Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations

In this episode of Wicked Problems, host Richard Delevan interviews author Stephen Markley about his book 'The Deluge,' which explores the impacts of the climate crisis on society and politics through a narrative spanning 30 years. The conversation delves into Markley's experiences and challenges while writing the novel, including its eerie real-world parallels and feedback loops in human behavior driven by climate change. They discuss how Markley uses literary fiction to depict complex human responses and radicalism's role in both social movements and reactionary politics. Key elements of 'The Deluge' include ideas like a progressive carbon tax and managed retreat, providing a platform for innovative policy discussions. The conversation also touches on climate-related technology and the importance of addressing unintended consequences, all while maintaining the book's realism. Markley shares insights from his interactions with influential climate figures, inspirational resources, and the critical task of mobilizing for effective climate action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Wicked Problems, a guest contributor - chief demon Screwtape - praises Senator JD Vance's climate responses in a recent vice-presidential debate, Screwtape elaborates on how Vance used emotional appeals, subtle racism, and misdirection to deflect from critical issues.00:00 Introduction to Wicked Problems00:08 Climate Change in the Vice-Presidential Debate00:44 JD Vance's Response and Misdirection01:32 Screwtape's Analysis of Misdirection02:26 Emotional Appeal as a Shield03:38 Subtle Racism and Division04:47 Clean vs. Dirty Economy06:10 Creating an Illusion of Agreement07:18 Replacing Complex Truths with Simple Half-Truths08:14 Reframing the Debate with Economic Patriotism09:13 Casting Doubt Through Opponent's Inconsistency11:13 Conclusion and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim McDonnell of Semafor discusses the shifting dynamics of climate and energy policy in both the US and the UK. As political leaders struggle to balance energy security, climate action, and public perception, they explore the "green hush" happening in campaign messaging—why politicians are avoiding direct references to climate change and how this could impact both policy and public engagement.The Green Hushing Phenomenon:"Green hushing" has emerged as a tactic in political campaigns, with politicians framing climate policy in terms of jobs, economic growth, and energy independence rather than climate impacts. Tim discusses how this strategic messaging shift might resonate with voters, particularly those in swing states like Pennsylvania.The UK's Conservative Party and Climate Policy:Turning to the UK, they explore how political leaders such as Robert Jenrick are echoing skeptical stances on net zero commitments, driven in part by a broader conservative narrative of climate action as an economic burden. Richard and Tim highlight the similarities between messaging in the UK and the US, examining how climate denial has evolved into opposition to climate costs.Climate Messaging in Campaign Ads:The duo analyzes recent campaign ads from environmental coalitions like the League of Conservation Voters and Environmental Defense Fund, which conspicuously avoid mentioning climate change, instead focusing on cost-of-living issues and corporate accountability. What does this say about the perceived salience of climate as a campaign issue?Implications of the "Dog That Didn't Bark":Richard and Tim reflect on the broader implications of the absence of climate discourse in the political spotlight, particularly in light of recent natural disasters in the Southeastern United States. They question how this "silence" may impact public awareness, climate activism, and ultimately, policy effectiveness.Transatlantic Messaging Echoes:The conversation also touches on the global nature of climate messaging, with the same rhetoric appearing across the US, UK, and even other parts of Europe. They discuss the role of think tanks and political alliances in propagating these talking points.Key Moments:[00:03:00] - Introduction: Recap of the DNC and the notable absence of direct climate messaging.[00:10:20] - Tim McDonnell on the “green hushing” approach in Kamala Harris’ campaign.[00:19:50] - The UK's Conservative Party and skepticism around net zero: Comparing US and UK narratives.[00:28:30] - Richard shares insights on climate campaign ads and their strategic avoidance of climate language.[00:37:45] - Recent climate disasters in the Southeastern US and the “silent” climate policy response.[00:45:15] - Outro reflections: The need for direct climate discourse in politics.Subscribe:If you found value in this conversation, subscribe at wickedproblems.earth for more deep dives into the intersections of climate, tech, and politics. Support our work by becoming a paid subscriber, and help us expand our coverage of climate tech issues. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Anatol Lieven, Director of the Eurasian Program at the Quincy Institute, shares his insights on the catastrophic implications of climate change, specifically the looming shutdown of the Gulf Stream. He discusses how this could lead to radical weather shifts, economic turmoil, and political instability. The conversation also highlights pressing migration crises and critiques the politicization of climate science. Furthermore, the episode explores the complex relationship between climate policy and future geopolitical tensions.

