50 States, 50 Fixes - The Daily Recap

Podcast: The Daily

Published: 2026-01-02

Duration: 26 minutes

Guests: Cara Buckley, Catrin Einhorn

Summary

The episode explores local and state-level initiatives across the US that tackle environmental issues, emphasizing the importance of grassroots efforts amid federal policy rollbacks.

What Happened

Cara Buckley and Catrin Einhorn of The New York Times discuss their project '50 States, 50 Fixes', highlighting local environmental solutions across the US. Cara Buckley shares her transition from culture reporting to climate journalism, driven by a desire to focus on solutions rather than just problems. The project aimed to find a unique environmental success story in each state, showcasing how local efforts can lead to significant impacts.

One notable story involves Eric Chamberlain from Missouri, who initiated a wind energy project, leading to a local economic revival through renewable energy. The project now supports numerous jobs and generates substantial tax revenue. Another story from Montana highlights the use of livestock guardian dogs to protect farms from grizzly bears, showcasing a return to ancient practices for coexistence with wildlife.

The episode also discusses the Standing Rock tribe's efforts to install EV chargers across their lands, funded by a Department of Energy grant, as part of an intertribal network to promote fossil fuel independence. In Pittsburgh, an innovative approach to reducing light pollution has been implemented, with dimmable streetlights controlled via phone apps, leading to significant energy savings.

The guests emphasize that many of these solutions transcend politics, focusing instead on practical benefits such as economic savings and improved community health. They acknowledge that some people avoid discussing climate change due to its politicization, yet the drive for clean air and water unites communities across the political spectrum.

Cara and Catrin reflect on the optimism they found in local initiatives, aligning with Jane Goodall's idea that everyday actions make a difference. They conclude that despite the daunting global challenges, localized efforts provide hope and tangible solutions.

Key Insights

• A wind energy project in Missouri led by Eric Chamberlain has revitalized the local economy, creating numerous jobs and generating significant tax revenue through renewable energy.
• In Montana, farmers use livestock guardian dogs to protect against grizzly bears, reviving ancient practices for wildlife coexistence and reducing livestock losses.
• The Standing Rock tribe is installing EV chargers across their lands with a Department of Energy grant, forming part of an intertribal network aimed at reducing fossil fuel dependence.
• Pittsburgh has implemented dimmable streetlights controlled via phone apps to combat light pollution, resulting in notable energy savings and reduced environmental impact.