ESRAG Podcast: Climate conversations

Ilya Admiral Shcharbitski and ESRAG

Welcome to the ESRAG Podcast, your go-to source for all things related to the Environment and Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG). Join us as we explore innovative solutions, inspiring stories, and actionable insights from Rotarians and experts dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Each episode delves into topics such as climate change, renewable energy, biodiversity, and community-driven environmental initiatives. Whether you’re a seasoned environmental advocate or new to the field, our podcast offers valuable information and motivation to help you make a positive impact. Tune in and be part of the global movement for a greener, healthier planet with ESRAG.

  1. 11/04/2025

    ESRAG Podcast - With Dr Angela Benson

    Angela Benson   Introduction: 00:08 Intro Admiral & Felix and cooperation to another RAG within Rotary - Rotarian Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health. Interesting news: 00:43 Admiral chocolate and cocoa trees being affected by climate crisis. https://theecologist.org/2025/may/12/all-cocoa-trees-will-be-destroyed#:~:text=Cocoa%20yields%20will%20be%20%E2%80%9Cdestroyed,global%20markets%2C%20including%20the%20UK https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/may/21/eu-chocolate-climate-breakdown-crisis-report https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/research-institutes/plant-research/show-wpr/climate-change-puts-african-cocoa-production-under-pressure.htm 02:50 Introduction Guest Angela Benson. Dr. Angela Benson is a medical doctor and public health specialist with decades of experience in child, maternal, and family health. She currently serves as Chair of the Rotarian Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health. A graduate of the A.M. Dogliotti College of Medicine at the University of Liberia, Dr. Benson also holds a Diploma in Child Health from the National University of Ireland and a Master’s in Public Health from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, with a specialization in maternal and child health. Throughout her career, she has held senior technical and leadership roles with UNICEF and WHO, working across more than 40 countries in the African region. From immunization and gender-sensitive programming to emergency health response and systems strengthening, her work has helped shape critical public health strategies at national and regional levels. Dr. Benson has published in areas ranging from pediatric oncology to health system reform post-Ebola, and continues to teach community medicine in Liberia. She is also the founder of the Global Health Innovations and Action Foundation and Benson Hospital in Monrovia, both focused on delivering equitable and compassionate healthcare for women and children. 03:09 Angela, let’s start with your story. What first brought you into Rotary, and what led you to focus on health, especially for women and children? 05:45 Maternal and child health risks? 07:05 You now lead the Rotarian Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health. What does this work mean to you, and why is it so important for the future of communities? 11:24 How to support women in need in places where it is very hard to support them? 15:05 We’re hearing more and more about how the environment and health are connected. From your perspective, how do things like climate change or pollution affect the health of mothers and children? 21:10 Have you worked on or seen a project where improving environmental conditions, like clean water, safe energy, or better sanitation, made a real difference for maternal and child health? 25:50 These are complex challenges. How can Rotary, Rotaract, and everyday people be part of the solution, even if they aren’t doctors or climate experts? 31:35  What have you seen as the most effective ways to support mothers and newborns, especially when resources are limited? 36:25  If you could leave us with one message, especially for young people who care about health and the planet, what would it be? Good news & Positive ending 41:21 Felix: There has been sightseeing of new animal  https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx0kn124w0o 43:10 Admiral: Discussing the release of movie named Ocean, talks about health of our oceans and the role of Sir David Attenborough  https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0wjxg0ex1o 45:59 To end on a humorous note, during an event saw King Charles attending the premiere of Sir David Attenborough's Ocean. During the event, the King humorously remarked to Sir David, "I can't believe your 99th birthday is on Thursday," highlighting the broadcaster's remarkable longevity and continued dedication to environmental causes. More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    48 min

