Former presidential candidate Tom Steyer talks about the progress in the climate fight, beating Big Oil, and the possibility of the oil industry transforming. He discusses why doomerism doesn't work, the argument for climate being won, and his journey before dedicating his career to climate.
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Quick takeaways
Doomerism is ineffective in addressing climate change, showcasing the importance of optimism and proactive solutions.
Renewable energy sources are becoming more cost-effective than traditional fossil fuels, driving the transition towards cleaner energy.
Innovation in technology sectors like digital manufacturing and AI is vital to reduce emissions and combat climate change.
Deep dives
Tom Steyer's Call to Action for Climate Change
Tom Steyer, a billionaire investor and former presidential candidate, emphasizes the urgency and importance of addressing climate change in his book 'Cheaper, Faster, Better'. He highlights the progress made in technologies like solar and electric vehicles, showcasing the opportunities for both environmental impact and financial gain. Steyer calls for a shift towards market-driven solutions, highlighting the need for cheaper, faster, and better alternatives to drive the clean energy transition.
The Shift Towards Renewable Energy
Steyer discusses the transformation in the energy landscape, citing the significant growth of renewable energy sources. He emphasizes the shift towards renewables like wind and solar, which have become more cost-effective than traditional fossil fuels. By illustrating the rapid deployment of renewable energy globally, Steyer underscores the importance of market competitiveness in driving the transition towards cleaner energy.
Revolutionizing Industries Through Climate Innovation
Steyer advocates for innovation across various sectors to combat climate change. He highlights the need for technology-driven solutions, such as digital manufacturing and AI in sectors like cement production to reduce emissions. By investing in climate tech startups and real estate projects aimed at achieving net-zero emissions, Steyer aims to showcase the financial viability and environmental benefits of such initiatives.
Political Advocacy for Climate Action
Steyer reflects on his presidential campaign as a platform to raise awareness about critical issues like climate change and racial equity. He underscores the importance of engaging with Americans directly to understand and address their concerns. By pushing for climate-focused policies and emphasizing the economic benefits of clean energy technologies, Steyer aims to drive meaningful change and political action.
Empowering Individuals and Driving Positive Change
Steyer's book serves as a call to action for individuals to advocate for sustainable practices and support climate initiatives. He encourages readers to embrace the concept of 'cheaper, faster, better' solutions in driving environmental progress. By instilling a sense of agency and hope in readers, Steyer envisions a collaborative effort towards a sustainable future with tangible benefits for both individuals and the planet.
The climate fight is going far better than you realise. So says this week’s guest, Tom Steyer, former presidential candidate and founder of Galvanize Climate Solutions. He comes on to talk with Sunday Times correspondent Danny Fortson about why doomerism doesn’t work (4:30), beating Big Oil (8:45), when theory meets reality (15:10), whether the climate argument has been won (21:30), his life before dedicating his career to climate (30:20), dabbling in politics (36:30), running a climate investment firm (41:00), running for president (44:00), and the possibility that the oil industry will transform (51:10).