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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Jarand Rystad, CEO of Rystad Energy, to take a hard look at where we are in the global energy transition and whether we’re moving fast enough to meet climate targets.
We discuss:
How disruptive technologies are reshaping the energy landscape – and why the transition would happen even without climate concerns.Why solar, wind, and battery technologies are now economically outcompeting fossil fuels.The China paradox – leading the world in renewables while still expanding coal power.Whether current momentum is fast enough to keep warming below 1.5°C.The overlooked challenges – from sustainable aviation fuel to long-duration energy storage.The role of policy and regulation in shaping the speed and direction of the transition.We also touch on AI’s rising energy demand, how agrivoltaics and floating solar could resolve land use concerns, and why hydrogen won’t be the all-encompassing energy solution some envision.
Rystad brings data-driven insights into what’s working, where we’re lagging, and the key economic and technological trends shaping the future of energy. If you want a clear-eyed analysis of the energy transition, this episode is a must-listen.
🎧 Listen now!
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Factory farming isn’t just an animal welfare issue—it’s a major driver of climate change, biodiversity loss, and public health risks. In this episode of Climate Confident, I speak with Thom Norman, co-founder of FarmKind, to break down the true environmental costs of industrial animal agriculture and explore solutions.
We discuss:
✅ How factory farming contributes up to 19% of global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through methane, deforestation, and fertiliser use.
✅ The inefficiencies of animal agriculture—80% of cropland is used to feed livestock, yet it provides only 17% of global calorie intake.
✅ The role of antibiotic overuse in factory farming and its link to rising antimicrobial resistance.
✅ Why shifting to alternative proteins—such as plant-based and cultivated meat—could significantly reduce emissions and land use.
✅ The effectiveness of corporate campaigns in driving industry-wide change, such as the transition away from caged eggs.We also discuss consumer choices and why the focus shouldn’t just be on individuals but on systemic change—better policies, clear food labelling, and investment in sustainable food innovation.
If you’re interested in supporting impactful organisations tackling factory farming, Thom shares how FarmKind helps direct funding to the most effective charities.
🎧 Tune in to learn how rethinking food production can cut emissions and improve global health.
🔗 Links & Resources:
FarmKind: FarmKind.Giving
Compassion Calculator: CompassionCalculator.org👉 Follow the podcast for new episodes every Wednesday!
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Ollie Burch, a communications strategist and co-founder of Among Equals, to dive into the thorny but crucial issue of climate communications. How can we engage more people in the fight against climate change, and why are so many efforts to do so falling flat? Ollie, with his background in behavioural science and sustainability communications, offers fresh insights into what’s gone wrong—and, more importantly, how we can fix it.
One of the key takeaways from our conversation is that much of the current climate messaging is preaching to the choir. Ollie argues that climate communications have been framed largely through a progressive lens, unintentionally alienating large segments of the population. The solution? A shift towards messaging that resonates across political and cultural divides, leveraging behavioural psychology to make climate action feel relevant to everyday lives.
We also discuss the critical concept of psychological distance. Many people see climate change as a distant issue—whether geographically, socially, or temporally—making it difficult to inspire meaningful action. Ollie suggests that communicators need to focus on the here and now: how climate impacts things people care about, like their local environment, daily routines, or even their morning coffee.
Other highlights include:
Why reframing climate action as patriotic or grounded in personal values can bridge political divides.The importance of moving from anxiety-inducing messaging to practical, solution-oriented communications.How simplifying messages (think: “Get Brexit Done”) and tapping into social norms can be powerful tools for change.If you’re involved in climate communications, policymaking, or simply trying to make a difference, this episode offers actionable advice and a critical lens on how to communicate effectively about the most pressing issue of our time. Give it a listen, and let me know what you think!
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Angelo Campus, the CEO and co-founder of BoxPower, to explore the transformative potential of microgrids in building resilient and sustainable energy systems.
