Green Tea Party Radio

Conservative Student Shares Climate Change Perspectives

This episode of Green Tea Party radio features student leader Jack Fisher discussing his conservative perspectives on environmentalism. Jack shares his background growing up in New York and becoming more conservative once he started attending George Washington University. Jack is now half-way through his senior year and serves as the director of political affairs for GW Republicans. He argues conservatives must improve how they communicate their environmental solutions and emphasizes the need for free speech on college campuses. Overall, an insightful discussion on bridging political divides through open dialogue.
🗣️ Quotes from Jack Fisher
"I became more conservative after being exposed to liberal views at my university."
"Conservatives need to communicate their solutions better."
"It's important to have free speech and diversity of thought in political discussions."
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CBAM? Hot Damn! Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms

In this episode of the "Green Tea Party," hosts Zach, Hannah, and Katie delve into the intricate world of environmental policy with a focus on carbon border adjustment mechanisms, specifically discussing Senator Lindsay Cassidy's new proposal. 
The hosts explore the implications of carbon border adjustment mechanisms (CBAMs). They discuss the bipartisan nature of this approach, highlighting how it aims to address environmental issues while maintaining economic sensibility. Zach provides detailed insights into the mechanics of CBAMs, emphasizing their potential to reshape consumer behavior and benefit American businesses by imposing fees on high-polluting imports.
The discussion also touches upon the global context, comparing the U.S. approach to Europe's policies. They speculate on the potential impacts on American consumers and small businesses, suggesting that CBAMs might incentivize more environmentally responsible production globally.
Quotes from the Hosts:
- Hannah: "I'm really excited about a carbon border adjustment mechanism. This is probably one of the most exciting conservative environmental policies I think to come out in a long time because it floats everyone's boat."
- Zach: "What this [CBAM] is essentially is going to place a fee on high polluting imports from foreign countries... And I think this is a great way to place the burden of responsibility back on those countries."
- Katie: "I think that it's super exciting to see a Republican initiative that addresses some of those economic insecurities that we've been seeing lately while also improving the environment."
The episode concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to engage with their representatives and be proactive about environmental issues. The hosts' dynamic and informed conversation makes complex policies accessible and emphasizes the importance of bipartisan solutions in tackling climate change.
Books to Read
Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
Project Drawdown 
Citations
Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. (2022, December 7). Carbon border adjustments. https://www.c2es.org/content/carbon-border-adjustments/ 
Dumain, E. (2023, November 10). Republican climate bill looks to spark carbon tariff talks. E&E News by POLITICO. https://www.eenews.net/articles/republican-climate-bill-looks-to-spark-carbon-tariff-talks/?link_id=3&can_id=f7b3e6fd90eca9101d292ebf9f78a645&source=email-climate-week-en-review-progress&email_referrer=email_2101922&email_subject=climate-week-en-review-progress 
European Comission. (2023). Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Taxation and Customs Union. https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism_en#key-elements 
Hoenig, D. (2023, October 10). Potential CBAM impacts on U.S. industry. Climate Leadership Council. https://clcouncil.org/blog/potential-cbam-impacts-on-u-s-industry/ 
Matthew Lee, opinion contributor. (2023, November 9). The global climate solution Republicans have been looking for. The Hill. https://thehill.com/opinion/congress-blog/4302333-the-global-climate-solution-republicans-have-been-looking-for/?link_id=1&can_id=f7b3e6fd90eca9101d292ebf9f78a645&source=email-climate-week-en-review-talking-turkey&email_referrer=email_2117267&email_subject=climate-week-en-review-talking-turkey 
McDonnell, T., & Zeballos-Roig, J. (2023, March 24). The GOP’s favorite carbon tax. Semafor. https://www.semafor.com/article/03/24/2023/republicans-carbon-border-tariff 
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UN COP Out? Private Jets and Oil Barons Take on Climate Change

