connection

How does the climate crisis relate to gender inequalities? Why should we apply a gender lens when it comes to climate policy?In this episode, we explore the intersection of gender and the climate crisis, and the need to put gender justice at the heart of climate justice. Women and girls are disproportionately affected by extreme weather events and other climate impacts, especially those in vulnerable communities in the Global South. When the climate crisis hits a community, women and girls struggle the most to access food, water, energy, health, services, education, and livelihood.  In this episode, we hear from Elisabeth in southeastern Kenya, who shares her firsthand experience with the consequences of the climate crisis and we speak with Agnes Schim van der Loeff, climate and justice policy advisor at ActionAid, about the issues, causes, and possible just solutions.ActionAid is a global federation working towards a just, fair, and sustainable world in which everybody enjoys the right to a life of dignity and freedom from poverty and oppression.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar.For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://actionaid.org/

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of the European Green Deal, a sweeping strategy introduced by the EU in 2019 to confront the ecological crisis head-on. Pledged to enhance citizen well-being, promote clean energy, and safeguard biodiversity, the Green Deal sets ambitious goals to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2050. However, amidst accolades dubbing it Europe's 'man on the moon' moment, criticisms abound, questioning its ability to instigate true systemic change. Join us as we dissect the Green Deal's key elements, evaluate its progress, and probe whether it's fulfilling its transformative potential. Our guest, Martijn Pakker from the Institute for European Environmental Policy, provides invaluable insights into the Green Deal's impact and identifies areas warranting improvement.The Institute for European Environmental Policy is an independent, not-for-profit policy studies institute and green think tank which analyses and develops environmental policy in Europe and beyond.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar.For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://ieep.eu/.

With this episode, we continue to keep our fingers on the pulse of the energy transition in Europe, zooming in on Greece—a country facing the brunt of the climate crisis as one of the eight lignite mining European nations.Our guest, Nikos Mantzaris, a Senior Policy Analyst at the Green Tank, breaks down Greece's energy scene. He dives into the just transition process, discussing progress, challenges, and how external factors like the war in Ukraine play a role. Plus, he shares lessons that other European nations can pick up for their own energy transitions.Join us as we explore the details of regional support, community efforts, and the use of funds steering Greece towards eco-friendly economic activities.The Green Tank is an independent, non-profit think tank developing policy solutions for a sustainable future.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://thegreentank.gr/en/.

Ever wondered what happens to climate promises after COPs? In this episode, we look into how commitments and pledges translate into actionable plans on a national level and how citizen participation can bridge the gap between global goals and local actions. Our guest, Systemic Change expert Kim Claes from CIDSE, sheds light on the intricate process of translating lofty climate commitments made at global summits, such as COP, into tangible and impactful actions within individual nations. Join us as we navigate through the challenges and successes of this transformative journey, evaluating the progress and emphasising the vital role citizens play in turning promises into reality.CIDSE is an international family of Catholic social justice organisations working for transformational change to end poverty and inequalities, challenging systemic injustice, inequity, and destruction of nature and promoting just and environmentally sustainable alternatives.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://www.cidse.org/.

As COP28 unfolds in Dubai, we dissect the hidden influence of export credit agencies in financing fossil fuel projects globally. In this episode, export credit insurance expert Marius Troost from BothENDS provides insights into the impact of these agencies on climate, energy transition, and vulnerable communities and sheds light on the urgent need for transparency and change in our approach to environmental justice.BothENDS works with environmental justice groups from poor and developing countries towards a global economy and society that is inclusive and sustainable.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://www.bothends.org/.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate relationship between agricultural practices, climate targets, and environmental sustainability. Our focus is on the nuanced realm of carbon removal and its significance in achieving climate goals. With a spotlight on the European Commission's proposed carbon farming concept, we explore the diverse challenges and potential risks associated with this approach. Our special guest, Sophie Scherger, Program Associate for Climate and Agriculture at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy European Office, sheds light on the current status of European soils and their capacity to support carbon removal initiatives.Join us as we unpack critical questions such as the necessity of carbon removal solutions in combating the climate crisis, the role of agroecology in sustainable agriculture, and the importance of ensuring environmental and social equity in implementing these technologies. Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) advocates for a fair and just transition toward more climate-resilient, agroecological systems for farmers and rural communities.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://www.iatp.org/.

