Cleaning Up: Leadership in an Age of Climate Change

In this insightful discussion, Professor Tristan Smith from UCL Energy Institute, an expert in shipping decarbonisation, dives into the recent turmoil at the International Maritime Organisation. Shipping, which accounts for around 3% of global emissions, faced a significant setback as the US delayed a crucial vote on carbon intensity regulations. Tristan explains the implications of this intervention, the complexities of maritime policy, and the risks of relying on fossil fuels. He also evaluates emerging alternatives like nuclear and e-fuels amidst the challenges they present for the industry.

Michael Liebreich, energy analyst and founder of clean energy commentary, shares his insights on pragmatic strategies for transitioning away from fossil fuels. He challenges the perception that clean energy efforts have failed, advocating for a realistic and gradual approach. Liebreich emphasizes the importance of electrification and affordable energy, critiques climate activists for focusing on ideology over practical concerns, and discusses the need for reform in international climate diplomacy. His comprehensive vision blends economic realities with climate action.

John Pettigrew, the outgoing CEO of National Grid, reflects on his 35-year career, discussing the ambitious £60 billion investment plan aimed at rewiring Britain's energy system. He delves into the challenges posed by the surge in demand from AI data centres and the balance of decarbonisation, reliability, and affordability. Pettigrew shares insights on the race to build offshore wind transmission and lessons learned from significant outages in Spain and at Heathrow. He emphasizes the exciting transformation within the energy sector for new graduates.

Dr. Arunabha Ghosh, CEO of the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, dives into India’s ambitious clean energy transition. He discusses how India aims for universal electricity access while reducing fossil fuel dependence, spotlighting innovative market designs that have drastically cut solar costs. Ghosh emphasizes the need for collaboration with countries like China and Brazil and the importance of local climate risk assessments. He also shares insights on electrification strategies for transport and the push for green supply chains, highlighting India’s critical role in global climate diplomacy.

Dr. Katharina Fabricius, a renowned coral reef ecologist with three decades of research, discusses the critical state of the Great Barrier Reef. She outlines the 'seven sins of climate change' threatening coral survival, including heatwaves and acidification. Despite witnessing multiple bleaching events, Katharina emphasizes coral resilience and the importance of reef ecosystems for human wellbeing. She also explores the impact of government action on reef conservation and shares what gives her hope for the future of our oceans.

The podcast tackles the shifting climate action landscape post-Trump's election. It proposes a Pragmatic Climate Reset, urging a focus on practical climate goals that are politically viable. There's a push for rapid decarbonization, emphasizing electrification and flexible gas. A critical look at hydrogen economics suggests prioritizing blue hydrogen. The discussion calls for reforming climate diplomacy, making COP meetings more effective, and recalibrating finance strategies while ensuring value for climate investments.

Dr. Hannah Ritchie, Deputy Editor at Our World in Data and author of Clearing the Air, joins to debunk 50 common climate myths. She addresses concerns about electric vehicles and their real emissions impact, explaining how local air quality benefits outweigh potential downsides. Hannah discusses the challenges of renewable energy, from variability issues to grid bottlenecks, and clarifies misunderstandings around nuclear power and supply chains. This insightful conversation encourages a more hopeful perspective on climate solutions.

In this engaging conversation, Malcolm Turnbull, the former Prime Minister of Australia and climate advocate, discusses the transformative impact of cheap solar energy on political narratives. He explores the real challenges of hydrogen as a clean energy source and debates the potential of pumped hydro for long-term energy storage. The discussion touches on the complexities of global climate politics, especially with U.S. leadership shifts, while addressing the critical notion that 'hope is not a strategy' in achieving energy security.

Bonny Simi, President of Operations at Joby Aviation, is a trailblazer in electric aviation and a three-time Olympian in luge. She shares her inspiring journey from a childhood love for airplanes to leading innovations in eVTOL technology. Bonny discusses her time at JetBlue, where she founded Technology Ventures, and insights into integrating sustainable advancements in aviation. She also reflects on the resilience gained from her Olympic journey and the importance of embracing personal strengths for career growth.

Professional rock climber Alex Honnold, renowned for his breathtaking free solo climbs, discusses the profound connection between his climbing and environmental activism. He shares insights on the impact of the documentary 'Free Solo' on his public image and the emotional challenges of climate change. Honnold highlights his foundation's solar projects that empower disadvantaged communities, stresses the importance of reliable energy for healthcare, and reflects on the intricate balance of risk in climbing and fostering responsibility for future generations.