In this two-part episode, host Richard Delevan digs in on critical minerals with Jeremy Wrathall, the founder and CEO of Cornish Lithium. As the UK and other nations navigate their climate goals, we explore how companies like Cornish Lithium are developing sustainable, domestic sources of lithium and other critical minerals essential for the green energy transition. With the recent Labour Party conference and discussions around industrial strategy, this conversation couldn't be more timely.And we bring back our panel including Ben Cooke, Earth Editor at The Times, Freya Pratty from Sifted, and Ben Kilbey of BOLD VOODOO for insights into policy, energy infrastructure, and the broader European context.Key Segments:[00:02:14]Jeremy explains why Cornish Lithium’s designation as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project is crucial, and how the company aims to supply lithium for EV batteries and grid-scale energy storage.[00:04:07] The discussion turns to the broader lithium market, its fluctuations, and the role of UK and European supply chains, especially after challenges faced by companies like Britishvolt and Northvolt.[00:11:37]Jeremy and Richard discuss future innovations in battery technology, including solid-state batteries and the importance of securing local, low-carbon sources of critical minerals like lithium.[00:15:24] Jeremy touches on the need for governmental support in de-risking critical mineral investments, comparing UK policy to the US Inflation Reduction Act.[00:18:15]Insights into European supply chains, partnerships, and the strategic importance of lithium beyond the UK.[00:26:00] Richard is joined by Ben Cooke (The Times), Freya Pratty (Sifted), and Ben Kilbey (Bold Voodoo) to analyze Labour's climate policy, UK battery supply chain challenges, and Northvolt's recent setbacks.Links and Resources:Cornish Lithium: Learn more about the company Jeremy Wrathall leads, which is driving the UK's critical mineral extraction efforts. Cornish LithiumThe Times Earth Summit: Join Ben Cook and other experts in London for an in-depth look at climate and energy policy. Register for The Times Earth SummitSifted: Freya Pratty’s coverage of climate tech startups and subscribe to her Climate Tech newsletter. Sifted.euSubscription Info:If you're enjoying Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, make sure to subscribe at wickedproblems.earth for ad-free episodes and early access to new content. Consider supporting the show with a paid subscription to help keep these conversations going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our first UK party conference, in Liverpool.Can the UK reclaim leadership in climate technology, sustainability, and innovation?Our guests included:* Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough* Christian Hernandez, Founder, 2150.vc* Buffy Price, Co-founder and CEO, Carbon Re* Orla Shields, CEO and Founder, Kamma* Anna Bazely, Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs, Enoda* Paul McNamee, Director and Founder, Labour Climate and Environment Forum (LCEF)Key Discussion Points:* The Role of Private Sector Innovation in DecarbonizationChristian Hernandez from 2150 highlights the critical role private sector investors and startups play in accelerating climate solutions. He emphasizes the importance of deploying existing, scalable technologies—like heat pumps and energy-efficient infrastructure—while addressing the challenges of turning first-of-its-kind innovations into mainstream solutions. Hernandez also discusses the "time value of carbon," stressing that immediate action will have compounding benefits in the years ahead.* Public Policy and the Climate AgendaAndrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough, discusses the Labour Party’s focus on green jobs, skills development, and the importance of ensuring that climate action benefits working-class communities. He calls for a "people plan" alongside climate policies, ensuring that new technologies and innovations also create opportunities for workers through skills training and apprenticeships. Pakes advocates for pragmatic policies that deliver visible improvements in communities, from retrofitting homes to revitalizing local economies.* AI and Decarbonizing IndustryBuffy Price, co-founder of Carbon Re, explains how artificial intelligence can be used to reduce emissions in high-carbon industries like cement. She challenges the over-reliance on long-term solutions like carbon capture and storage, arguing for immediate, scalable technologies that can drive emissions reductions now. Her approach focuses on process efficiencies that can deliver significant carbon savings without the need for costly infrastructure overhauls.* The Built Environment and Housing CrisisOrla Shields, CEO of Kamma, discusses the complexities of decarbonizing the UK’s housing stock and the potential of using data to better understand and improve energy efficiency in buildings. She underscores the need for reform in how mortgage lenders incentivize retrofitting and the critical role of both public and private sector collaboration in making housing more sustainable. Shields emphasizes that green mortgages and intelligent data can play a crucial role in creating a more energy-efficient built environment.* Energy Infrastructure and Grid ResilienceAnna Bazely from Enoda speaks to the importance of modernizing the UK’s energy infrastructure to handle the growing demand for renewable energy. She highlights the need for grid-enhancing technologies and regulatory reforms that encourage innovation. * The Politics of Climate ActionPaul McNamee, head of the Labour Climate and Environment Forum, offers a broader perspective on how Labour can maintain momentum in driving climate policy forward. He speaks to the importance of balancing long-term goals with short-term political realities and the need for effective communication to ensure the public sees the tangible benefits of climate actionConnect* Twitter: @rdelevan* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richarddelevan/* Email: info@wickedproblems.