Can a nation dependent on oil and gas lead the charge on climate change? That's the question the Green Tea Party hosts grapple with regarding COP28 being held in the UAE. In their signature thought-provoking style, Hannah, Zach and Katie dive into everything from greenwashing to private jet hypocrisy as they analyze the motivations and limitations of COP28's petrostate hosts. While optimistic about global cooperation, their debate asks difficult questions about balancing climate activism and fossil fuel interests - and offers key insights into the intersection of energy and environmental policy.
🗣️ Quotes from Hannah Rogers
"Ironic, isn't it? Here we are, trying to solve climate change, and the very people leading the charge are part of the problem with their private jets."
"It looks fishy, it smells fishy. It's kind of like, if it looks fishy, it smells fishy, it might be a fish. That’s how I feel about these big climate summits."
 "It's these very wealthy people and very powerful people playing the superhero role and then making themselves feel better as if they've actually accomplished something, when in reality, it’s just a show."
🗣️ Quotes from Katie Zakreski
"Hosted by a major oil and gas producer, COP 28 in the UAE is a unique opportunity to demonstrate a real commitment to cutting emissions. But will they? That remains to be seen."
"Kindness will go a long way as an environmentalist. It’s about building bridges, not burning them, and that’s how we’ll get more people on board."
🗣️ Quotes from Zach Torpey
"How many private jets will fly to COP28 given that many attendees will be wealthy elites?"
"Think globally, act locally. That's the mantra we need to adopt. It's not about waiting for these big international summits to solve everything."
Takeaway? 
While COP28 signifies the importance of collaboration on environmental issues, don’t let the folks at COP set the tone for you. You can make a difference in your own community (and probably at a faster pace), regardless of what the big wigs say.
Action Steps: What On Earth Can We Do?
Local Initiatives: "We emphasize the need for local environmental initiatives, advocating for grassroots actions as a counterbalance to the slow progress of international summits."
Community Engagement: "We suggest getting involved in community efforts, promoting the idea that working together at a local level can lead to meaningful change."
Advocacy: "We encourage each other to advocate for change by reaching out to representatives and participating in democratic processes, emphasizing the power of a well-written letter or call to influence policy."
Continued Learning and Adaptation: "We encourage continuous learning and adaptation, recognizing that environmental challenges and solutions evolve over time."
Contact your US House Representative
Contact your US Senators
Learn More
COP28: Everything You Need to Know About the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference
Revealed: UAE plans huge oil and gas expansion as it hosts UN climate summit
COP28: Your Guide to the 2023 UN Climate Conference
2022 Cop27 gets off to delayed start after tussle over agenda for talks
Faith-based Engagement at COP28
COP28 is a moment of truth for the oil and gas industry’s efforts on climate
World Resources Institute COP28 Resource Hub: Research & Data
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Conservative Stewardship and the Future of Energy: Insights from David Jenkins

