It may not be the flashiest environmental issue, but it appears that permitting reform could be the hot topic of the summer, with both Republican and Democratic legislators putting forth proposals. The concern is clear: while it’s important to determine whether or not new energy projects will harm the environment, it’s also detrimental to climate progress if clean energy projects are held up for several years by a slow, tedious permitting process. Politicians on both sides appear interested in finding a plan that dramatically speeds up permitting without sacrificing environmental protection or public input. If successful, permitting reform has the opportunity to supercharge climate action in the United States. In this week’s “Tip of the Iceberg,” Ethan explores what permitting regulations are currently in place, what the pros and cons have been, and why despite lots of partisan bickering today, permitting reform offers a golden opportunity for the two parties to find common ground.

The Sweaty Penguin is presented by Peril and Promise: a public media initiative from The WNET Group in New York, reporting on the issues and solutions around climate change. You can learn more at pbs.org/perilandpromise.

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CREDITS

Writers: Ethan Brown, Velina Georgi, Mo Polyak, Madeleine Salman
Fact Checker: Hallie Cordingley
Editor: Megan Antone
Producers: Ethan Brown, Hallie Cordingley, Shannon Damiano
Ad Voiceover: Mo Polyak
Music: Brett Sawka

The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of Peril and Promise or The WNET Group.