Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations

Joining us from Buenos Aires, Tasmin Lockwood, a seasoned journalist with a rich background reporting at the intersection of people, climate and technology. Tasmin shares her journey from local news in South Wales to international climate tech coverage at Insider, discussing the pivotal moments that shaped her career and her passion for the intersection of technology, society, and climate. The conversation delves into the nuances of climate tech, the importance of adaptation, and the collaborative spirit within the industry.Key Topics Discussed:* Tasmin's Career Journey: From her early days at the Northern Echo to her impactful role at Insider, Tasmin recounts her experiences covering tech and climate stories.* The Importance of Metadata and Privacy: How the Snowden revelations influenced Tasmin's focus on the societal impacts of technology.* The Power of Venture Capital: Understanding the critical role of VC in shaping today's technological landscape and its potential for driving climate solutions.* Collaboration in Climate Tech: The unique, cooperative atmosphere within the climate tech sector, where sharing knowledge and resources is crucial for collective progress.* Adaptation and Climate Finance: The urgent need for adaptation solutions and the debate around their investability, highlighting the importance of creative approaches to climate resilience.* The Role of Journalism in Climate Reporting: The challenges and responsibilities of reporting on climate issues, including the importance of accountability journalism and the rise of climate disinformation.Tasmin’s Catalysts:* Dark Waters (2019): A film based on the 2016 New York Times article about a lawyer's battle against DuPont's pollution, highlighting corporate responsibility.* The Lorax by Dr. Seuss: A compelling introduction to environmental themes, suitable for both children and adults.* Drilled Podcast by Amy Westervelt: An insightful podcast series on climate disinformation and environmental reporting.* Planet Critical with Rachel Donald : A podcast offering diverse perspectives on climate and technology, including critical analysis of current issues.Follow Tasmin Lockwood: LinkedInConnect with Us: LinkedIn | BlueSky | XRate and Review us: Spotify | Apple PodcastsSupport Wicked Problems:If you enjoyed this episode, please consider becoming a member at wickedproblems.earth, and leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or sharing it with a friend. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations on climate tech. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wicked Problems: Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan dives into groundbreaking new law in Vermont and its potential to reshape the fight against climate change. Richard is joined by two distinguished guests: Lucy Maxwell, Co-Director of the Climate Litigation Network, and Tobias Engelmeier, Co-Founder of Munich-based climate tech startup VIDA. They explore the intersection of litigation, legislation, and technological innovation in tackling climate change and holding major carbon polluters accountable.Key Topics Discussed:Interview with Lucy Maxwell- Lucy Maxwell discusses her role as Co-Director of the Climate Litigation Network and the organisation's work in climate justice.- Climate Superfund Act: Lucy explains the significance of the Vermont Climate Superfund Act, which seeks to fund climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience through damages collected from major polluters.- Human Rights Litigation: Insights into the human rights-based litigation approach, exemplified by cases like the Urgenda ruling and the recent European Court of Human Rights decision involving Swiss senior women.- Global Impact: Lucy highlights how these legal precedents are influencing climate litigation worldwide, including in Korea, Australia, and Latin America.Wicked Problems is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Interview with Tobias Engelmeier- Tobias introduces VIDA, which leverages satellite imagery and advanced data analytics to assess climate risks and opportunities for infrastructure projects.- Climate Data and Technology: Discussion on how VIDA technology provides granular climate risk assessments, helping investors, insurers, and governments make informed decisions about infrastructure resilience.- Vermont Legislation's Relevance: Tobias explains why VIDA has been closely monitoring the Vermont Climate Superfund Act and how such legislation could drive demand for climate adaptation technologies.- Future of Climate Adaptation: Insights into the potential for new markets and innovations in climate adaptation driven by legislative and regulatory changes.Quotes:- Lucy Maxwell: "The climate crisis is a human rights crisis, and governments have human rights obligations to adopt strong and robust climate laws based on science."- Tobias Engelmeier: "We are very excited about the Vermont legislation because it represents a massive change in the legal regulatory environment, potentially driving demand for climate adaptation technologies."Featured Guests:* Lucy Maxwell: Co-Director of the Climate Litigation Network, an expert in climate justice and human rights-based litigation.* Tobias Engelmeier: Co-Founder and CEO of VIDA, a Munich-based startup focused on using satellite imagery and data analytics to assess climate risks for infrastructure projects. