Issues

Climate and the Environment

Content from Council experts related to climate change and environmental protections. 

Past Events

Built to Last: Creating Climate Resilient Communities

PAST EVENT VIDEO

In the lead-up to COP30, Kristina Costa, Jennifer Uchendu, Kobi Weinberg, and Elizabeth Andrews discuss global lessons in urban climate resilience and Chicago's potential as a climate refuge.

Nov 6
Speakers on the Council Stage
Ana Miyares Photography

Securing a Sustainable Future in a Polarized Era

PAST EVENT VIDEO

Alex Kruzel and Patrick Shewell discuss how business leaders can navigate policy shifts to stay the course on driving climate action.

Apr 10
Patrick Shewell and Alex Kruzel on the Council stage.
Ana Miyares Photography
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Commentary

Heat Waves in Europe and the US Reveal Climate Adaptation Limits

Analysis
by Joshua Busby

Humanity cannot simply air condition every setting.

A man on a train wipes sweat from his face on a hot day in London, Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
Kin Cheung / AP
Climate and the Environment

Why the War in Iran Prompted a Global Energy Crisis—and How it Might End

Analysis
by Coauthors

The widening conflict in the Middle East underscores the recurrent vulnerability of fossil fuel energy systems—and why a pivot to renewables is critical.

A UPS truck driver stands in transit as gasoline prices are advertised at over seven dollars a gallon at a gas station downtown Los Angeles Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
Damian Dovarganes / AP
Global Politics
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Research

Despite Trump Withdrawal, Americans Back Paris Climate Agreement

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Lama El Baz

Most Americans—including a majority of Republicans—favor a range of measures to reverse or adapt to climate change.

A pumpjack operates in the foreground while a wind turbine at the Buckeye Wind Energy wind farm rises in the distance
Charlie Riedel / AP
Public Opinion

Republicans and Democrats Continue to Clash over Climate Change

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Lama El Baz

But a majority of Americans support efforts to mitigate its effects.

A climate activist continues to chant while under arrest
AP Photos
Public Opinion
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Experts

Fay Hartog-Levin 

Distinguished Fellow, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Council expert Fay Hartog-Levin
Expertise
Europe
Climate and the Environment
Global Politics
Phone
(312) 821-7529

Michael Tiboris 

Nonresident Fellow, Global Water, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Council expert Michael Tiboris
Expertise
Food and Agriculture
Climate and the Environment
Social Media
View all Climate and the Environment Experts