The Decarbonization Delusion with Andrew Moore

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Moore, a biochemist and author of 'The Decarbonization Delusion.' For Moore, the decarbonisation agenda is misguided. But he is emphatic about the need to stop using fossil fuels. Moore is concerned about the limitations of battery technology in achieving sustainability, arguing instead that we need to consider e-fuels and other technologies that can be used in existing internal-combustion engines. 

Takeaways 

• The decarbonisation agenda should focus on achieving net zero emissions but must consider the sustainability and environmental impact of alternative technologies. 
• Battery technology has limitations and requires careful consideration of its environmental impact and recycling challenges. 
• The sustainability footprint of battery electric vehicles needs to be evaluated in comparison to internal combustion engine vehicles. 
• China is not solely focused on electric vehicles and is investing in technology diversity, including methanol burning internal combustion engine vehicles.
• The European Union's policy on zero and low emission vehicles lacks technological diversity and may overlook the potential of e-fuels. 
• E-fuels, such as methanol, can be a viable alternative to electric vehicles, especially for long-distance trucking and buses.

Buy Andrew's book:

https://global.oup.com/academic/product/the-decarbonization-delusion-9780197664834?cc=gb&lang=en&

Adam Smith's Panmure House:

https://panmurehouse.org/