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the first time anywhere, a law will make carbon polluters financially liable for climate damage.Here is part 1, about Vermont's groundbreaking Climate Superfund Bill. With independent climate journalist Dana Drugmand and climate litigation expert Nigel Brook, the discussion explores the implications of this pioneering legislation, its potential impact on fossil fuel companies, and the broader context of climate litigation globally.Dana Drugmand Vermont’s Climate Superfund Bill- Grassroots advocacy and the Make Big Oil Pay campaign.- Impact of the 2023 Vermont floods on the bill's momentum.Climate Attribution Science- Differentiation between event attribution and source attribution.- The role of key studies like the Carbon Majors report in linking emissions to specific companies.Legal Challenges and Future Outlook- Anticipated legal battles and possible federal court involvement.- Speculations on the bill’s impact if passed and potential ripple effects globally.Nigel BrookEuropean Court of Human Rights - Klimaseniorren- Discussion on the ECHR ruling against the Swiss government for inadequate climate protection.- Nigel explains its significance and potential for inspiring similar cases in Europe and globally.ClientEarth Case and Potential for Future Litigation- Analysis of the ClientEarth case in English courts and its implications.- Speculation on how new precedents might affect future climate litigation efforts.Vermont’s Climate Superfund Bill’s Global Impact- Discussion on how Vermont’s Climate Superfund Bill might influence global climate accountability efforts.- Potential parallels with existing U.S. lawsuits against oil majors.Tobacco Litigation Parallel and Future of Climate Accountability- Comparison of climate litigation to past tobacco lawsuits.- Potential outcomes if the Vermont bill sets a precedent.Guests:- Dana Drugman - Independent climate journalist, founder of One Earth Now and expert on climate litigation and policy. - Nigel Brook - Consultant with Clyde & Co., specialising in climate risk and litigation.Connect- LinkedIn- BlueSkyinfo@wickedproblems.ukRate and Review us: Spotify | Apple Podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, we delve into the intersecting crises of climate change, internal disintegration, and global security with Dr. Anatol Lieven, Quincy Institute Eurasia programme director. With a stellar career as a journalist, scholar, and author, Dr. Lieven brings a wealth of expertise to discuss the mounting challenges facing democracies worldwide.Key Topics Discussed:* Security Establishments and Climate Change:Dr. Lieven argues that inherited institutional priorities have led security establishments to focus on external threats, while the real challenges lie in internal disintegration driven by climate change, migration, and socioeconomic inequality.* Green New Deal and Nationalism:A compelling advocate for a Green New Deal, but on “realist” grounds, Dr. Lieven emphasizes the importance of compensating those most affected by climate policies while ensuring that the rich bear their share of the burden. He suggests that patriotism should be harnessed to mobilize public support.* U.S. Political Crisis and Constitutional Flaws:Lieven critiques the U.S. Constitution as "not fit for purpose" and explores the potential for a severe political crisis in the event of a contested 2024 election. He underscores the danger of both sides refusing to back down.* Global Shocks and the Importance of Resilience:The need to build resilience against global shocks is paramount, argues Lieven. He discusses how competition with China can help, but warns that "just-in-time" supply chains are profoundly dangerous.* Migration and Internal Stability:Migration remains a crucial issue affecting Western democracies, and Dr. Lieven describes how differing ideas about national identity can lead to severe polarization. He likens it to the challenges facing Middle Eastern democracies.Dr. Lieven’s Catalysts* The Uninhabitable Earth by David Wallace-Wells* The Economics of Climate Change: The Stern Review by Nicholas Stern* Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed by Jared DiamondAbout the Guest: Dr. Anatol Lieven is the Director of the Eurasia Program at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft. He has had a distinguished career as a journalist covering the former Soviet Union and Pakistan and has held academic positions at King's College London and Georgetown University in Qatar. He is the author of Climate Change and the Nation State.Rate and Review us: Spotify | Apple PodcastsConnect with Us:* Richard DelevanFollow Anatol Lieven:* Twitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring the taboo of climate adaptation, investing in resilience, shifting capital, and analyzing the investment landscape. Featuring guests discussing climate tech innovation, AI for wildfire control, and the importance of integrating adaptation with mitigation efforts.

Rupert Read and Liam Kavanagh discuss mobilizing a Climate Majority through strategic actions, SAFER campaign, role of public/private sectors in climate advocacy, empowerment through education, and community-level engagement. Emphasis on fostering active climate engagement and resilience for effective climate action.

Veteran journos Jonathan Leake and Ryan Chilcote discuss Fear & Loathing in Aberdeen, ECHR climate ruling, DESNZ's solar plan, critical mineral alliances. They delve into energy transition challenges, data center demands, and legal complexities in climate action. The episode also features interviews on high-density pumped hydro, energy storage solutions, and the environmental impact of digital energy consumption.

