Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations

For full show notes, ad-free listening, and our newsletter, check out wickedproblems.earth.In this episode of Wicked Problems, Richard Delevan talks with Laurie Laybourn of the Strategic Climate Risks Initiative and James Dyke from the University of Exeter. They tackle the stark reality that the preemptive climate strategies have largely failed and emphasize the need to leverage state capacities discovered during crises like COVID-19 to address the climate emergency. They explore concepts such as 'derailment risk' and discuss the potential catastrophic outcomes of the climate crisis, highlighting the vital need for dramatic policy changes and the role of academia, policymakers, and the private sector in combating climate change. The conversation also touches on the moral implications of surpassing the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold and the cynical role of fossil fuel interests. Dyke and Laybourn underscore the urgency for immediate, effective climate action and cooperation at a global scale.00:00 Introduction: Extraordinary Times and Climate Challenges00:20 The Climate Crisis: A Battle Unfought00:59 Real World Conversations: Experts Weigh In02:38 Introducing Laurie Laybourne and James Dyke03:40 The Doom Loop: Climate and Economic Risks11:05 Cascading Risks and National Security13:33 State Capacity and Climate Action24:42 Geoengineering: The Last Resort?30:30 Complacency in Risk Assessments31:45 Geoengineering and Emergency Toolkits32:51 The Urgency of Climate Action34:53 Societal Change and Optimism38:22 Financial Markets and Climate Risk44:39 The Role of Private Capital54:30 The Reality of Climate Protests01:01:26 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The last few days we’ve been tracking some of the nominees for Donald Trump’s Insane Clown Posse Cabinet. Starting with Chris Wright at Energy (better than expected!) and then Lee Zeldin at EPA (and NGL was fun to watch him get stuffed into a locker by Bernie Sanders, Ed Markey, and Sheldon Whitehouse). But after 9 hours of hearings watched for you, here’s the final Trump energy boss - Interior Sec nominee and potential head of the National Energy Council, North Dakota governor and billionaire Doug Burgum. Burgum is a fan of “clean coal”, “methane capture”, and “energy dominance” - and while he says he acknowledges climate change doesn’t think it matters next to using more coal to build more AI data centres to beat China. But like the LA fires, whether or not you believe in climate change, climate change believes in you. And if Doug Burgum becomes Interior Sec he will be responsible for brokering a deal next year to replace the expiring 100-year-old agreement between the Western US states including 40 million people to divide up the flow of the Colorado River. But in 2026, the Colorado will be in the middle of a 10,000-year-drought and a long-term decline - all due to climate change. Meaning there is a lot less to go around. We would have loved to hear more informed questioning about claims about the track record of carbon capture or rebuttal of nonsense claims that eg 'solar is more expensive than coal'. Even Angus King from Maine, almost certainly the best of the bunch, barely laid a glove on him.Join us at wickedproblems.earth to get these episodes ad-free and to get our newsletter and other content. Starting tomorrow, independent media that will offer insight and analysis without fear or favour will be more important than ever. But together we'll get through this. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get full coverage and ad-free content at wickedproblems.earthIn this episode of Wicked Problems, host Richard Delevan delves into the intense political landscape following Donald Trump's return to the White House and the subsequent Senate confirmation hearings for key nominees responsible for climate and energy policy. This detailed episode features in-depth discussions on climate and energy, examining the roles of various nominees, including former Congressman Lee Zeldin, in shaping future policies. Key highlights include probing questions from Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Ed Markey, who challenge Zeldin on his stance towards climate change and the fossil fuel industry. Additionally, the episode touches on the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act, the significant power wielded by the Department of Energy, and the critical issue of water rights in the context of the Colorado River. This episode promises a rich blend of urgent climate discussions, political dynamics, and the stakes for future U.S. energy policies. For listeners seeking a deeper understanding of these pivotal hearings and their potential impact on climate action, this episode is a must-listen.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:05 Trump's Influence on EPA and Fossil Fuel Politics00:57 Senate Confirmation Hearings Overview01:49 Climate and Energy Policy Debates02:29 Chris Wright's Nomination for Energy Secretary03:45 Lee Zeldin's Hearing and Climate Concerns06:22 Sheldon Whitehouse's Opening Remarks13:55 Senator Whitehouse Questions Lee Zeldin19:18 Senator Ed Markey's Climate Change Concerns31:57 Conclusion and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get our full coverage at WickedProblems.earth. In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan takes a closer look at the political theater surrounding the Senate confirmation hearings of Chris Wright, the Trump administration’s 2025 nominee for U.S. Energy Secretary. Wright, a vocal advocate for fossil fuels and CEO of Liberty Energy, has sparked controversy with his industry-first approach to energy policy and public comments dismissing the urgency of climate change.We unpack the political, environmental, and cultural implications of Wright’s nomination, asking hard questions about how his potential leadership could shape America’s energy future.