Events

Debatable: Climate Action Needs American Political Leadership

Photo by rarrarorro on iStock

Date and Time

September 23, 2024
5:00 pm-8:00 pm EDT

Location

New York

Kick off Climate Week NYC with an event that challenges the status quo. Join BSR and Kite Insights for a timely debate on whether American political leadership is crucial for advancing global climate action and shaping climate policies.

Since WWII, the U.S. has been the world’s “indispensable nation,” wielding unparalleled influence in the global economy and geopolitics. Today, as the world’s largest economy, America’s reach extends through business, culture, and military strength. But with deep polarization, neo-isolationism, and political uncertainty, is its leadership too fragmented to drive global climate action? Or is the U.S. still the key to leading the charge against the climate crisis, promoting global cooperation, and driving investments in a clean energy economy?

This debate goes beyond politics—it’s about the future of our planet. First, you will engage in a thought-provoking session on the power of creative leadership with Tim Brown, Chair of IDEO, who will reveal why creativity is essential for both climate impact and business growth. Then, dive into the debate that will leave you questioning where the true power for climate action lies. End the evening with cocktails and networking alongside fellow leaders dedicated to sustainability.

BSR and Kite Insights logo

This event is hosted in collaboration with BSR, IDEO, Kite Insights, kyu House, and The New York Times as our media partner. Space is limited.

Scheduled Speakers

  • Sophie Lambin, Chief Executive and Founder, Kite Insights & The Climate School (Moderator)
  • Paul Van Zyl, Founder, The Conduit (Moderator)
  • Gerry Butts, Vice Chairman, Eurasia Group (Debater)
  • Aron Cramer, President and CEO, BSR (Debater)
  • Sandrine Dixson-Declève, Project Lead, Earth4All (Debater)
  • Dr. Kirsten Dunlop, CEO, ClimateKIC (Debater)
  • Dr. Genevieve Guenther, Founding Director, End of Climate Silence (Debater)
  • Clover Hogan, Climate Activist and Author (Debater)
  • Azeem Azar, Exponential View (Jury)
  • Tim Brown, Chair, IDEO (Jury)
  • Ivan Duque, Former President of Colombia (Jury)

 Events Page