This episode explores the dual challenge facing global climate action: not only are emission reductions and natural carbon sinks increasingly insufficient to stabilize our climate, but every potential solution must address core questions of justice and equity. The discussion focuses on large-scale climate interventions like solar radiation modification and marine cloud brightening, asking whether these emergency measures could prevent catastrophic warming—while emphasizing that those most affected by climate impacts are often the least responsible for them.
This video was recorded on November 19th, 2025, and published on November 23rd, 2025, and represents the opinions of the discussion participants.
Climate justice principles—centering marginalized communities, safeguarding indigenous rights, and ensuring intergenerational fairness—are woven throughout the debate, urging viewers to weigh technological solutions against their societal and ethical consequences.
As the dialogue unfolds, the panel confronts the risks of acting on incomplete knowledge, the ethical dilemmas of geoengineering, and the real danger of further entrenching inequality through “emergency brake” interventions. The need for caution, transparency in research, and inclusive decision-making are foregrounded alongside the technical possibilities. The conversation highlights both skepticism and urgency: how to proceed safely and fairly if the pace of warming outstrips conventional mitigation, and how to prevent powerful interests from dictating the future course of climate interventions.
Viewers will hear why emission cuts remain vital, but may not suffice on their own, and will be invited to reflect on what a just approach to planetary repair could look like. This episode calls for open public discussion, strong advocacy for vulnerable populations, and youth leadership in shaping climate policy. Add your thoughts below, subscribe for future episodes, and join our mission for a climate-safe and equitable future at climateemergencyforum.org.
Professor Hugh Hunt - is Reader in Engineering at the Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, and Chair of the Cambridge Climate Lecture Series. He was Co-PI of the SPICE Project which investigated the feasibility of stratospheric aerosol injection for Solar Radiation Management (SRM). Hugh is a leader in public engagement for science and engineering and a recipient of the RAEng Rooke Award.
Raya Salter - is an attorney, energy policy expert, and a leading voice in the climate justice movement. She is the founder of the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center, served on the New York State Climate Action Council, and co-edited the book “Energy Justice: US and International Perspectives.” Raya is recognized for her powerful advocacy to center marginalized communities, indigenous rights, and intergenerational equity in all climate solutions.
Dr. Peter Carter - MD, Expert IPCC Reviewer and the director of the Climate Emergency Institute
Paul Beckwith - Climate Systems Scientist. Professor at the University of Ottawa’s Paleoclimatology Laboratory as well as at Carleton University
Herb Simmens - Author, Co-founder of the Healthy Planet Action Coalition (HPAC), Climate Emergency Board Member and former college instructor.
Charles Gregoire - Electrical Engineer, Webmaster and IT prime for FacingFuture.Earth & the Climate Emergency Forum; Climate Reality Leader
Heidi Brault - Climate Reality Leader, BA(Psychology), Library & Information Technician Diploma - Video production and website assistant - Organizer and convener, Metadata technician, COP Team Lead for FacingFuture.Earth and the Climate Emergency Forum.
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