Angelo shares his journey from growing up at the edge of the grid in rural Northern California to founding a company that develops microgrids powered by solar, batteries, and backup generators. These systems are delivering power to underserved communities, disaster-stricken regions, and rural areas where traditional grid infrastructure is too costly or unreliable.
We delve into the surprising shift that brought BoxPower’s solutions back to the US, where ageing grid infrastructure and rising wildfire risks have utilities rethinking their approach to energy delivery. Angelo explains how microgrids can replace end-of-line infrastructure, reduce wildfire risks, and cut costs for utilities—all while increasing renewable energy use.
Key takeaways from the conversation include:
The economic tipping point where microgrids become more cost-effective than traditional distribution systems.The role of microgrids in improving energy access for tribal communities and disaster relief efforts.Why current battery technologies, though promising, still require complementary solutions like backup generators in certain climates.How utility collaboration and regulatory reform are essential to scaling distributed energy solutions.Angelo also provides a frank critique of clean tech investment trends, calling for more focus on infrastructure innovation over pure software solutions. His pragmatism about integrating existing technologies to combat climate change is refreshing.
Tune in to hear how microgrids could redefine our approach to energy in a rapidly warming world.
Links and Resources:
Visit BoxPower for more on their microgrid solutions.Connect with Angelo on LinkedIn or follow BoxPower on social media.Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review!Let me know what you think of this episode—get in touch via LinkedIn or email at [email protected].
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this week's episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Anders Lindberg, President of Wärtsilä Energy, to unpack the complexities of the global energy transition. Wärtsilä has a wealth of insight into how we can move towards a 100% renewable energy future—without breaking the bank.
Anders and I dive into the often-overlooked need for flexibility in energy systems. While solar and wind energy have become cheaper and more widespread, integrating them effectively into existing grids is far from straightforward. Anders explains how Wärtsilä’s grid-balancing engines and battery storage solutions can work together to stabilise energy supply, preventing curtailment and ensuring renewables deliver maximum impact.
We explore why relying solely on renewables and battery storage leads to significantly higher costs, using Chile as a case study where a more balanced system could save $17 billion in investment. Anders also tackles the future of green hydrogen, acknowledging its promise while stressing it won’t scale up meaningfully until 2035 or later. In the meantime, he makes the case for natural gas as a transitional fuel, with Wärtsilä’s engines already primed to run on sustainable fuels when they become viable.
Key takeaways from this episode:
Flexibility is critical: Balancing technologies like batteries and flexible engine power plants are essential for integrating renewables efficiently.Curtailment hurts progress: Inflexible grids force renewables offline, undermining their financial viability and prolonging fossil fuel reliance.Future-proof investments: Wärtsilä’s hydrogen-ready engines ensure today’s investments won’t become stranded assets tomorrow.Policy matters: Anders highlights how regulatory environments, like Texas' nodal pricing and the Texas Energy Fund, can either accelerate or hinder the energy transition.If you’re interested in how we can accelerate decarbonisation while maintaining energy security and controlling costs, this conversation offers plenty to consider.
For more on Wärtsilä’s work in shaping the future of energy, check out their website [insert link], or connect with Anders Lindberg on LinkedIn.
Thanks for tuning in—let’s stay climate confident!
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Charlie Angelakos, Global VP of External Affairs and Sustainability at McCain Foods, to delve into the company’s ambitious goal of achieving 100% regenerative agriculture by 2030. With a direct relationship with 3,500 farmers globally and a commitment to farming in harmony with nature, McCain is tackling the twin challenges of climate resilience and sustainable food production.
Charlie provides a detailed breakdown of regenerative agriculture as McCain defines it—focusing on improving soil health, reducing emissions, and minimising reliance on synthetic inputs. He shares insights from their Farms of the Future initiative, where McCain tests and refines regenerative practices to share successes (and failures) with their farmer partners. Early results are encouraging, with emissions down 30% and fertiliser use reduced by 17% at their New Brunswick farm.
