Can Capitalism Solve the Climate Crisis?

"Absolutely, I have experienced investing in a way that green growth has led to both equitable growth and decarbonization, but also have lived experience of what degrowth can do to a country, and how, in my view, [degrowth] is not really a solution."

"My kids will ask in 20 years... what did you do about [climate change]? Working within the existing system is the fastest route. The world runs on finance and economy."

"The goal of the panel was to convene voices that don't necessarily always share the same starting point, but who are willing to engage seriously and constructively."

Columbia Climate School and Journalism School hosted the inaugural Perspectives Dialogue Series, a public forum featuring diverse thinkers discussing capitalism's role in addressing climate change. Moderated by Climate School Dean Alexis Abramson, the event titled "Degrowth vs. Green Growth: Can Capitalism Solve Climate Change?" brought together five panelists including journalists, investment professionals, and sustainability experts. The discussion explored evolving climate economics and policy discourse. Panelists Archana Shah and Chris Van de Voorde advocated for green growth, citing investment success and urgency for future generations. Shah emphasized equitable growth and decarbonization through capitalism, while Van de Voorde stressed that working within existing financial systems offers the fastest climate solutions. The forum aimed to convene voices with different perspectives willing to engage constructively on complex climate issues.

Read at State of the Planet