  2. 10/28/2025

    ESRAG Podcast - With Kris Cameron & Dawn Byford

    Kris Cameron and Dawn Byford #17   Introduction: 00:10 Intro Admiral & Felix Interesting news: 01:03 Kris has been reading a new book by Will Potter about factory farming and how there are more and more laws against reporting on how the food is being made. More on the book here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216425370-little-red-barns 02:05 Dawn Byford has been reading on about global warming in arab peninsula https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/news/middle-east-and-north-africa-warming-faster-than-other-regions-393567 03:24 Admiral on bird species in decline https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/oct/10/biodiversity-conservation-world-bird-species-declining-arctic-seals-green-turtles-iucn-uae-aoe 07:55 Felix: new animal has been spotted in Congo forest. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx0kn124w0o    09:10 Introduction of our guests Kris and Dawn from TASKFORCE Rich plant diet Dawn Byford is Co-Chair of the Task Force and a member of the Rotary Club of Canmore in Alberta, Canada. After a life-altering auto accident, Dawn found healing through whole food plant-based eating, and now teaches others how to nourish their bodies and protect the planet. She’s an honor graduate in Holistic Nutrition from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition and a trained educator with the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies. She regularly leads cooking demos, writes articles, and collaborates with communities across the Bow Valley region to make sustainable living deliciously accessible. Kris Cameron, Co-Chair and member of the Wenatchee Confluence Rotary Club in Washington, USA, brings decades of experience in public education, human resources, and community organizing to her role. A passionate advocate for animal welfare and environmental health, Kris works to end factory farming and promote the benefits of plant-rich diets across the Rotary world. She holds degrees in business and education, as well as a plant-based nutrition certificate from the Center for Nutrition Studies. Kris has held multiple leadership roles in Rotary and helped launch impactful ESRAG-aligned projects at both club and district levels. 10:50 Why has the Plant-Rich Diet become a focus for ESRAG, what makes what’s on our plate such a powerful climate lever? 17:02 With food systems now estimated to contribute up to 60% of global emissions, how should we rethink our assumptions about agriculture, land use, and sustainability? 22:03 What role does seafood and aquaculture play in the plant-rich conversation, and are there ethical or environmental red flags we’re not talking about enough? 31:55 At RICON Calgary, ESRAG has launched the Pledge to Veg, how do you envision this pledge growing within the global Rotary network, and what impact could it have? - link to pledge to veg: https://esrag.org/blog/2025/06/09/lower-your-carbon-footprint-for-ricon/ 36:32 For those who want to experience change personally, the 15-Day Plant-Rich Diet Challenge offers a chance to experiment and reflect, what have been the most surprising or inspiring outcomes from past participants? 42:03  Looking ahead, what gives you hope? What would the world look like if Rotary embraced plant-rich living at scale, from kitchens to conventions?   Good news & Positive ending 48:32 Felix: A new golden toad https://www.natureandculture.org/directory/new-frogs-call-echoes-need-for-protection-in-the-amazon/   49:45 Kris: Removal of dams helps nature make a return: https://www.rotary.org/en/healing-water-the-klamath-river-restoration 50:41 Dawn: High seas treaty ratified https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/19/climate/high-seas-treaty-ocean-biodiversity-ratified.html 51:10 Admiral: Green turtles making a comeback! https://tinyurl.com/3ej5pjra More information: https://www.greenerbydefault.com/ Join the pledge to VEG! https://esrag.org/blog/2025/06/09/lower-your-carbon-footprint-for-ricon/