In the latest episode of Green Tea Party Radio, we had the privilege of hosting David Jenkins, the esteemed president of Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship. Renowned for his profound experience and respected across political aisles, Jenkins shared invaluable insights on environmental conservation and energy policy from a conservative perspective.
David Jenkins: A Voice of Experience and Reason:With years of experience under various administrations, including the Reagan era, David Jenkins brought to our show a wealth of knowledge. His perspective on environmental goals and bipartisan efforts in policy-making highlights the importance of pragmatism in addressing climate and energy challenges.
Embracing Market-Driven Solutions:Jenkins emphasized the need for conservatives to support market-based solutions. He illustrated how the energy market is currently favoring renewable sources like solar, wind, and nuclear energy over traditional coal and natural gas. This market trend aligns well with conservative values of economic prudence and efficiency. Jenkins encourages conservatives to follow market signals, even when they favor renewable energy, showcasing a commitment to free-market principles.
The Case for Clean Energy Standards:Jenkins advocated for state-level clean energy standards as a pragmatic approach to ensure a transition to low-emission energy sources. By setting future clean energy targets, utilities are guided to invest in technologies that align with these goals, fostering innovation without immediate disruption to existing infrastructure.
Conservative Messaging on Environmental Policy:Jenkins pointed out the necessity for updated and accurate messaging around environmental policies. The shift in the energy market towards cheaper renewable sources contradicts the dated narrative that environmental responsibility comes at a financial cost. This new reality presents an opportunity for conservatives to reframe the conversation on environmental policy.
Advice to Young Conservatives:For young conservatives passionate about environmental issues, Jenkins’ advice was clear and powerful: be bold, engage with skeptics, and underpin arguments with core conservative values. He stressed the importance of active participation in discussions and policymaking to influence change effectively.
Fostering a Responsible Future:As the interview concluded, Jenkins shared personal anecdotes and quotes that resonate with the need for a balanced relationship with nature. His favorite national park, Glacier National Park, and quotes from T.S. Eliot and Edmund Burke beautifully encapsulate the conservative philosophy of stewardship and responsibility.
Conclusion:David Jenkins’ insights offer a refreshing and pragmatic conservative perspective on environmental stewardship and energy policy. His emphasis on market-driven solutions and the importance of accurate messaging are crucial takeaways for anyone interested in a conservative approach to environmental issues. As Jenkins aptly demonstrates, conservative values can and should play a vital role in shaping our approach to climate change and energy policy.
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Preserving Our Legacy: David Jenkins on Conservative Environmentalism

In this episode of the Green Tea Party radio show, hosts Zach Torpie and Katie Zakrzewski, along with their guest David Jenkins, President of Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship, dive into a fascinating conversation about conservative solutions to environmental problems.
David Jenkins shares his journey as a lifelong conservative and environmentalist. His love for the great outdoors and passion for responsible stewardship of nature's wonders resonate deeply with his conservative values. He recalls, “I grew up hunting, fishing, and enjoying the great American wilderness, which has been a part of my life as long as I can remember.”
David has worked for CRS, or its predecessor organization REP America (REP), since 2005. For much of that time he served as Vice President for Government & Political Affairs for REP. He has been instrumental in numerous organizational and legislative accomplishments. David has written and spoken extensively about many of today’s most pressing environmental issues, conservatism, our nation’s conservation heritage and American politics.  His writing has appeared in dozens of newspapers and other publications. Prior to CRS and REP, David was the American Canoe Association’s Director of Conservation and Public Policy for 10 years, and before that was on the legislative staff for Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM). He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Furman University. (Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship)
The conversation takes an intriguing turn when discussing the shift in conservative engagement with environmental issues. Jenkins observes, "In the 1980s, plenty of conservatives, including hunters and hikers, cared passionately about the environment. Only more recently, these issues are being put on the back burner, influenced heavily by disinformation from special interests."
This observation opens the door to a critical discussion about the historical roots of environmental stewardship within conservative ideology. Jenkins highlights a forgotten truth: “All of our landmark environmental laws – Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act – are Republican ideas and passed by huge Republican majorities.”
The show underscores the need for conservatives to reclaim their role in environmental advocacy. Jenkins argues, “It's actually acting against self-interest if you don't care about these issues.” He emphasizes the importance of conservative engagement, stating, “If we cede issues like climate change to the left, we have to live with their solutions. We need conservative solutions to these problems.”
In a powerful call to action, Jenkins encourages listeners to educate themselves and engage in advocacy. His book recommendation, The Conservative Mind by Russell Kirk, serves as a foundational text for understanding true conservative values and their alignment with environmental stewardship. You can read it for free at the Kirk Center website. 
As the hosts conclude, they offer practical steps for listeners to get involved, like writing to members of Congress and educating oneself on key issues. This episode of the Green Tea Party radio not only provides a fresh perspective on environmental issues but also empowers listeners to take meaningful action, bridging the gap between conservative values and environmental activism.
This episode of the Green Tea Party radio is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of conservatism and environmentalism. It challenges preconceived notions and opens up a dialogue for new, responsible ways to approach environmental stewardship. Tune in to discover how conservative values can lead the way in protecting our planet for future generations.
 

