The White House Effect takes a captivating look at a turning point in the climate crisis.
Using only archival footage, the film reveals how a major chance to act on global warming was not only missed but actively blocked during George H.W. Bush’s presidency (1988–1992). As the country woke up to the reality of climate change, Bush promised to use “the White House effect”—a play on words referencing the greenhouse effect—to lead the way. Yet he found himself pulled between industry allies and government scientists.
The White House Effect follows the rising tension between these players to the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, where the US weakened a global effort to set real limits on emissions. Discover how decisions made more than 30 years ago shaped the climate future we face today. (94 mins., DCP)
Stay after the screening for a conversation and Q&A.
Wed, Apr 22 • 7:00 pm
Pizza
Vegan
Cafe-Coffee
Ice Cream
Bakery
Deli-Sandwiches