    56 min

  3. 05/21/2025

    ESRAG Podcast - With Richard Kirundi

    ESRAG Podcast Episode #16   Richard Kirundi   Introduction: 00:10 Intro Admiral & Felix Short talk about Felix birthday Interesting news: 01:43 Felix talking about all types of snakes that he hasn’t seen before  02:21 Admiral on climate change to affect blood transfusions https://www.euronews.com/health/2025/04/19/bleeding-the-planet-dry-climate-change-could-unlock-new-threat-to-the-worlds-blood-supply   05:01 Introduction Guest Richard Kirundi We welcome Richard Kirundi—a seasoned National Security Consultant and Institutional Reform Expert with over 30 years of government service, including his pivotal role in the Presidential Task Force on reforms in the National Police Service, Correctional Services, and the National Youth Service, known as the Maraga Task Force. Beyond his extensive experience in national reform, Richard is a passionate environmentalist. He currently serves as the District Environment Chair for Rotary District 9212, encompassing Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and South Sudan. Richard has been instrumental in chartering Africa's first Eco Rotary Club, as well as environmental Rotaract and Interact Clubs. He's the Co-Chair of ESRAG's Africa Chapter, Chair of Kipepeo Green Heritage, and a driving force behind river restoration projects that have garnered international attention, including a visit from the UN Deputy Secretary-General. 06:40 Let’s start with your Rotary journey, what inspired you to join Rotary, and what keeps you committed to Rotary? 08:25 How did Felix join Rotary? 11:33 Are Rotary clubs doing enough in environment space? 16:32 Why the interest in Interact and Rotaract? What is the message by creating these 2 forms of clubs? 20:21 Rotaractors being active for Environment, and how  22:10 You recently received the Presidential Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya for your work in transforming national systems - congratulations. What opportunities do you see for stronger collaboration between governments and Rotary, especially in tackling climate and environmental crises? 28:30  Dashboard for the environment 33:50  Positive words from Richard Kirundi for all. Good news & Positive ending 36:45 Felix: A lovely memory about late pope Franciscus  https://unfccc.int/news/pope-francis-releases-encyclical-on-climate-and-environment 38:25 Admiral: Positive ending - Elk migration TV show in Sweden is a hit! https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cewgn0v5j9po More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    42 min

  4. 04/29/2025

    ESRAG Podcast - With Pat Merryweather-Arges

    ESRAG Podcast with Pat Merryweather-Arges Introduction: 00:01 Intro Admiral & Felix and our guest Pat Interesting news: 00:59  Catch up with Felix, Felix wants to feed animals more fruits to combat food loss. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0377840120304752 05:21 Admiral hay fever and other allergies, how climate change will affect people with allergies. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/10/pollen-peril-how-heat-thunder-and-smog-are-creating-deadly-hay-fever-seasons-aoe    09:14 Introduction guest Pat Merryweather-Arges We're honored to be joined by Pat Merryweather-Arges, Immediate Past Rotary International Board Vice President and a passionate leader in global health, sustainability, peacebuilding, and service. Pat’s Rotary journey spans decades of impact — from leading healthcare initiatives to championing clean water, mental health, and patient-centered care. She’s Chair of the WASH Rotary Action Group, part of ESRAG and the Peace Rotary Action Group, and a driving force behind the International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals. Outside Rotary, she serves as Executive Director of Project Patient Care and works closely with national and international coalitions focused on dementia care and health outcomes. Pat brings not only a wealth of experience, but also a deep compassion for people and the planet. Today, we’ll talk about healthcare, climate change, water and hygiene, and how we can all make a difference through Rotary. Let’s dive into the conversation. 10:00 Pat’s journey into Rotary, and how has her journey evolved over the years 14:20 As a leader in the International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals, how do healthcare professionals contribute to global health and sustainability efforts? 17:11 The growing concern of antibiotic resistance 23:04 How to join the International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals 26:45 How does climate change, especially extreme heat, affect mental health, and what can we do about it? 29:50 Flood impacts on youth, especially mental health of young people. 35:20 You served as Rotary International Board Vice President and Director, what was that experience like, and what insights did you gain? What will stay with you? 39:35 And to close on a positive note: what advice do you have for Rotarians and Rotaractors around the world who want to make a meaningful impact?   Good news & Positive ending 42:17 Felix: Climb of Mikayi  https://www.paukwa.or.ke/story-series/onlyinkenya/the-tales-of-kit-mikayi/ 45:44 Trip of Pat to Kenya 50:20 Admiral: India doubles it’s tiger population in a decade https://www.euronews.com/green/2025/02/03/india-doubles-tiger-population-in-a-decade-can-other-countries-learn-from-its-conservation   More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    54 min

