EUVC VC | E469 | Christian Hernandez on the Real ROI of Adaptation (ImpactVC spotlight series)
May 15, 2025
Christian Hernandez, co-founder and partner at 2150, dives into the urgent need for climate adaptation as a major investment frontier. He critiques the common misconception that adaptation is secondary, emphasizing its critical role alongside mitigation. The conversation explores innovative technologies tackling real emissions, like concrete and air conditioning, and discusses how funders can bridge the gap between nascent tech and large-scale solutions. Hernandez also provides insights into the balancing act of consumption and sustainability necessary for meaningful climate action.
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Mitigation vs Adaptation Explained
- Climate mitigation focuses on reducing CO2 emissions to meet targets like zero by 2050.
- Adaptation accepts those targets might be missed and prepares for survival amid worsening climate impacts.
Adaptation Funding Gap
- Only 6% of climate venture capital currently supports adaptation despite massive funding needs.
- Annual adaptation costs are estimated at $3.8 trillion, far exceeding current venture funding levels.
Innovating Cooling Solutions
- 2150 invested in Blue Frontier, a company innovating energy-efficient cooling technology.
- Their tech is 90% more efficient and aims to enable affordable cooling, critical for heat-impacted megacities.