Vijay Vaitheeswaran

Join Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's expert on Russia, as he reveals the harrowing truth about life inside Russia's brutal prison system, where political prisoners face unimaginable conditions. Vijay Vaitheeswaran discusses the daunting challenge of transitioning from oil dependency, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions amidst rising global temperatures. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe honors Amnon Weinstein, a luthier on a mission to restore Holocaust violins, bringing their haunting histories back to life through music.

In the spotlight are Vijay Vaitheeswaran, Global Energy and Climate Innovation Editor at The Economist; Zach Friedman, Senior Director of Federal Policy at Ceres; and Jon Creyts, CEO of RMI. They dive into the vital role of energy efficiency in the energy transition. The trio discusses how changes in U.S. energy policy, particularly under a second Trump administration, could shape sustainability efforts. They also consider innovative solutions like carbon tariffs, the significance of permitting reforms, and the collaboration needed to foster clean energy advancements.

Vijay Vaiteswaran, The Economist's global energy editor, teams up with Anjini Trivedi, a global business writer, to discuss crucial innovations in battery technology that promise to green our electricity grids. They dive into how advanced battery systems are key to harnessing renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The conversation also touches on the booming tourism sector in Asia, highlighting changing traveler preferences. Plus, they explore how to have meaningful discussions with kids about the implications of AI in their lives.

Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, highlighting its mix of tradition and modern sentiment. She discusses the public’s varied reactions, especially among younger generations, to royal pomp. Meanwhile, Vijay Vaitheeswaran, the Energy, Global and Climate Innovation Editor, dives into America’s rise as a clean energy superpower, fueled by recent legislation and investments, showcasing the potential for sustainable transformation in the energy sector.

Vijay Vaiteswaran, Global energy and climate innovation editor at The Economist, and Anjini Trivedi, Global business writer at The Economist, delve into innovative battery technologies that are crucial for harnessing renewable energy. They discuss the urgent need for efficient energy storage solutions to manage the unpredictable nature of wind and solar power. Additionally, Anjini shares insights into the booming tourism trends across Asia, highlighting the shift in travelers' preferences post-COVID and the rising investments in infrastructure to accommodate this surge.

James Astor, Asia editor for The Economist, analyzes Sheikh Hasina’s two-decade rule in Bangladesh, discussing impressive growth marred by corruption and a potential talent drain. He critiques her firm grip on power, suggesting it may stifle further progress. Vijay Vaitheeswaran, Global Energy and Climate Innovation Editor, dives into groundbreaking direct air capture technology, highlighting a project aimed at capturing 500,000 tons of CO2 annually and the challenges ahead. They also touch on the booming popularity of Spanish-language music as a cultural response to these themes.

In this insightful discussion, Vijay Vaitheeswaran, Global energy and climate innovation editor, dives into Bangladesh's political landscape under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He highlights the tension between her impressive development initiatives and the challenges of corruption. Lane Green, author of The Economist's language column, shifts gears to explore the booming Spanish-language music scene, dissecting its cultural impact and the social media dynamics fueling its rise. Together, they uncover the intricate connections between politics, climate innovation, and music trends.

Guest Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Russia and Eastern Europe editor, uncovers the brutal realities inside Russian prisons, sharing harrowing tales of political prisoners like Alexei Navalny. Vijay Vaitheeswaran, Global Energy and Climate Innovation Editor, addresses the urgent need for policies to combat oil dependency amid rising temperatures. Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, honors Amnon Weinstein and his 'Violins of Hope,' instruments restored from the Holocaust, exploring how music can keep the memories of the past alive.

Chris Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, analyzes Greece's recent elections, where Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis performed surprisingly well despite lacking a majority. He discusses the implications for Greece's rebound and governance challenges. Vijay Vaitheeswaran, global energy and climate innovation editor, explores the surge in U.S. clean energy lobbying motivated by new investments. The conversation also touches on innovative defense strategies, highlighting how simple nets are being creatively used to protect against drones in modern warfare.

Vijay Vaitheeswaran, Global energy and climate innovation editor at The Economist, discusses the challenges and progress in international climate summits, the role of the private sector in finance for clean energy, the economics of energy sources, the politics and pragmatism surrounding the summit, and the importance of hope, innovation, and accountability in fighting climate change.