  5. 04/15/2025

    ESRAG Podcast - With Gert-Jan van Dommelen

    ESRAG Podcast with Gert-Jan van Dommelen. Introduction: 00:01 Intro Admiral & Felix and our guest Gert-Jan Interesting news: 00:44 Felix about longest hug of a tree https://www.euronews.com/green/2025/02/10/i-found-peace-activist-hopes-48-hours-of-non-stop-tree-hugging-will-inspire-others-to-love#:~:text=A%20young%20Kenyan%20woman%20may,Kenya%20for%20almost%2048%20hours  02:31 Admiral on coffee prices set to increase due to climate change and climate issues that farmers are facing https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/mar/15/price-of-instant-coffee-rises-by-up-to-40-in-a-year-for-some-brands-which  04:14 Introduction guest Gert-Jan van Dommelen In this episode, we have a special guest who has dedicated his Rotary journey to tackling one of the world’s biggest environmental challenges: plastic pollution. Gert-Jan van Dommelen is the co-founder of EndPlasticSoup, a global Rotary initiative committed to ending plastic waste. He’s also an experienced international program manager and consulting leader at IBM Benelux, past president of Rotary Club Huizen Gooimeer, and co-leader of ESRAG’s Plastic Solutions Taskforce. Gert-Jan, welcome to the podcast! 08:00 Background of Gert-Jan van Dommelen journey into Rotary. 10:10 The Birth of EndPlasticSoup – How did EndPlasticSoup start, and what were the biggest challenges in turning it into a global movement? 12:10 Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges. What are the biggest dangers people often overlook? 15:45 Dangers of plastic and plastic pollutants 19:33 How EndPlasticSoup Makes a Difference – How does EndPlasticSoup tackle plastic pollution, and what are some of the initiative’s biggest successes so far? 24:45 Collaboration & Advocacy – EndPlasticSoup works closely with ESRAG’s Plastic Solutions Taskforce and other organizations. What role do these partnerships play, and how can Rotary collaborate even more effectively? 33:15 Navigating Resistance to Climate Action – With global setbacks like the failure to sign the plastic treaty last year, how can we push for more action and keep momentum going? 36:21 Why does individual action still matter? Plastic pollution can feel overwhelming. How can Rotarians, Rotaractors, and individuals contribute effectively, and why do individual actions still matter?  If someone wants to make a difference starting tomorrow, what’s the most impactful thing they can do? 39:15 Last remarks of Gert-Jan van Dommelen. Make a change!   Good news & Positive ending 41:05 Felix: Hemp for the future. https://tinyurl.com/4apwz4h6 43:30 Admiral: Beavers saved Czechia government a lot of money by building a dam. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/beaver-dam-czech-republic More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    48 min

  6. 04/01/2025

    ESRAG Podcast - With Pablo Palacios

    ESRAG Podcast with Pablo Palacios Date 01-04-2025   Introduction: 00:10 Intro Admiral & Felix 00:20 New Year Traditions and christmas holidays recap 03:16 Swiss Grandma’s sued the Swiss government to demand climate action https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/who-are-elderly-swiss-women-behind-landmark-climate-court-case-win-2024-04-09/ Interesting news: 05:09 Felix about Hemp production in Kenya and Hemp conference -  https://kehecon.com/  https://letstalkhemp.com/kenya-hemp-conference-2025-a-historic-step-toward-industrial-hemp-growth-in-east-africa/ 07:45 Admiral on overview of climate news to watch in 2025 https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250107-the-key-climate-and-nature-moments-to-look-out-for-in-2025  11:40 Introduction Guest Pablo Palacios Joining us today is Pablo Palacios—a film director, writer, communicator, and passionate environmental activist. Pablo is the founder and director of the Arcandina Foundation, where he has produced environmental educational television programs that have reached millions of children in the United States and Latin America. An honorary member of the Rotary Club of Ecuador, Pablo is the driving force behind global water and environmental mingas. His work has earned recognition from UNESCO, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Schwab Foundation of the World Economic Forum. Pablo studied communications at Johns Hopkins University and has managed communication programs across Europe, Africa, the United States, and Latin America. Pablo, welcome to the podcast!   14:50 How did you first get involved with Rotary, and how has it influenced your work in Ecuador? 19:15 Achieving goals with Minga projects, listen to Pablo explain his process of working 23:00 You have done films, documentaries and all kinds of arts, which has been most impactful? 27:05 Challenges of making climate stories  36:50 What does foundation of Arcandina does and the involvement of Pablo Palacios in it. 43:10 Last words for future by Pablo Good news & Positive ending 44:50 Admiral: https://www.climate.gov/news-features/blogs/enso/january-2025-update-la-nina-here 46:50: Good news & Positive ending Admiral: Beehive fences against elephants. https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/22/world/video/elephant-beehive-fences-tanzania-inside-africa-digvid-spc 47:49 Pablo: Reforestation project: https://wemakeit.com/projects/minga-reforestation-project-2023?locale=en 50:26 Felix: Sugarcane cultivations: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcbb.13188 More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    53 min

