Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations

In this insightful episode of Wicked Problems, Richard Delevan interviews David Shukman, a seasoned journalist with a 38-year career at the BBC. They talk climate reporting, the challenges faced by the media in covering climate, and the changes in public perception and policy over. David shares personal anecdotes from his career, reflects on climate techn, and his transition to new roles in climate communication.Key Topics DiscussedCareer Reflections:David’s early journalism days at Coventry Evening Telegraph.Transition from typewriters and smoking in newsrooms to modern-day digital media.The evolution of climate reporting and the media’s struggle with recognizing trends.Changes in Climate Reporting:The shift from giving equal weight to climate change deniers to emphasizing peer-reviewed science.The impact of the BBC’s move towards "due impartiality."Challenges in maintaining impartiality while conveying the scientific consensus on climate issues.Personal Experiences and Stories:David’s transition from BBC to new endeavors.His work with business leaders and moderating events like Innovation Zero.Reflections on covering climate stories globally, including frontline reporting from Bangladesh.Climate Technology and Solutions:Advances in renewable energy: solar power, wind turbines, and electric vehicles.The importance of government policies and incentives in driving technological change.Future of Climate Communication:David’s new book project focusing on climate adaptation and the human impact of climate change.The need to bring new voices, like firefighters and first responders, into the climate conversation.Notable Quotes:"The implausible becomes not only plausible but actually kind of normal in society.""We had some ludicrous and damaging situations where our coverage didn't reflect where the evidence lay."Catalysts:Adaptation in BangladeshIngenious local solutions like replacing chickens with ducks in flood-prone areas.Energy Efficiency InsightsAmory Lovins' perspective on the impact of efficient design in industrial processes.Historical InspirationDavid’s great-great-grandfather's embrace of technological transitions, from sail to steam, paralleling today’s shift to renewable energy.Call to Action: If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it and leave us a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Consider becoming a paid subscriber at wickedproblems.earth for ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and to support climate tech storytelling.Production Credits: Written and edited by Richard Delevan. Production assistance by Thedore Delevan. Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations is a production of Wicked Problems Limited. BBC footage from a documentary produced in Nov 2021 by Kate Stephens. Innovation Zero footage via @solutionshouseConnect with Us:Website: wickedproblems.earthTwitter: @rdelevanDavid Shukman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A little over a week ago, Vermont enacted the first law requiring carbon polluters to pay to clean up the damage caused by climate change, putting the money into a fund for adaptation and resilience measures. We bring back Dana Drugmand of One Earth Now and Loes van Dijk of Climate Court to talk about the implications the law might have globally, its prospects for surviving the attacks on the attribution science underlying it - which we detailed last week, and other climate litigation around the world - including a French prosecutor being asked to charge the board and management of Total with criminal charges including manslaughter.Segment 1: Interview with Dana Drugmand03:47 Dana Drugmand discusses Vermont's new law 04:22 how the law passed 07:48 first of its kind globally and its potential impact 12:29 expected legal challenges.Segment 2: Broader Implications and Reactions19:34  could such a law have passed without recent severe flooding in Vermont?20:33 broader trend of climate accountability laws Segment 3: Interview with Loes van Dijk23:48 Introduction to Loes van Dijk and her work with Climate Court24:09  importance of climate litigation for addressing climate change24:45 Urgenda case in the Netherlands25:40 the Peruvian farmer vs. RWE.Segment 4: Legal Strategies and Future Outlook26:58 power of tort law in climate litigation, 30:38 the Republican attorneys generals' attempt to block state-level climate litigation in the U.S. Supreme Court.32:06 role of attribution science in proving climate change causality 33:50 Loes's reaction to Vermont's law, focusing on the need for a global legal mechanism to address climate change.Segment 5: Broader Legal and Political Context44:29 Exploration of the potential for criminal charges against corporate executives for climate-related damages, focusing on a case against Total in France.* Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.* Consider becoming a paid subscriber at wickedproblems.earth Credits:* Host: Richard Delevan* Guests: Dana Drugmand, Loes van Dijk* Production Assistance: Theodore Delevan* Music: Suncharmer and check out our playlist for other tunes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this World Oceans Day special edition of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan dives deep into the pervasive issue of ocean plastic pollution. Joined by Will Pearson, founder of Ocean Bottle, they discuss the alarming increase in plastic production, the environmental and health impacts of microplastics, and the innovative solutions that Ocean Bottle is pioneering to tackle this global crisis.Key Topics Covered:* Interview with Will Pearson:* Background on Will Pearson and the founding of Ocean Bottle in 2018.* Discussion on the impact of microplastics on ocean ecosystems, particularly the reproduction of plankton.* Will Pearson's personal experiences that led him to tackle ocean plastic, including his time spent at sea and witnessing plastic pollution firsthand.Ocean Bottle's Mission and Achievements:* Ocean Bottle's innovative model: funding the collection of 1000 plastic bottles for each product sold.* Achievements: Reaching the milestone of collecting one billion plastic bottles.* Expansion of collection projects in coastal communities worldwide.Challenges and Future Goals:* Discussion on the challenges of creating a profitable business model that also delivers positive environmental impact.* The company's growth from a Kickstarter campaign to raising $9 million in funding.* Future goals: Expanding the product range and digital technology to further the mission of reducing ocean plastic.The Plastics Treaty and Recycling Issues:* Insight into the ongoing negotiations for a global plastics treaty.* The complexities and inefficiencies of current recycling systems.* Potential policy changes, such as extended producer responsibility, to incentivize better plastic management.Will Pearson's Catalysts:* Influences that shaped Will’s approach to tackling ocean plastic, including the book "Net Positive" by Paul Polman.* The importance of understanding the problem and the power of innovation in creating solutions.Final Thoughts:* Optimistic outlook on the potential to address ocean plastic pollution through collective effort and innovation.* Encouragement for listeners to engage with and support initiatives that aim to protect the environment.Additional Resources:* Ocean Bottle: WebsiteCredits:* Hosted by Richard Delevan* Guest: Will Pearson* Production Assistance and Additional VO: Theo Delevan* Music by Suncharmer and in our Playlist:Support the Show: please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And wickedproblems.earth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this milestone 50th episode, Richard Delevan interviews Akshat Rathi about his book "Climate Capitalism," discussing the intersections of technology, policy, and systemic change needed to combat climate change. Akshat shares personal stories, insights from his research, and his views on the future of capitalism in addressing environmental issues. This episode combines deep analysis with light-hearted moments, offering listeners both education and entertainment.Key Topics:Theories of change and the necessity of systemic reformEconomic rationale behind addressing climate changeRole of businesses and governments in fostering sustainable practicesPersonal anecdotes from Akshat's life and careerChallenges and opportunities in climate actionInsights on technological innovations and their impact on the environmentHighlights:[02:21] Theories of Change and Climate Capitalism[07:29] Economic Rationale and Systemic Levers[13:35] Personal Anecdotes and Inspirations[18:47] The Role of Businesses and Governments[23:45] Challenges and Opportunities in Climate Action[29:22] Insights on Technological Innovations[34:17] Audience Q&A and Funniest Moments[40:00] Final Thoughts and What's Next for AkshatAkshat's Catalysts:The Great Derangement by Amitav GhoshPurchase on AmazonThe Best of Times, The Worst of Times by Paul BehrensPurchase on AmazonThe Current War (Movie)Watch on Amazon Prime VideoAdditional Resources:Buy Akshat Rathi's book "Climate Capitalism"Listen to ZeroFollow Us:Twitter and LinkedInWickedProblems.earth Music: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokut?si=51e8e2a837da4591 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Solar analyst Jenny Chase from Bloomberg NEF discusses solar finance and potential in Africa. Topics include geese, sci-fi influences on climate change views, challenges in renewable energy, and impacts of Russian invasion on energy prices.