One key takeaway is the importance of partnerships. McCain collaborates closely with farmers, providing training, financial incentives, and long-term contracts to support the transition to regenerative methods. Charlie also highlights the role of broader collaboration across the food industry to standardise metrics and reduce pressure on farmers.
We also touch on educating consumers about the benefits of regenerative agriculture. From launching interactive tools to engaging advertising campaigns, McCain is making strides in closing the awareness gap.
Tune in to hear why regenerative agriculture isn’t just about climate—it’s about building a resilient, sustainable food system that works for both farmers and the planet.
Find links to McCain's sustainability initiatives, including their Hot Potato podcast here.
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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This year-end episode of Climate Confident takes a deep dive into the most impactful insights from 2024. With 47 episodes of inspiring conversations, we explore the technological breakthroughs, systemic strategies, and collaborative efforts shaping climate action.
Highlights include Dragonfly Energy’s game-changing battery tech, Neara’s grid optimisation solutions, and regenerative agriculture practices from eAgrinom. We also discuss collaborative initiatives like the Dairy Methane Action Alliance and the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, showing the power of working together for real impact.
From innovative tools like Karma Wallet to storytelling-driven approaches by EcoAthletes, we see how individuals are driving change. On the policy front, the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act has been pivotal, while sovereign wealth funds and carbon-backed currencies hint at the future of climate finance.
As we head into 2025, I challenge you: What role will you play in the climate comeback? Every action matters. Join me in January for more insights as we continue building a sustainable future.
Enjoy the holidays, and let’s keep the momentum going!
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this special episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Stephan Müller from SAP to explore a major development in sustainability and finance – the newly launched SAP Green Ledger. Stephan, a finance expert at SAP, explains how this tool applies the same rigorous accounting principles used in finance to carbon emissions, offering companies a new level of transparency and trust in their sustainability reporting.
We discuss why CFOs are increasingly being seen as "Chief Value Officers", balancing financial performance with sustainability outcomes. Stephan makes a strong case that trustworthy carbon data isn’t just about compliance with regulations like CSRD or ISSB – it’s also a competitive advantage. More accurate, auditable data can help identify carbon hotspots, guide investments, and ultimately reduce emissions more effectively.
Key takeaways include:
Why sustainability reporting is landing on the CFO’s desk and how it's reshaping finance teams.How carbon budgets can be integrated into a company’s operations, alongside financial budgets, to target emissions reduction where it matters most.The role of solutions like SAP's Green Ledger in ensuring traceable and auditable carbon data – critical for avoiding accusations of greenwashing.We also touch on the broader implications of accurate carbon accounting, from attracting investment to reducing recruitment costs, as employees increasingly seek out purpose-driven employers.
If you’re a finance leader, sustainability officer, or just curious about the future of carbon reporting, this episode will give you a clear sense of where it’s all headed.
For more on SAP’s Green Ledger, check out sap.com/greenledger. As always, you can find me on LinkedIn to share your thoughts – is carbon accounting the next big thing for finance?
Listen now and stay climate confident. 🌍
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Katie Anderson, Senior Director at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF). Katie leads efforts to drive climate action in the food and agriculture supply chain, making her an incredible resource on a topic we need to tackle urgently: methane emissions in agriculture.
Methane, a potent but short-lived greenhouse gas, is responsible for a significant portion of agricultural emissions. Katie explains why addressing methane is not only crucial for curbing global warming but also an opportunity to improve resilience in the food system. We dive into the critical role of the dairy industry, which accounts for a significant share of methane emissions, and explore actionable solutions such as improved herd management, better manure management techniques, and innovative feed additives like Bovair.
Katie also shares insights into the Dairy Methane Action Alliance, a coalition of major food and agriculture companies—including Nestlé, Danone, and General Mills—working together to measure, manage, and reduce methane emissions across their supply chains. We discuss how these companies collaborate to address barriers like financing and farmer engagement while sending a strong demand signal for low-emission practices.