  7. 12/17/2024

    ESRAG Podcast - With Lamech Opiyo

    Lamech Opiyo Introduction: 00:10 Intro Admiral & Felix and our guest Lamech Opiyo Interesting news: 01:00 Felix about Zebrafish in Kenya - https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Zebrafish  01:45 Admiral on failed plastic treaty that didn’t get adapted in South Korea https://www.euronews.com/green/2024/12/02/we-should-be-outraged-plastics-treaty-talks-collapse-as-countries-disagree-on-chemicals-an    05:14 Introduction Guest Lamech Opiyo In this episode, we welcome Lamech Opiyo, a multi-award-winning environmental conservation champion, youth leader, and climate activist from Kenya. A passionate changemaker, Lamech’s journey spans impactful work in environmental advocacy, humanitarian efforts, and leadership within Rotaract and Rotary. As a recent graduate in Environmental Science and Community Development, Lamech currently serves as Programs Assistant with UNESCO HEDGES, contributing to sustainability and green economy initiatives. He has held numerous leadership roles in Rotaract, including as President of the Rotaract Club of Kenyatta University, where he grew the club into the largest in District 9212. Lamech’s achievements include leading the Green Rotaract Concept, driving impactful environmental projects across East Africa, and representing Rotary International at COP 28 in Dubai. His work embodies a relentless commitment to tackling global challenges and empowering others to take action. Join us as we explore Lamech’s inspiring journey, his dedication to environmental conservation, and his vision for a better, more sustainable future.   05:50 Background of Lamech Opiyo journey into Rotaract. 13:10 During your time as president of the Rotaract Club of Kenyatta University, you grew the club to over 200 members. What key strategies or principles contributed to this success? Environmental Projects: Out of all the environmental projects you’ve worked on, which one do you consider the most impactful, and what made it stand out? 21:51 Which positions were the most challenging to handle?  26:22 Lamech reviewed COP28 as attendee and COP29 as spectator from outside. 32:10 Out of all the environmental projects you’ve worked on, which one do you consider the most impactful, and what made it stand out? 35:00  What drives your passion for environmental conservation, and how do you encourage others to join the cause and make a difference? 38:25  ​​With everything you’ve already achieved, what are your next goals in environmental leadership and youth engagement? 39:00 Positive comments of Lamech Opiya for the future.   Good news & Positive ending 44:49 Felix: Kenya Innovation week - Reviewing various awards. https://kenyainnovationweek.com/ 47:49 Admiral: In November 2024 there were handing out Prototype awards for 2024. Some of the winners include: FormaCyte: A life-changing implant for Type 1 diabetes from Singapore that delivers insulin without risky drugs. AkoFresh: A solar-powered cold storage unit from Ghana, cutting food waste and boosting farmers’ income. Aerostat: A helium balloon from Turkey that spots forest fires early to prevent spread. Carbon-capture battery: A UK invention that stores energy while making carbon capture affordable. Link: https://www.prototypesforhumanity.com/ and award winners for 2024 are:https://www.prototypesforhumanity.com/winners-of-the-2024-awards/    More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    52 min