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Richard Delevan interviews author Peter Schwartzstein, whose experiences give him a unique authority to explore how difficult it is to cover “climate security” from the front lines. Climate and ViolenceMany associate climate-related violence with regions like Syria. Schwartzstein explains that while climate change didn’t directly cause the Syrian civil war, it played a critical role in weakening the societal fabric. Severe droughts exacerbated poverty and rural migration, fostering instability and making communities more susceptible to revolutionary movements.The West and Climate-Related ViolenceThe developed world won’t remain untouched by climate-induced violence for long. The infrastructure, even in advanced economies, is struggling under the strain of extreme weather events.Catalysts:The Heat and the Fury: Reporting from the Front Lines of Climate Violence by Peter Schwartzstein.The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander SolzhenitsynA Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century by Barbara TuchmanThe Earth Transformed by Peter Frankopan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Sharpe and host Richard Delevan unpack key themes from Five Times Faster, focusing on the central question: why are we moving so slowly, and how can we accelerate decarbonisation? Sharpe shares how his time as a climate diplomat—particularly during the UK’s presidency of COP26—crystallized his understanding that we need to think faster and act faster if we are to keep the 1.5-degree target within reach. It’s not just about hitting the right targets, but about focusing on actions that matter across multiple sectors.Simon provides an engaging exploration of the economic models that are holding us back, taking us through "equilibrium economics" and how this outdated framework limits our ability to respond dynamically to a rapidly evolving global crisis. His argument for moving from static, reductionist thinking to a systems-based, more biological understanding of economics brings a fresh perspective on how to build a more resilient future.Simon Sharpe's Catalysts for Change:At the end of the episode, Richard asks Simon what he’s looking for in the coming year that will signal real progress on the climate front. Simon points to three key "catalysts" that could accelerate the pace of decarbonization:Global Power Sector Emissions Begin to Decline: Simon explains that while clean energy capacity is growing fast, it’s only when clean power generation outpaces the rise in energy demand that we’ll see global power sector emissions start to drop. He anticipates that this shift could happen soon, marking the first real sign of global emissions falling in a key sector.Electric Vehicle Momentum Continues: Despite some backlash and misinformation in the media, Simon is optimistic that the global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is still moving forward. He notes that in key markets like the UK and Europe, EV sales are growing, while sales of petrol cars are in decline. He’s watching for continued investment in battery manufacturing and vehicle production, particularly from China, to sustain this momentum.Zero-Emission Steel Production Gains Ground: Simon highlights the steel industry as the next major frontier for decarbonization. He believes the first commercial-scale investments in zero-emission steel production are within reach, and expects to see significant policy support from countries like the US and EU to drive this transition.Resources Mentioned:Simon Sharpe's book: Five Times FasterThe Breakthrough Agenda Report by the International Energy AgencyGreg Nimitz’s book: How Solar Energy Became CheapSimon Sharpe's upcoming NGO: S Curve EconomicsConnect with Us:Website: Wicked Problems - Climate Tech ConversationsTwitter: @rdelevanFollow Simon Sharpe on FiveTimesFaster.orgAD - Friend of the Show Ben Cooke is organising the 2024 Times Earth Summit will be set against a backdrop of the biggest election year in history. Book tickets here, and join experts to drill down into the government's environmental commitments, asking whether they are ambitious enough to meet climate goals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK Government's Bold Climate Goals: Renewable Energy and Policy ReviewIn this episode of Wicked Problems, host Richard Delavan discusses British energy policy and climate strategy with notable guests Adam Bell, Director of Policy at Stonehaven UK, and Trevor Hutchings, CEO of the Renewable Energy Association (REA). They explore the UK government's ambitious plans for ramping up renewable energy, infrastructure investments, and the strategic choices surrounding emerging technology and planning reforms. Bell and Hutchings offer insights into the new roles of the Crown Estate, planning process acceleration, potential investments in offshore wind, hydrogen, and small nuclear projects, as well as the importance of robust cross-departmental government collaboration and innovative industry leadership. Additionally, Hutchings emphasizes the significance of consumer engagement, skills development, and the broader economic implications of the renewable energy transition.00:43 Intro01:57 Adam Bell, director of policy at Stonehaven UK16:17 Trevor Hutchings, REA on the race for Clean Power 2030 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justin Reid from TripAdvisor discusses sustainable travel trends and consumer behavior, balancing travel enjoyment with environmental impact. The podcast delves into potential political shifts, including Kamala Harris's VP nominee pick. It also touches on Joe Biden stepping down, JD Vance's Republican VP nomination, and upcoming climate tech episodes in Texas.