Key takeaways include the need for globally scalable, yet locally tailored, approaches to methane reduction and the critical importance of farmer-to-farmer learning. We also chat about exciting innovations like methane-reducing cattle feed and genetic advancements to breed lower-emission livestock.
If you're curious about how cutting-edge solutions and collective action are shaping a more sustainable agricultural future, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
For more, visit business.edf.org/DMAA or connect with Katie on LinkedIn.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Chris Kruger, founder of AYK Energy, a leader in marine battery innovation. Together, we delved into the exciting yet challenging world of maritime electrification and the technologies driving its growth.
Chris shared insights into the evolution of marine batteries, from their humble beginnings powering communications systems to today's sophisticated propulsion applications. We discussed why lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries are emerging as the preferred choice for safety and cost-effectiveness, even as legacy technologies like NMC continue to dominate in some corners of the sector.
A key takeaway was the potential of containerised battery solutions, which could revolutionise short-sea shipping by offering flexibility and scalability. Chris drew parallels between these modular systems and the old stagecoach model—simply swap in fresh batteries, and you’re ready to go. It’s a clever way to overcome range limitations while easing infrastructure challenges.
We also explored the comparative merits of green fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia versus batteries. While hydrogen holds promise for long-distance voyages, Chris highlighted batteries’ superior efficiency and practicality for short-sea routes. He also shed light on the role of hybrid systems as a stepping stone toward full electrification.
Looking to the future, Chris explained how advances like solid-state batteries could transform marine electrification entirely, potentially enabling transoceanic voyages. It’s a bit further off, but the trajectory is promising.
Finally, we touched on the broader decarbonisation landscape and how companies like AYK Energy are making sustainable solutions affordable and accessible by leveraging economies of scale in manufacturing.
Whether you’re an industry insider or just curious about maritime innovation, this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful look at the technologies shaping a greener future for shipping.
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by John Lang, Project Lead at the Net Zero Tracker and a leading figure in the fight for transparency and accountability in climate action. Together, we explore the complexities behind net zero commitments and unpack what’s needed to transform promises into meaningful results.
John explains the work of the Net Zero Tracker, which monitors over 4,000 entities worldwide—including countries, companies, cities, and regions—on their progress (or lack thereof) towards achieving net zero. He sheds light on a troubling reality: while ambition is on the rise, integrity is still lagging behind. Shockingly, only 1 in 20 entities meet the minimum procedural requirements for credible net zero targets.
We also delve into the role of subnational governments—regions and cities—in driving climate action, particularly in the face of national inaction. John outlines how aligning local and national policies (what he calls "vertical governance") and fostering ambition loops can accelerate progress.
A key takeaway from this episode is the persistent confusion around net zero standards, which allows some entities to hide behind weak targets. John stresses the urgent need for standardisation and convergence, which could close the gaps in accountability.
Finally, we discuss practical ways individuals can make a difference, from talking about climate change to pushing for systemic change, whether through politics or their personal spheres of influence.
This conversation is a compelling reminder of the challenges we face, but also the power of collective action in moving the needle on climate goals.
Have a listen, and let’s keep this vital conversation going!
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr Ana Nacvalovaite, a research fellow at the University of Oxford’s Kellogg College Centre for Mutual and Co-Owned Business. Ana brought a wealth of insight into a fascinating and complex topic: the role of sovereign wealth funds in advancing sustainability, tackling climate change, and driving equitable global development.
We started with the basics—what sovereign wealth funds are and why they matter. Think of them as government-managed investment funds, often backed by surplus revenues from resources like oil, which aim to secure economic stability for future generations. But, as Ana explains, their influence extends well beyond national borders. With trillions of dollars under management, these funds are increasingly pivotal in shaping ESG (environmental, social, and governance) strategies and supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
We explored how sovereign wealth funds from countries like Norway, the UAE, and China are pivoting towards green technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure. Ana also shared why transparency varies so much between funds and how geopolitical strategies can limit what the public—and sometimes even stakeholders—can access.