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeChris Wright’s Energy Vision: Wright’s track record at Liberty Energy and his public statements on energy policy. How does his vision align—or clash—with the realities of a warming planet?The Confirmation Drama: Key moments from the Senate hearings, including fiery exchanges over Wright’s commitment to renewable energy investments and grid modernization.Fossil Fuels vs. Climate Policy: What Wright’s nomination signals about the Trump administration’s energy priorities in 2025 and the broader implications for global climate efforts.The “Non-Psychopath” Lens: A closer look at the surprisingly candid remarks from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle questioning whether Wright’s policies reflect a balanced, forward-thinking approach—or a dangerous return to fossil fuel dominance.Impacts on Climate Tech: How Wright’s potential confirmation could affect the U.S. energy landscape, from renewable energy incentives to innovation funding for climate tech startups. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

German political scientist, author and climate activist Tadzio Müller is pretty dark. But even he’s having trouble coping with the news. So he’s reading dystopian climate fiction, because it’s less depressing. Most recently, friend-of-the-show Stephen Markley’s The Deluge.Given the week that’s in it we of course had to talk about the wildfires but also the rise of Alice Weidel and Tadzio decoding her “Windmills of Shame” comment, which to a non-German just sounds like Trump with better writing but to this German sounds a lot more purposeful and sinister. Tadzio argues it would be a mistake to ignore the fact that there is a coherent political strategy at work behind those kind of daft-sounding comments that fly in the face of supposedly overwhelming support for climate solutions whether they’re from AfD, Donald Trump, or Nigel Farage.Tadzio has his own book out - available later this spring in English - the rough translation of the title is Between Peaceful Sabotage and Collapse: How I Learned to Love the Future Again. But don’t wait - after you listen or watch this third chat between your friendly neighbourhood neoliberal shill here and this German gay communist being far more articulate in English than the native speaker, subscribe to his “Peaceful Sabotage” newsletter to get a sense. Unlike the grumpier, earnest end of the climate movement, the great thing about Tadzio is that he (despite being as prone to depression as I am) is just so damned funny. But we did our best to keep him honest - despite the fact that when we first spoke a year ago we both made some predictions about 2024. If anything, his dark foreboding low-balled how bad the year would be. In 2025 I think we’re probably more in sync. And careful listeners will hear him trail “Collapse Camp” - a successor to “climate camp” - which will be apparently a mini-festival at the end of August where you can share bushcraft and other survival tips for coming climate catastrophes while also doing the things festivals are generally known for. We’ll keep you informed. In this episode:00:00 Introduction: Shame and Guilt in Politics 01:02 The Rise of Fascism in Germany 03:12 The Collapse of Societies 08:33 Climate Change and Irrationality 23:20 The Politics of Catastrophe 38:34 A Rainbow Family and Right-Wing Politics 39:12 Facing Fears and Political Solidarity 39:42 FEMA and Fascist Militias 41:39 Redefining Progressive Politics 42:22 Personal Anecdotes and Community Engagement 44:24 The Emotional Labor of Acceptance 47:32 Solidarity and Collective Prepping 49:38 Dystopian Futures and Political Realities 55:00 Enemies and Political Negativity 01:07:56 Looking Forward: Collapse Camp and Future Plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful discussion, Dana Drugmand, the founder of Climate in the Courts, delves into transformative legal trends shaping climate accountability. They explore Vermont's Climate Superfund law and New York's groundbreaking initiative holding polluters financially liable. Dana highlights the remarkable youth-led cases advocating for environmental rights in Montana and Hawaii. Additionally, the conversation touches on crucial global rulings that could reshape climate obligations, and the potential of innovative climate tech sparked by these legal victories.

In this discussion, energy expert Alexina Jackson shares her insights as an influencer in the digital transformation of energy grids. With a background in consulting, law, and major energy firms, she highlights the significance of grid-enhancing technologies and dynamic line ratings. Alexina explores the critical role of AI and storage in optimizing energy systems, emphasizing sustainability and informed decision-making. She also delves into future challenges and opportunities, focusing on economic growth, climate change, and the potential for innovative collaborations in the energy landscape.