Elephants, Donkeys, and Liberal Therapists: Young Conservatives and Mental Health

In this episode we discuss why conservatives report being happier than liberals. They explore several reasons including the role of religiosity, community, and values such as stability, personal responsibility, and agency. The conversation touches on the impact of being proactive and having a sense of control over one's life as factors contributing to conservatives' happiness. They suggest that conservative ideology may also foster resilience to adversity and a more constructive response to societal issues like inequality and climate change. Moreover, they critique liberal approaches to activism, emphasizing the need for actionable and lasting changes over symbolic gestures. Katie and Hannah argue that personal responsibility is crucial in environmentalism, promoting individual action rather than succumbing to feelings of futility.
They said what??
"How is chanting something that y'all made up on the way here in the car conducive to long-term change?" -Katie
"There's a lot of data to back up that conservatives are generally happier than liberals are. I mean, I've had my own mental health struggles in my life, and I'm sure you have too, Katie, but just knowing that conservatives tend to be a little bit happier than liberals kind of makes me wonder, why is that?" -Hannah
"Conservative people believe that what they do matters and there's less of a sense of futility. And I feel like that's a really valuable asset when it comes to climate change." -Hannah
Important Links
How to Understand the Well-Being Gap between Liberals and Conservatives by Musa al-Gharbi (American Affairs Journal) 
The article discusses the well-documented well-being gap between liberals and conservatives, focusing on the influence of political ideology on mental health. It explores the reasons behind this gap and the potential impact of the "Great Awokening," a cultural shift towards progressive ideals, on the mental well-being of both liberals and conservatives. The article suggests that while liberalism correlates with higher rates of mental distress, conservatism tends to promote happiness and meaning in life. It examines possible factors, such as genetics, biology, and the influence of liberal ideology on mental health.
 
Key Points:
Conservatives Are Happier: The article highlights a consistent trend in happiness levels, with conservatives generally reporting higher levels of happiness and meaning in their lives compared to liberals. This pattern extends across different age groups and geographical contexts.
Possible Explanations for the Happiness Gap: Several theories are presented to explain why conservatives tend to be happier. These include the influence of religiosity, patriotism, marriage, attractiveness, health, and cognitive ability. Some suggest that conservatives' focus on personal responsibility and agency contributes to their happiness.
Challenges to the Privilege Narrative: The article challenges the idea that the happiness gap is solely due to privilege, as wealth increasingly correlates with liberal political views. Immigrants, minorities, and senior citizens, who may not fit the privilege narrative, also experience happiness benefits from conservatism.
Resilience and Adversity: Conservatism and related factors like religiosity and patriotism may help individuals make sense of and respond constructively to adversity and inequality, regardless of their social standing.
In summary, the article explores the persistent happiness gap between conservatives and liberals, offering various perspectives on why this gap exists and challenging the notion that privilege alone explains the difference in well-being. It suggests that conservatism and related ideologies may provide individuals with tools to navigate challenges and maintain happiness, especially in the face of adversity.
 