Of course, we didn’t shy away from the challenges. Greenwashing, the lack of global standards, and the delicate balance between profitability and sustainability were all on the table. Ana explained how sovereign wealth funds can be both a force for good and a source of contention in developing countries, particularly in regions with weaker regulatory frameworks.
By the end of our conversation, one thing was clear: sovereign wealth funds are not just passive players in global finance; they’re active architects of a sustainable future. Whether it’s mitigating climate risks or funding net-zero technologies, their potential is enormous, but so too are the responsibilities that come with managing such immense capital.
For anyone interested in sustainability, global finance, or the interplay between economics and climate action, this episode offers a wealth of insights. Have a listen and let me know what you think!
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I chat with David Nicholson, Mercy Corps' Chief Climate Officer, about their impactful work at the intersection of climate resilience, energy access, and humanitarian action. Mercy Corps operates across 42 countries, tackling critical issues around food and water security, governance, and economic opportunity—all with a climate focus.
David explains why energy access, often overlooked in climate adaptation, is vital for vulnerable communities. We dive into the power of renewable microgrids and solar-powered solutions that enable cold storage and water pumping, helping farmers preserve produce and communities manage water resources in increasingly extreme climates. David shares insights into projects like a solar mini-grid in an Ethiopian displacement camp, which is providing electricity and boosting economic resilience for 18,000 people.
We also discuss the challenges of driving energy solutions in fragile regions, from funding obstacles to the perceived risks that discourage private investment. David advocates for a ‘just energy transition’ to address these barriers, one that not only prioritises decarbonisation but includes the world’s most climate-impacted communities.
If you're keen to learn about the critical role of energy access in climate adaptation, the emerging clean energy solutions for vulnerable areas, and how organisations like Mercy Corps are shaping a more resilient future, tune in to this episode. You won’t want to miss this insight into climate justice at the frontline.Support the show
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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In this episode of *Climate Confident*, I’m joined by Viktor Meier, CEO and co-founder of Glice, a company that's transforming ice sports by creating eco-friendly, zero-energy synthetic ice rinks. We dive into the story behind Glice, exploring how Viktor's early commitment to environmental issues led him on a journey to revolutionise ice skating without the environmental cost of traditional ice rinks.
Viktor shares how Glice was born out of a desire to maintain the joy and accessibility of ice sports while tackling some of the massive energy and water demands typically associated with them. Their solution? High-tech synthetic panels that don’t require refrigeration, eliminating the energy and water waste typical of regular ice. Remarkably, each Glice rink can cut energy use comparable to the needs of thousands of homes, making it a powerful tool for sustainability, and emissions reduction. Viktor explains that the product’s durability and ability to be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life add further to its eco-credentials.
We also discuss the broader implications for ice sports as global warming makes natural ice scarcer, even in traditionally cold regions. From the NHL to local communities and even Hollywood film sets, Glice has found a unique niche in over 100 countries, showing how sustainable innovations can be globally adaptable.
So, if you’re interested in how sustainable innovation can preserve the essence of an activity while slashing its carbon footprint, or simply curious about how synthetic ice works, tune in for an insightful conversation with Viktor.
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I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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Here’s a deep dive into sustainable IT with Ralph Loura, co-founder and Chairman of SustainableIT.org. In this episode, Ralph shares his journey from CIO to sustainability advocate and outlines why the tech industry must take accountability for its environmental impact. We cover the unique role of technology leaders in driving sustainability, tackling issues like e-waste, energy overuse, and the soaring environmental cost of AI.
Ralph introduces SustainableIT.org’s mission, which goes beyond carbon reduction. The organisation focuses on creating frameworks and standards for sustainable IT practices, encouraging tech leaders to adopt efficient, ethical, and green strategies in their operations. We also discuss their work on “sustainable AI,” a concept that pushes for energy-conscious AI applications by minimising resource consumption and carbon output.