We are back with a second season! As we continue to keep our fingers on the pulse of the energy transition, this episode shines a spotlight on a pivotal aspect of the transition process: the implementation itself. With the EU's 'Fit for 55' package setting climate and energy targets for Member States, we turn our attention to how EU member states plan to realise these goals through their National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs). These plans offer a unique opportunity to align policies with Paris Agreement objectives, requiring Member States to go beyond EU targets. We also explore the potential for citizen involvement, which can infuse democratic principles into climate action. Join us as we dive deep into NECPs, their role in shaping climate action in Europe, and hear from Ana Márquez, a climate and energy officer from SEO/BirdLife, focusing on the case of Spain.SEO/BirdLife, based in Spain, is a leading environmental organization dedicated to conserving birds and their habitats. Through research, advocacy, and community engagement, they work to protect biodiversity and combat climate change.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Seden Anlar and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Seden Anlar For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://www.seo.org and on NECPs: https://1point5.caneurope.org/

Climate change affects us all, but not equally. In this episode, we delve into the pressing issue of carbon inequality, uncovering the disparities in carbon emissions that exist within our society. From marginalised communities bearing the disproportionate burden to the environmental impact of luxury lifestyles, we explore the systemic causes behind this imbalance. Join us as Jacqueline Persson and Julie Boss from Oxfam, shed light on the socioeconomic implications, the global divide, and the urgent need for change.Oxfam is a global movement of people who are fighting inequality to end poverty and injustice. Across regions, from the local to the global, they work with people to bring change that lasts.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. For more info: https://caneurope.org and https://www.oxfam.org/en

How can we create a climate movement that truly represents all voices and perspectives?While the climate crisis affects social groups disproportionately, with vulnerable communities bearing the brunt of its worst consequences, decision-making processes have often excluded these communities, perpetuating a lack of representative democracy.In this episode, we dive into the critical issue of climate justice and the urgent need for a truly inclusive and representative climate movement. Žofie Hobzíková from Youth and Environment Europe (YEE) tells the stories and experiences of incredible youth representatives from across the Balkans, Black Sea region, and Eastern Europe, breaks down the challenges they face and highlights remarkable projects already making a difference. Join us and discover how these activists harnessed the power of community-building and storytelling to participate in environmental decision-making processes.Youth and Environment Europe is the largest independent European network of environmental youth organizations, uniting 42 member organizations from 25 countries. With a focus on addressing the climate and biodiversity crisis, YEE aims to raise awareness and build capacity among young individuals, enhance international cooperation and knowledge-sharing, and strengthen youth participation in environmental and climate decision-making processes.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. For more info: https://caneurope.org/ and https://yeenet.eu/about-yee/

When we talk about sufficiency, we are discussing how to limit our consumption and how to identify the imbalances, the power struggles and inequalities behind that, because it is a social justice problem. In this episode, we will discuss the EU’s responsibility and role to address these issues at policy level, but we also dive into what citizens can do to make a lasting and sustainable change. We live in a world based on capitalism and consumerism and in the global North we have been overconsuming for decades, if not centuries. We know this is not compatible with living on a planet that has finite resources. So, how can we shift to a society that accepts & acknowledges these limits?The Institute for European Environmental Policy is a sustainability think tank.Working with stakeholders across EU institutions, international bodies, academia, civil society and industry, IEEP produces evidence-based research and policy insight and is committed to advancing impact-driven sustainability policy across the EU and the world.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.For more info: https://caneurope.org/ and https://ieep.eu/

A solar rooftop revolution is coming, and it is not leaving anyone behind! From private citizens to local businesses, everyone will gain access to a renewable source of energy that will reduce costs, stop our toxic reliance on fossil fuels, empower consumers and make the energy market more accessible.In this episode we discuss it all: who are prosumers and what benefits will they have from shifting to solar energy? How can businesses increase their profits and gain more independence from the energy market? Is it true that everyone can gain access to solar energy, both in rural areas and the cities? These and many more questions will find their answers in our conversation with Francesc Cots from Ecounion, our expert in solar energy talk from Ecounion. Eco-union is an environmental association founded in 2005 by a multidisciplinary group of professionals and activists who defend the transition towards sustainable development models in the Euro-Mediterranean region by linking the economy and ecology.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.For more info: https://caneurope.org/ and https://www.ecounion.eu/