Politics seep into daily life, negatively affecting mental health (American Psychological Association) 
The article discusses research published by the American Psychological Association that examines the impact of daily political news on people's mental health and well-being, as well as the potential trade-offs between personal well-being and political engagement. Here's a summary of the key points and action steps someone can take to look after their mental health in the context of political stress:
Summary:
- Daily exposure to political news can negatively affect individuals' mental health and well-being.
- While strategies like distracting oneself from political news can help manage negative emotions, they may reduce motivation to engage in political causes.
- The study found that thinking about daily political events often evokes negative emotions, leading to worse psychological and physical health but greater motivation to take political action.
- Strategies such as distraction and cognitive reappraisal can help manage negative emotions, but they may indirectly reduce the desire to participate in political activities.
- Politics has a significant daily impact on many Americans' health and well-being.
- Activists and individuals need to find strategies to protect their own well-being without compromising collective well-being.
Braver Angels is leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to change our politics for the better. Through community gatherings, real debates, and grassroots leaders working together, we’re offering America what it needs to overcome the bitterness of our partisan divide.
How to Take Care of Yourself in the Midst of Partisan Politics
Conservatives concerned about environmental issues face unique challenges in a predominantly liberal age group. To be effective advocates for their beliefs and well-being, they should consider the following specific considerations:
Educate Yourself: Ensure you have a strong understanding of conservative environmental policies and principles. This will enable you to articulate your views clearly and engage in informed discussions.
Seek Like-Minded Communities: Look for conservative environmental groups or organizations where you can connect with individuals who share your beliefs and values. This can provide a supportive community and opportunities for collaboration.
Bridge Building: Consider finding common ground with liberals on environmental issues. Emphasize shared goals like clean air and water, conservation, and sustainable resource management to foster productive discussions.
Resilience and Self-Care: Understand that advocating for a less mainstream position can be emotionally taxing. Practice self-care and resilience-building techniques to maintain your well-being in the face of potential alienation or criticism.
Effective Communication: Hone your communication skills to effectively convey your conservative environmental stance. Focus on presenting evidence-based arguments and framing issues in a way that resonates with your audience.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of current environmental developments, research, and policy changes. Being well-informed allows you to respond to new information and adapt your advocacy efforts accordingly.
Advocate for Conservative Solutions: Actively promote conservative policies and solutions for environmental challenges. Be prepared to propose and support initiatives that align with your beliefs.
Build Alliances: Seek opportunities to collaborate with individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds who share your environmental concerns. Building alliances can amplify your advocacy efforts.
Respect Differences: Recognize that people have varying perspectives, and it's essential to respect differing viewpoints even when engaging in passionate debates about environmental issues.
Persistence: Understand that advocacy for conservative environmentalism may require persistence and a long-term commitment. Change often takes time, and perseverance can lead to positive outcomes.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate your commitment to conservative environmental values through personal actions, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices in your daily life.
Stay True to Your Values: Don't compromise your core beliefs to fit in with a particular group or ideology. Authenticity in your advocacy is crucial.
Remember that advocating for conservative environmentalism in a predominantly liberal environment can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to contribute a unique perspective to the conversation. By taking care of yourself and staying committed to your values, you can be a more effective advocate for conservative environmental principles.