A key highlight of our chat was Ralph’s practical advice for IT leaders navigating sustainability amidst growing regulations. He emphasises balancing AI’s promises with its power demands and urges CIOs to consider long-term impacts on communities and the planet. Plus, Ralph discusses the importance of metrics, recommending KPIs that go beyond compliance to reflect real, measurable impact.
If you’re interested in practical steps to make tech greener and more responsible, you’ll find this episode insightful. You can check out SustainableIT.org and download their white paper on sustainable AI for more resources.
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
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In this week's episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Lew Blaustein, founder and CEO of EcoAthletes, an organisation dedicated to inspiring athletes to lead the charge on climate action. We delve into Lew’s fascinating career pivot, from sports marketing to environmental advocacy, sparked by the events of 9/11 and a pivotal Tom Friedman article on energy dependence and global conflict.
Lew shares the unique influence athletes hold in shaping public opinion and how EcoAthletes works to empower them, providing the tools and resources needed to overcome challenges like misinformation, fear of backlash, and the "too sciency" perception around climate change. We discuss how athletes have led on social issues in the past – from civil rights to gender equality – and how they can bring that same drive to the climate crisis.
A standout topic is the EcoAthletes Collegiate Cup, where student athletes compete to reduce methane emissions by converting exercise into environmental currency, proving that sports and sustainability can go hand in hand. Lew also highlights Vote Climate, a campaign encouraging U.S. voters to make climate a priority in elections.
Whether you’re a climate advocate or just curious about the intersection of sports and sustainability, this episode offers a practical look at how athletes can become powerful agents of change. Listen in to explore how passion, competition, and leadership on the field can translate into meaningful climate action.
Tune in and join the conversation!
BTW - I have to apologise for the quality of my audio in this episode. We had builders in, and so I wasn't in my normally audio treated recording space. I did my best to fix the audio, but you can still realise it isn't up to its normal quality. Sorry.Support the show
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper -
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In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Professor Valerie Thomas from Georgia Tech to dig deep into some of the pressing topics in the climate space today – from carbon capture and biofuels to the growing potential of using timber in construction.
We kicked off with carbon capture, a technology often seen as a critical tool in reducing atmospheric CO2. Valerie broke it down for us, explaining the science behind capturing CO2 from the air and the enormous challenges of scaling this up to meet global needs. Even with the latest projects in places like Iceland, we’re still orders of magnitude away from removing the billions of tonnes of CO2 required. The tech works, but it’s costly and energy-intensive.
From there, we ventured into biofuels. Valerie outlined some fascinating projects using algae and bio-crude, and the potential of integrating these processes with existing infrastructure. The goal? To eventually make biofuels more affordable and sustainable for industries like aviation. However, much like carbon capture, costs remain a significant barrier.
Finally, we explored the concept of using timber in construction as a natural carbon capture solution. Using mass timber to replace steel and concrete not only reduces emissions but locks away carbon in buildings for decades or even centuries. It's a promising avenue, but again, scaling this up will take time.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of energy and how we might tackle some of the biggest climate challenges we face.
Listen now to get a glimpse into the future of climate solutions!
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Podcast supporters
Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper -
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had a great chat with Dr Denis Phares, founder and CEO of Dragonfly Energy. Denis shared the fascinating journey of how Dragonfly Energy came to be, stemming from his background in academia, and a desire to make a tangible impact on climate change through entrepreneurship.
We delved into their innovative dry electrode manufacturing process for lithium-ion batteries. This method eliminates the need for toxic solvents, significantly reducing costs and environmental impact. Denis explained how this technology is versatile across various battery chemistries and has the potential to revolutionise the industry by making batteries more efficient and sustainable.