*INNOVATION ZERO DEADLINE*We’re getting this out before 31 March 2024 to remind you of your last chance to get free tickets to Innovation Zero at the London Olympia next month. Where you also might get a chance to see Matt Winning who will host the Innovation Zero Awards (ticketed separately) on the evening of 30th April.After the 31st, tickets for the 2-day event go for £199 each.TODAY’S BONUS EPISODERichard Delevan sits down with Dr. Matt Winning, who strikes the balance of being the OG of climate comedy with capital-S Serious academic as Head of Climate Research at Oxford Economics.In addition to pitching ourselves to Gary Lineker and Goalhanger to front “The Rest is Climate”, and suggesting that outgoing Climate Change Committee head Chris Stark could benefit from his own Anger Translator (if you’ve seen the Obama version), we explore how Matt keeps that balance.Show NotesThe Intersection of Comedy and Climate:* Matt describes the moment he decided to merge his work on climate change with his passion for comedy.* The challenges and rewards of communicating serious topics through humor.Career Path and Unexpected Turns:* Matt reflects on his unexpected journey from academia to the comedy stage.* Discussion on how current events, like Brexit and the election of Trump, influenced his comedy on climate change.Audience Reactions Over Time:* How audience perceptions and knowledge of climate change have evolved since Matt started his comedy career.* The impact of global events, such as the withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and the rise of Greta Thunberg, on public awareness.The Dynamics of Climate Comedy:* The process of crafting comedy that resonates with both climate experts and the general public.* Matt's experience with balancing humor and factual accuracy in his performances.Comedy as a Vehicle for Climate Communication:* Insights into how comedy can break down barriers and engage people in climate conversations.* Examples from Matt's shows that have effectively combined laughter with learning.Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Ambitions:* Matt shares his plans for future comedy projects, including shows that incorporate theatrical elements and staged protests.* The importance of creating new platforms and spaces for climate-related comedy.Links and Resources:* Matt Winning's Website: mattwinning.com* Machynlleth Comedy Festival: Details about Matt's participation and how to get tickets.* Edinburgh Fringe Festival: Information on Matt's upcoming shows in August 2024.* And Matt is one of LinkedIn’s best follows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations for a special Good Friday edition focused on the ever-evolving landscape of climate tech in the UK and Europe, the impacts of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, and insights into the insurance and energy sectors amidst climate change. Host Richard Delevan delves into these topics with insights from industry experts and reporters.Featured Guests:* Ben Cooke, Earth Editor, The Times* Freya Pratty, Climate Tech Reporter, Financial Times-backed Sifted.eu* Neil McLoughlin, Startup CoalitionSegment Highlights:* Climate Tech in the UK and Europe: A discussion on the recent UK Climate Tech Index and the potential impact of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act on climate tech companies considering relocation for better subsidies and investor pressures. Insights from Ben Cooke on Parallel Carbon’s move to the US and Freya Pratty’s observations on the broader trends.* Direct Air Capture and the Inflation Reduction Act: Ben Cooke shares insights from his article on Parallel Carbon, a direct air capture company moving from Manchester to Jersey City, NJ, highlighting the lure of the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act's subsidies.* The Impact of Energy Demand on Data Centers: Freya Pratty discusses her article on Oriole, which has just raised £10m and aims to dramatically reduce data center energy consumption using optical networks, shedding light on the significant energy demands of AI and data processing.* Sifted 100 Report: A look into the UK and Ireland's top 100 companies by revenue, showcasing fintech dominance and emerging climate tech ventures. Freya Pratty discusses the findings and the future of climate tech investment.* Climate Tech Index by Startup Coalition: Neil McLoughlin discusses the creation and purpose of their inaugural Climate Tech Index, its role in influencing policy, and the highlighted disparities and successes within the UK climate tech scene.* Insurance and Climate Change: Ben Cooke’s upcoming piece on the challenges and rising costs of flood insurance in the UK, reflecting on the broader implications of climate change on insurability and homeowner vulnerabilities.* Green Energy Tariffs and Corporate Practices: Freya Pratty teases an investigation into the transparency and impact of green electricity tariffs, aiming to demystify how companies label and benefit from "green" energy - and her hunt for climate tech founders who may have seller’s remorse for exiting to oil companies.For more in-depth conversations on climate tech and to support our work, consider subscribing for an ad-free experience and access to exclusive content at wickedproblems.earth.Credits:* Production Assistance: Theodore Delevan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Murray, Editor in Chief of Business Green, talks with Wicked Problems about everything from handling unexpected protestors to Terry Pratchett-inspired Solar Panel Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness.Join us as James shares insights from the Net Zero Festival, discusses the challenges of transition poverty, and offers a vision for a sustainable and equitable future.The Boots Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness: Drawing on Terry Pratchett's insightful humor, James discusses economic disparities in accessing green technology and the broader implications for the net zero transition.Mastering Unplanned Moments: Hear about the unexpected stage invasion at the Net Zero Festival and James's perspective on handling protests with respect and understanding.The Importance of Equitable Policies: A discussion on the necessity of designing policies and investments that recognize the risk of transition poverty and ensure benefits are shared equitably.Celebrating Women in Green Business: James introduces the Women in Green Business Awards, highlighting the role of diversity in driving the green economy and addressing the green skills gap.Looking Ahead to the Next Net Zero Festival: A sneak peek into the upcoming Net Zero Festival, its aims to celebrate and showcase the exciting developments in the green economy, and the introduction of a new, in-depth workshop stream.James’ Catalysts* David Wallace-Wells' "The Uninhabitable Earth" for its stark depiction of climate risks.* George Monbiot's "Heat" as a pioneering discussion on achieving a net zero economy.* Akshat Rathi's optimistic views in Climate Capitalism.* David Roberts’ volts.wtfFurther Reading* Women in Green Business Awards* UK Green Business Awards (June)Connect with James Murray* LinkedInConnect with UsWicked Problems is audience-supported media. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.* …or on your favourite podcast platform* Follow us on LinkedIn or BlueSky for updates and discussions on the latest in climate tech and renewable energy.ThanksWe appreciate you tuning in. If you got something out of it, feel free to share. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.