Can bold policy and innovative engineering reverse one of the world’s worst land loss crises?

In this episode of A Climate Change, we speak with Peter Waggonner, Senior Policy Adviser for Greater New Orleans Inc., about Louisiana’s urgent battle to stop coastal erosion, and how a $50 billion restoration plan is reshaping environmental policy. Peter also discusses the threats of saltwater intrusion and urgency for flood insurance reform to protect climate-vulnerable regions. 

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Peter Wagoner is a Senior Policy Adviser at Greater New Orleans Inc. (GNO Inc.), specializing in coastal resilience, flood insurance policy, and environmental conservation. With extensive experience in municipal infrastructure and climate adaptation, he leads critical initiatives including the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance (CSFI), and works to address Louisiana's unprecedented land loss crisis. Following his formative experience during Hurricane Katrina, Peter has dedicated his career to developing innovative solutions for coastal protection and sustainable development, including work with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) covering 19 million people. His expertise in building collaborative partnerships between environmental organizations, energy companies, and government agencies has been instrumental in advancing Louisiana's $50 billion, 50-year coastal master plan. 

Greater New Orleans, Inc. is the regional economic development nonprofit organization serving the 10-parish region of Southeast Louisiana that includes Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington parishes. Our mission is to create a region with a thriving economy and an excellent quality of life for everyone. The ultimate indication of our success will be the presence of a robust, accessible, and growing middle class in Southeast Louisiana, where our children and grandchildren can live and prosper.

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

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The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.

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