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, Richard Delevan interviews Wil Burns, Co-Director of the Institute for Responsible Carbon Removal at American University. They delve into the critical role of carbon removal technologies, exploring their evolution from fringe concepts to mainstream climate strategy. The discussion covers the science, ethics, and policies essential for implementing these technologies responsibly.Timestamps:02:46 - Wil Burns discusses his journey into carbon removal research and the importance of addressing carbon removal alongside decarbonization.05:19 - Urgency and Scale of Carbon RemovalThe necessity of large-scale carbon removal to meet Paris Agreement goals and the increasing urgency as emissions continue to rise.07:08 - Institute for Responsible Carbon RemovalWil explains the mission of the institute and the significance of the term "responsible" in carbon removal practices.10:05 - Criteria for Responsible Carbon RemovalThe importance of avoiding mitigation deterrence, ensuring real commitments, and focusing on equity and justice.13:56 - Challenges in Carbon Removal ImplementationDiscussing storage issues, pipeline expansions, and resistance from various communities.16:27 - Ocean-Based Carbon Removal ApproachesThe potential and challenges of ocean alkalinity enhancement and other ocean-based carbon removal methods.22:50 - Voluntary Carbon Markets and ComplianceThe future of voluntary carbon markets, the need for compliance markets, and the challenges in establishing robust methodologies under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.29:31 - Geoengineering and Solar Radiation ModificationThe potential future conversations around geoengineering and solar radiation modification as climate impacts worsen.Resources and Links:Institute for Responsible Carbon RemovalPlan Sea PodcastCarbon 180Carbon PlanSubscribe & Support:Enjoyed the episode? Please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.For ad-free episodes and exclusive content, consider becoming a subscriber at Wicked Problems - 30% off annual membership this week.Stay Connected:Follow us on Twitter and LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter at Wicked Problems.Credits:Written and edited by Richard DelevanProduction assistance by Theo DelevanMusic by First Aid Kit - "Silver Lining" (check our playlist) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wicked Problems, host Richard Delevan interviews Ernest Scheider, author of 'The War Below' and senior correspondent at Reuters. They explore the challenges and dilemmas related to obtaining critical minerals necessary for the energy transition. Topics include the ethical trade-offs between mining and biodiversity, the role of critical minerals in electronics and electric vehicles, and the geopolitical implications of mineral sourcing. They also examine the approaches of the U.S. and China towards critical mineral supply chains, and discuss the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. election on the industry. Will Trump 2.0 open up the floodgates of mining projects in unexpected places?For full show notes and links to Ernest Scheyder’s Catalysts, go to wickedproblems.earth.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, we return to one of our favourite topics: carbon dioxide removals (CDR) and its potential role in combating climate change. Our host, Richard Delevan, interviews two distinguished guests: Ben Cooke, Earth Editor at The Times, and Robert Höglund, manager of the MilkyWire Climate Transformation Fund, founder of CDR.fyi and writer of Marginal Carbon. T1. Ben Cooke, Earth Editor at The Times, discusses his recent trip to Iceland to visit Climeworks' Mammoth facility, the world's largest direct air capture plant.Key Discussion Points:- Overview of Climeworks' Mammoth Facility:- Ben describes the setting of the Mammoth facility, its reliance on geothermal energy to power its Direct Air Capture technology, and the role of an Icelandic startup - Carbfix - in turning the captured CO2 into rock.- Technological Details:- Explanation of how the facility captures carbon dioxide using fans and sticky filters, and then locks it away underground through a process developed by Carbfix.- Future Goals and Challenges:- Discussion on Climeworks' ambitious targets of capturing a million tonnes of CO₂ annually by 2030 and a billion by 2050, and the challenges they face in scaling up.- Economic Viability:- Insights into the cost dynamics of carbon capture technology and the potential for future cost reductions.2. Robert Höglund, manager of the MilkyWire Climate Transformation Fund, shares his expertise on carbon removal technologies and the voluntary carbon market.Key Discussion Points:- Current State of Carbon Removal:- Overview of the development and cost trajectories of direct air capture (DAC) technologies.- Market Dynamics:- Insights into the voluntary carbon market, key players like Microsoft, and the potential for scaling up carbon removal efforts.- Policy and Regulation:- The importance of government intervention and the potential impact of policies like the carbon take back obligation.