We also discussed the importance of domestic lithium resources in Nevada and how Dragonfly Energy is poised to capitalise on this to build a robust, local supply chain. Denis shed light on the future of lithium recycling and its role in creating a sustainable and circular economy for battery materials.
Our conversation touched on practical applications of their technology, from providing energy solutions for RVs and heavy-duty trucks to enhancing grid stability through distributed energy storage. Denis emphasised the pivotal role batteries play in facilitating a transition to renewable energy without compromising our way of life.
A highlight was when I asked Denis which celebrity he'd choose as a spokesperson for Dragonfly Energy, and he picked all four Beatles! We also pondered over futuristic concepts like flying cars and how close we are to such advancements.
This episode offers deep insights into innovations in battery technology and their significance in combating climate change. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in sustainable energy and the future of our power grids.
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Podcast supporters
Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper -
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Welcome to a special edition of the Climate Confident Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Jim Sullivan, Global Head of Product Management for Sustainability at SAP. With three decades of experience in sustainability and climate change—including roles at the EPA and in startups—Jim offers deep insights into the evolving corporate approach to climate action.
We delve into the key takeaways from this year's Climate Week in New York. Jim highlights how the event has grown beyond climate discussions to encompass material transitions like the circular economy and hard-to-abate sectors such as aluminium and steel. He shares encouraging progress, noting that members of the CEO Climate Action Alliance have achieved a 10% absolute reduction in emissions over three years, even as their businesses have grown.
A central theme of our conversation is the pivotal role of data and technology in accelerating sustainability initiatives. Jim explains that much of the necessary data for sustainability reporting already exists within companies but isn't effectively utilised. We explore how AI can act as a valuable colleague, handling tedious tasks like emissions factor mapping and freeing up human resources for strategic decision-making.
We also discuss the importance of standardising data exchange to ensure consistent and comparable sustainability reporting. Jim emphasises that agreeing on standards is crucial for making meaningful progress and avoiding the pitfalls of fragmented efforts.
Finally, we touch on the evolving role of the Chief Sustainability Officer and how sustainability is increasingly integrated into financial and operational planning. Jim offers advice to business leaders hesitant about committing to sustainability initiatives, stressing that while the best time to invest was a decade ago, the second-best time is now.
I hope you'll find this episode insightful as we explore how technology, data, and collaborative efforts can drive meaningful progress in the fight against climate change.
Check out SAP's Sustainability page for more.Support the show
Podcast supporters
Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper -
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Hi everyone, Tom Raftery here, and welcome to episode 188 of the Climate Confident podcast. In this episode, I had a fascinating conversation with Michael Barnard, a climate futurist who's spent the last 15 years delving deep into the challenges and solutions around climate change.
Michael and I discussed the often controversial topic of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). We explored why mechanical carbon capture technologies, particularly those promoted by the fossil fuel industry, may not be the panacea they're often touted to be. Michael shed light on the stark differences in climate policies between countries with and without fossil fuel industries, highlighting how nations without such industries focus more on nature-based solutions like reforestation and wetland restoration.
We delved into the limitations of direct air capture technologies, examining why they struggle to scale effectively and why they may not be the most efficient use of resources. Michael also discussed the challenges associated with oceanic carbon capture methods and how they can inadvertently harm marine ecosystems.
One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the importance of prioritising emission reductions at the source. Michael emphasised the potential of sustainable construction practices, such as using cross-laminated timber, to both sequester carbon and reduce reliance on high-emission materials like cement.
We also touched on the risks associated with transporting captured CO2, citing real-world examples that underscore the safety concerns.
This episode is a deep dive into the complexities of CCUS and offers valuable insights into why focusing on emission reduction and investing in renewable energy solutions might be more effective paths forward.
I hope you find this discussion as enlightening as I did. Don't forget to click follow on this podcast in your app of choice to ensure you don't miss any future episodes. Thanks for tuning in!
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Podcast supporters
Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters:And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.
Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.
Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper - Visa fler