How do we stop funding climate chaos? Where does the money go and how much of this is real green investments? In this episode we answer these and many more questions with Jonas from Umanotera!From the Taxonomy to public subsidies, we discuss the role and funding of fossil fuels in the energy market, and how and if we will be able to get rid of them. In Central and Eastern Europe, things are starting to change in this regard, and this is in part also thanks to EU funds and their strict requirements. But change takes time, and sometimes it is not so straightforward. For example, when people’s lives and sustenance are connected to coal plants, how can we build a bridge between the climate and social objectives? How can we pursue our sustainability goals without harming people and taking away their livelihood?Umanotera is an organisation based in Slovenia, where Jonas has been working on a campaign called, “Towards a climate-neutral Europe: An efficient allocation of European funds”.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.For more info: https://caneurope.org/ and https://www.umanotera.org/

What system change has to do with the climate crisis? In this episode we discuss it with Simona Getova from Kolektiv Z. If you’re as intrigued as we are, stay tuned!But how do we break free from the old schemes to create a brighter, more sustainable and more inclusive future? To make the needed societal transformation happen, the change needs to be built bottom-up, leaving nobody behind and bringing about the voices of marginalised communities. Kolektiv Z has conducted a project to deconstruct narratives and rebuild them in a way that is inclusive and participatory, widening the focus of the current mainstream politics. Having an intersectional approach ensures we tackle system oppressions at the roots and that climate policies do not work against the people.Kolektiv Z is a collective based in North Macedonia, where Simona has been exploring and applying the concepts of intersectionality, decoloniality, and positionality. Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.For more info: https://caneurope.org/ and http://kolektivz.mk/

Let’s celebrate the new year together by listening to a discussion on Central Eastern Europe and how the coal regions there can benefit from the European Green Deal, which was launched by the EU back in 2020. For the occasion, Radostina Slavkova and Simeon Gorov from NGO Za Zemiata join CAN Europe’s co-hosts Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. This month’s topic is particularly fitting, since it marks the 3rd anniversary of the European Green Deal (a set of policy initiatives by the European Commission aiming to make the European Union climate neutral by 2050). We will discuss the situation in Bulgaria, how much has been achieved so far and what are the next steps to take in the national climate strategy. However, with the war in Ukraine and the fossil fuel crisis, we still need to be careful not to take a step back to dangerous fossil fuels such as coal and gas, as this is an ever changing situation and there’s a risk of losing what has been achieved in the region - particularly in terms of a transition that is fair for all.Za Zemiata is a Bulgarian organisation that works with coal regions and supports them in transitioning directly towards Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.

Hear hear: the second Europe Climate Connection episode is finally out! This month we discuss the energy crisis and, in particular, how we can keep our homes warm with real and renewable solutions in a socially fair way. For the occasion, Clare O’Connor from Friends of the Earth Ireland joins CAN Europe’s co-hosts Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer.Clare from Friends of the Earth Ireland talks with us about the current cost of living crisis (and those salty energy bills we are all receiving), about what is the current process for improving household energy efficiency in Ireland and about what role communities play in the energy transition process. How can this be done in a socially progressive way? Clare also shares some lessons learned with us and talks about Ireland’s coalition tackling energy poverty in the country, which includes rural organisations and anti poverty organisations. It’s a hot topic, so make sure to follow us in the conversation!Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe. Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer. Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa. Script by: Rachel Brabbins. Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.

*Drumroll please!* The first Europe Climate Connection episode launches with a deep dive into climate justice. With the 2022 global climate summit - COP27 - just around the corner, CAN Europe co-hosts Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer chat to Rebecca Thissen from Belgian organisation CNCD 11.11.11. Fresh from an eye-opening trip from Senegal, Rebecca speaks about how frontline communities in the country are being hit by climate impacts such as desertification and floods they are not responsible for, why polluters must pay up for climate losses and damages. She also shares some good news from Belgium and Denmark who are already paving the way for improved climate finance. All eyes are now on the climate summit in Egypt and a hope that wealthy countries make big strides in their commitments and pledges on “Loss and Damage”.Europe Climate Connection is an original podcast presented by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe.Co-hosts: Rachel Brabbins and Olivia Saxer.Executive Producer and Editor: Samuel Martín-Sosa.Script by: Rachel Brabbins.Recorded and edited by Big Audio Media that also provides training, mentorship and assistance during the process.

Coming on 2nd November 2022 - Europe Climate Connection! A podcast dedicated to climate action across Europe. Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe hosts inspirational guests from civil society organisations working on the ground to fight the climate crisis. Each episode dives into a different climate change or energy transition topic giving you the what, who, why and how from specialists across the continent and beyond. So sit back, relax and enjoy critical conversations that hope to spark a change!More information about CAN Europe via caneurope.org and you can follow us on Twitter @CANEurope