Briefing and Discussion on Philanthropy at the Nexus of Climate, Nuclear, and Technology Policy - James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies
Briefing and Discussion on Philanthropy at the Nexus of Climate, Nuclear, and Technology Policy | James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies
May 15, 2024
On May 14, 2024 the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) hosted a seminar centered around former CNS alum and current Senior Advisor for the Oppenheimer Project, Theo Kalionzes’ innovative piece in the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Delving into the crucial intersection of climate philanthropy and nuclear issues, Kalionzes not only presented his insightful arguments but also shared invaluable reflections from his time as a grantmaker at the esteemed John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
The seminar kicked off with Kalionzes’ riveting discourse, captivating the audience with his expertise and passion for the subject matter. In-person and online attendees were then drawn into a dynamic interactive session, where lively discussions and brainstorming sessions took center stage. Together, they explored the current landscape of private philanthropy and exchanged ideas on how to advocate for critical expert analysis and engagement on nuclear topics.
The presentation moderated by CNS founder and director, Dr. William Potter as filled with enlightenment, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to driving positive change in our world.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction by Dr. William Potter, Director, James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies and Sam Nunn and Richard Lugar Professor of Nonproliferation Studies, Middlebury Institute of International Studies
02:05 Remarks by Theo Kaliionzes, Senior Advisor, Oppenheimer Project and former CNS alum.
16:11 Q&A and discussion
Related Knowledge Center: Climate economics
Climate change is now a driver of the world’s economy. The impact is profound:
- Catastrophic weather events — hurricanes, floods, droughts, high temperatures — are more frequent and more extreme. The cost can be measured in both the initial damage caused and the longer-term impact on the economy.
- Vulnerable communities are increasing climate-related investments, hardening infrastructure and taking other protective measures.
- Investment in carbon capture and storage technologies is increasingly rapidly.
- Governments are making investments and crafting regulations to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
On top of all of this is the cost of uncertainty. As the Fourth National Climate Assessment, released in 2018 by the U.S. Global Change Research Program, says, “The assumption that current and future climate conditions will resemble the recent past is no longer valid.”