Shein Dresses, Prosperity Gospels, and Jesus the Environmentalist

In this episode of Green Tea Party Radio, the hosts, Hannah and Katie, discuss the intersection of faith and environmentalism. Hannah shares her perspective as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and how her faith has influenced her environmental work. She highlights the importance of the Word of Wisdom, a health and ethical code in her church, which encourages moderation in meat consumption. Hannah's love for animals and her belief in Jesus Christ's teachings on compassion play a significant role in her commitment to environmentalism.
 "I think a lot about gratitude and how the more gratitude I practice, the less insecure I am and the more I recognize how much of a blessing it is to be alive." - Hannah
The conversation also delves into the role of religion in promoting environmental awareness and community engagement. Both hosts emphasize the need for religious institutions to focus on the core values of love, compassion, and community rather than material wealth. They discuss how churches can serve as platforms for environmental initiatives, bringing people together and fostering connections that can lead to positive change.
“Just go sit out in nature, dude. Just sit by a lake for a while and look at the stuff, and you'll feel better, and it's free." -Katie
Moral Issues Raised in the Episode
Materialism and Consumerism: The episode discusses the negative impact of materialism and consumerism on the environment, highlighting the wastefulness and exploitation associated with excessive consumption.
Ego and Social Media: The hosts discuss how social media can contribute to ego-driven behavior, where individuals seek validation and self-worth through material possessions and online attention.
Gratitude and Fulfillment: The importance of practicing gratitude and finding fulfillment in simpler aspects of life is emphasized as an alternative to materialistic pursuits.
Religious Values and Environmental Responsibility: The episode explores the connection between faith, compassion, and environmental stewardship, raising questions about the role of religious institutions in promoting environmental awareness and action.
Injustice and Exploitation: The hosts highlight the injustice and exploitation associated with fast fashion and the production of goods in a manner that harms vulnerable and impoverished populations.
Summary Outline for Action Steps
Promote Gratitude and Simplicity: Encourage individuals to practice gratitude for the simple joys of life and recognize the finite nature of unique experiences. Emphasize that fulfillment can be found in appreciating everyday blessings.
Raise Awareness: Educate individuals about the environmental impact of consumerism, particularly in areas like fast fashion and excessive online shopping.
Community Engagement: Encourage participation in environmental initiatives within religious communities, such as trail cleanups, clean air challenges, and other sustainability efforts.
Environmental Advocacy: Advocate for the integration of environmental values and principles within religious teachings and institutions, fostering a sense of responsibility for environmental stewardship among faith communities.
Respect for Creation: Emphasize the importance of respecting and caring for the natural world as a reflection of faith values and a moral obligation.
Challenging Materialism: Promote a shift away from materialistic pursuits and the constant need for more, highlighting the potential for a more meaningful and sustainable life when one values simplicity and gratitude.
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Tomato Soup Stunts vs. Climate Reality: A Candid Discussion

In a world where climate change and environmental concerns are increasingly part of the national discourse, it's crucial to explore how conservative values align with activism in this space. Hannah and Zach, two dynamic new voices in the conservative movement engage in a thought-provoking podcast conversation about climate activism. 
The Tomato Soup Scenario:
The conversation kicks off with a playful hypothetical scenario: what if someone threw tomato soup onto a priceless piece of art in your home? Hannah and Zach bring a conservative perspective to this thought experiment, underscoring the connection between this bizarre act and the importance of climate change. 
Conservative Values in Climate Activism:
Hannah and Zach navigate the landscape of climate activism through a conservative lens. They discuss how conservative principles like limited government intervention, personal responsibility, and local control can play a vital role in crafting effective climate policies. They emphasize that climate action doesn't have to mean sacrificing conservative values; rather, it can align with them.
Local Engagement and Environmental Stewardship:
One of the core themes of the conversation is the power of local engagement and environmental stewardship. Hannah and Zach highlight the importance of acting at the community level. Whether it's supporting local initiatives, advocating for cleaner energy solutions, or conserving natural resources, they showcase how conservative principles can be applied to address climate challenges.
Effective Conversations with Lawmakers:
The hosts stress the significance of conservatives engaging in meaningful conversations with lawmakers. They encourage fellow conservatives to voice their concerns and ideas about climate policies, fostering a constructive dialogue. The message is clear: conservatives can be active participants in shaping climate-related legislation that aligns with their values.
Practical Activism Over Self-Congratulation:
Hannah and Zach critique forms of activism that prioritize self-congratulation over tangible results. They advocate for practical activism that focuses on real-world solutions and outcomes rather than seeking recognition. Their approach aligns with conservative values of efficiency and effectiveness.
Conclusion:
Hannah and Zach's conversation offers a fresh perspective on climate activism from a conservative standpoint. It's a reminder that individuals with conservative values can play a meaningful role in addressing climate change without compromising their principles.
In a time when climate action requires broad support across the political spectrum, their discussion provides a blueprint for young conservatives eager to make a difference. By embracing local engagement, fostering conversations with lawmakers, and prioritizing practical solutions, conservatives can be influential agents of positive change in the realm of climate activism.