Welcome to a special milestone episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations! In this 100th episode, hosts Richard Delevan and Peter Schwartzstein reflect on a tumultuous yet transformative 2024, joined by a host of friends and contributors from the climate tech and advocacy world. Together, they share personal highlights, challenges, and their hopes for 2025. Here's what to expect:Highlights from the Episode:Reflections on 2024: Peter celebrates the release of his long-awaited book, while Richard ponders the year's most maddening moments, including political turmoil and the slow pace of global climate action.Guest Spotlights:Adam Bell (Stonehaven) celebrates the UK government’s ambitious plan to overhaul the power system in just five years while questioning whether they’ll muster the resolve to see it through.Sarah Mackintosh (Cleantech for UK) highlights the closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power station and the lifting of the ban on onshore wind as key milestones for clean energy.Rupert Read (Climate Majority Project) turns catastrophe into a rallying cry, framing 2024’s challenges as a wake-up call for strategic adaptation.Jenny Chase (Bloomberg NEF) marvels at the solar boom in Pakistan and speculates on which country will follow suit in 2025.Dr. Matt Winning (Comedian and Lecturer) lightens the mood with his reflections on climate humor and hopes for action at COP in Brazil.Hannah Scott (Oxfordshire Green Tech) shares progress on the Climate Tech Supercluster, building a world-leading innovation ecosystem.Stephen (Climate Impact) discusses the momentum around fusion energy and the launch of new conferences to foster collaboration in the space.Tadzio Muller (Activist) emphasizes the importance of finding agency amidst systemic crises, offering a pragmatic yet optimistic take on climate justice.Themes Explored:The personal and professional victories that keep the climate tech community hopeful despite daunting obstacles.How politics shapes climate action, with contributors tackling the implications of global and local governance shifts, including a second Trump administration.The path forward for 2025: from fusion energy breakthroughs to decarbonizing transport and reshaping planning systems.Special Moments:Behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the show’s creation, including shoutouts to musical collaborators and reflections on guestlist privileges!A humorous exchange about the team’s occasional carol karaoke adventures.Key Takeaways:Climate challenges may seem insurmountable, but community, innovation, and collaboration can help shift the needle.As we move into 2025, clarity on problems could lead to greater clarity of purpose in tackling them.Join the Conversation:Tune in to hear from some of the brightest minds in climate tech and policy as we celebrate the power of storytelling, advocacy, and action. Here's to 100 episodes of wickedly good conversations—and to many more ahead! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of 'Wicked Problems: Climate Tech Conversations.' In this episode, host Richard Delevan is joined by Yehuda Borenstein, a serial climate tech venture builder and Chairman & Co-founder of the Direct Air Capture (DAC) startup RepAir. Yehuda discusses his journey and the innovations his team is working on to solve one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change. From DAC technology to integrating carbon capture with renewable energy, we dive into the nuts and bolts of the solutions that could help humanity reach net zero emissions. Yehuda also addresses the challenges and criticisms associated with funding from oil companies and shares his perspective on the broader climate tech landscape. This episode is packed with insights, optimism, and practical advice on tackling climate change. Don't miss Yehuda's firsthand insights into the future of carbon capture and the technologies that are transforming our fight against global warming. Please like, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform, and consider subscribing to WickedProblems.Earth for an ad-free experience and exclusive content.00:51 Challenges in Carbon Dioxide Removal03:09 Key Technology Areas for Climate Solutions07:06 Interview with Yehuda Borenstein07:24 Yehuda's Journey in Climate Tech28:38 Innovations in CapEx and Material Efficiency29:51 Addressing Common Questions in Climate Tech30:23 Challenges and Solutions for Off-Takers and Customers31:10 Carbon Capture Strategies and Market Dynamics34:08 Innovative Approaches to Carbon Capture39:15 Energy Requirements and Economic Implications43:24 Storage Methodologies and Practical Demonstrations47:41 The Role of Oil Companies in Decarbonization49:58 Reflections on Climate Week and Industry Sentiments55:26 CATALYSTS: Personal Motivations and Inspirations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 'Wicked Problems,' host Richard Delevan discusses the interconnections between climate change, geopolitical instability, and political turmoil, coined as the 'doom loop.' The episode explores how rising inflation and extreme weather events influence political movements and undermine climate actions. Delavan speaks with Roz Savage, a new MP for the South Cotswolds, about her climate and nature bill, highlighting the need for comprehensive legislation and public engagement. Later, Dr. Maria Antonia Tigre from the Sabin Center and Dana Drugman of One Earth Now discuss the implications of the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion on state obligations to mitigate climate change, emphasizing the role of legal frameworks in shaping global climate action.And a subscription at Wickedproblems.earth makes a great holiday gift! 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks01:03 Climate Change and Economic Instability02:52 Political Implications of Climate Disruption04:20 Rising Costs and Food Prices05:51 Flooding and Insurance Issues10:35 International Climate Litigation12:18 Interview with Roz Savage26:02 Ambitious Private Member's Bill on Climate and Nature26:41 Long-Term Commitment to Climate Advocacy27:39 Introduction to Legal Experts on Climate Obligations28:39 Historic Moment in International Climate Law34:44 The Role of Non-State Actors in Climate Litigation38:16 Implications of ICJ Advisory Opinion on Climate Change45:18 Challenges and Opportunities in Climate Litigation54:57 Final Thoughts and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.