  8. 12/10/2024

    ESRAG Podcast - With Mary Beth Growney-Selene

    Mary Beth Growney Selene Introduction: 00:10 Intro Admiral & Felix and our guest Mary Beth Growney-Selene Interesting news: 01:00 Felix: There has been mealworms discovered which eat plastic and process it: ⁠https://www.livescience.com/animals/insects/plastic-eating-mealworms-native-to-africa-discovered#:~:text=The%20researchers%20found%20that%20the,the%20complex%20polymers%20in%20plastic⁠. 03:27 Admiral: Microplastics and PFAS combined together, making health impact worse ⁠https://phys.org/news/2024-10-microplastics-pfas-daphnia-combined-impact.html⁠ 05:23 Introduction Guest ⁠Mary Beth Growney-Selene⁠ Mary Beth Growney Selene is a dedicated and inspiring Rotarian with a remarkable history of service and leadership. A member of the Rotary Club of Madison West Middleton since 1987, Mary Beth has held key roles at club, district, and international levels. She served as District Governor for District 6250, a Rotary International Director from 2013-2015, and a Trustee of The Rotary Foundation from 2016-2019. Her contributions to Rotary’s mission are vast. She has been a champion for membership growth, a steward of Rotary Foundation initiatives, and a driving force behind impactful global programs. Mary Beth is an active member of the Rotary-USAID Partnership Steering Committee, where she helps implement sustainable, life-changing projects worldwide. As the immediate past Chair of the WASH Rotary Action Group, she has been a leading advocate for clean water and sanitation solutions. A recipient of Rotary’s highest honors, including the Service Above Self Award and the Foundation’s Meritorious and Distinguished Service Awards, Mary Beth’s commitment to Rotary is unwavering. She is also a Major Donor, Bequest Society member, and part of the Paul Harris Society, underscoring her belief in the power of The Rotary Foundation to transform lives. Mary Beth’s legacy is one of service, dedication, and a relentless drive to empower others to create positive change through Rotary. 06:24 Background of Mary Beth journey into Rotary. 10:32 2.0 billion have lack of access to clean water, how is it the WASHRAG that has been working with Rotary to help solve this problem? 15:07  With climate change accelerating and water becoming increasingly scarce, what do you see as the critical role of WASHRAG in the years ahead? How can Rotary respond to these growing challenges?. 22:10 How to work WASHRAG: https://www.wash-rag.org/membership/ 26:23:WASHRAG and ESRAG share many overlapping goals, especially in addressing climate issues. How do you envision the cooperation between these two action groups evolving? Are there particular synergies you’d like to see developed? 31:10 Last word for future by Mary Beth Growney-Selene.   Good news & Positive ending 33:22 Felix: There have been spotless golden cheetah spotted. https://arunachalobserver.org/2024/11/12/photographed-first-time-in-a-century-rare-spotless-golden-cheetah-spotted-in-athi-kapiti-conservancy-of-kenya-2/ 34:25 Admiral: 10 mins of daily mindfulness and meditation can help you and your mental state https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/10-minutes-of-daily-mindfulness-may-help-change-your-outlook-about-health-improvements   More about ESRAG: https://esrag.org/​​

    38 min
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About

Welcome to the ESRAG Podcast, your go-to source for all things related to the Environment and Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG). Join us as we explore innovative solutions, inspiring stories, and actionable insights from Rotarians and experts dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Each episode delves into topics such as climate change, renewable energy, biodiversity, and community-driven environmental initiatives. Whether you’re a seasoned environmental advocate or new to the field, our podcast offers valuable information and motivation to help you make a positive impact. Tune in and be part of the global movement for a greener, healthier planet with ESRAG.

Information

  • Creator
    Ilya Admiral Shcharbitski and ESRAG
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    ESRAG Podcast: Climate conversations