- Ethical and Practical Considerations:- Addressing the ethical implications of carbon removal and the need for a balanced approach that includes significant emission reductions.Links and Resources:- Follow Ben Cooke on Twitter, LinkedIn- Subscribe to ’s Substack at- Learn more about Climeworks and their carbon capture projects- Follow us on LinkedIn, BlueSky, Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan sits down with Layla Sawyer, Secretary General of CurrENT Europe, and Dr. Ryan Williams, Chief Economist at ENODA, to delve into the pressing issues and innovative solutions surrounding our electricity grids. From the challenges of deploying existing technologies to the future potential of superconductors and advanced grid technologies, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how we can build a resilient, efficient, and sustainable grid for 2050 and beyond.Wicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Key Topics:1. Current Challenges in Grid Technology:- The importance of grid innovation for a decarbonised future.- The role of policy in encouraging technological deployment.- Layla discusses the barriers to meaningful mass deployment of existing technologies.2. Technological Innovations and Solutions:- Dynamic line rating and advanced power flow control.- The potential of superconductors and advanced conductors.- Ryan explains how ENODA’s technology replaces outdated transformers with a modern solution to enhance grid efficiency.3. Policy and Public Perception:- The need for anticipatory planning and overcoming public opposition.- Layla and Ryan discuss the necessity of policy adjustments and public awareness for future grid development.4. Future Outlook and Upcoming Projects:- CurrENT Europe’s upcoming study on innovative grid technologies.- ENODA’s expansion plans and their role in balancing renewable energy sources.- Layla and Ryan’s perspectives on what’s needed for future grid success.5. Personal Insights and Motivations:- Layla’s journey from social sciences to sustainable business and grid technology.- Ryan’s career evolution from computer programming to financial economics and energy regulation.Catalysts:- Layla shares how a project on peer-to-peer energy trading sparked her interest in grid technology.- Ryan talks about the excitement and challenges of working in a dynamic startup environment.Resources and Links:- CurrENT Europe- ENODA- “A Grid to Decarbonize Europe”-2021 CurrENT study on GETs- RMI: Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs) Can Increase the Speed and Scale of New EntryWicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.- Follow us on LinkedIn, BlueSky, ThreadsMusic from the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4bqRlNSQQE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prashant Rao from Semafor and Freya Pratty from the FT-backed Sifted join Richard Delevan and discuss the latest in climate tech, investment challenges, and the evolving energy landscape. We also share our interview with Laura Fleming, UK country director at Hitachi Energy.Key Topics Discussed:1. The Valley of Death- Prashant Rao discusses the significant funding gap in climate tech. He highlights that while a $7 billion fund by KKR is substantial, it is a drop in the ocean compared to the $4 trillion needed annually.- Insights about the "valley of death" for climate tech startups. 2. Innovative Funding Models- Richard and Prashant explore innovative funding models that could mitigate the valley of death problem. They discuss the need for different types of CFOs who are familiar with high capex industries.3. European Climate Tech Expansion to the Gulf- Freya Pratty recounts her recent trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, observing a significant interest from European climate tech companies in the Gulf region. Despite the enthusiasm from European founders, she notes a potential mismatch with local priorities, which are more focused on Asia and Africa.- The discussion also touches on the ethical and human rights concerns surrounding mega-projects like Saudi Arabia's NEOM4. Political Uncertainty and Its Impact on Climate Tech- The panel delves into the political uncertainties in the US and Europe and their implications for climate tech investments. Richard raises concerns about the potential impact of a Trump presidency on Inflation Reduction Act and investor confidence.- Freya mentions that many founders seek stability and long-term policy certainty.5. Tesla's Hardcore Pivot- The conversation shifts to Tesla's recent pivot away from a $25,000 model to focus on AI-driven Robo-taxis. Richard and Prashant debate the implications of this move for Tesla's market position and the broader EV industry.- Prashant highlights the intense competition from Chinese EV manufacturers like BYD, which poses a significant challenge to Tesla's dominance.Laura Fleming from Hitachi Energy, at InnovationZero- Laura Fleming, Managing Director of UK and Ireland for Hitachi Energy, joins the conversation to discuss the future of the energy grid. She explains the need for a more integrated and flexible system to accommodate the increasing reliance on renewable energy.- Laura emphasises the importance of storage solutions and the role of Hitachi Energy in facilitating the transition to a more resilient and secure energy system.LinksSemafor’s Net Zero newsletterSifted’s Climate Tech newsletter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.