Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations

Attempted Assassination at Trump Rally: A Reporter’s Eyewitness AccountThis video script details a harrowing recount of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. The narrative follows Greg Walton, a foreign correspondent for Agence France-Presse, providing a firsthand account of the chaotic and tragic event. Walton describes the moment shots were fired, the crowd's reaction, and the subsequent confusion and blame directed toward the media. The script also touches on broader political implications, climate tech discussions overshadowed by the incident, and Walton's perspective on covering such events as a foreign correspondent.00:00 Introduction and Initial Setup00:44 Breaking News: Attempted Assassination of Donald Trump01:35 On the Scene: Greg Walton's Eyewitness Account07:37 The Crowd's Reaction and Media's Role18:46 Security Concerns and Secret Service Response22:01 Suspect Profile and Investigation24:24 Implications for the Election and Climate Policy30:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe at wickedproblems.earth to get us ad-free!In this episode of Wicked Problems - Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan sits down with Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO of SolarPower Europe, to delve into the transformative potential and current challenges of solar power in Europe. The conversation spans the explosive growth of solar installations, the strategic goals of SolarPower Europe, and the imperative need for a flexibility revolution in energy systems.Solar Power Growth and Impact: The discussion begins with an exploration of the remarkable growth in solar installations in Europe, with over 100 gigawatts added in the last two years alone. Walburga explains the multifaceted factors driving this growth, including plummeting costs of solar modules and the versatile applications of solar technology, from large-scale plants to residential rooftops and even agricultural settings.Manufacturing and Innovation: Richard and Walburga address the challenges and opportunities in solar manufacturing. While Europe has lost its leadership in manufacturing to Asia, there is a concerted effort to regain this position through innovation and strategic investments. Walburga discusses the importance of scaling up manufacturing and the need for supportive policies and financing to achieve this goal.Flexibility Revolution: A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the need for a flexibility revolution in the energy system. Walburga stresses the importance of integrating demand-side and supply-side flexibility to manage the intermittency of solar power and prevent energy waste. This includes electrification of various sectors, enhanced grid connectivity, and substantial investments in storage solutions like batteries and hydrogen.Policy and Regulation: The discussion also touches on the critical role of policy and regulation in facilitating the growth of solar power. Walburga highlights the need for targeted incentives, digitalization of processes, and harmonized standards across Europe. She emphasizes the importance of eliminating barriers such as double grid charges and enabling co-location of different renewable technologies to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.Challenges and Misinformation: Richard and Walburga address common misconceptions and misinformation about solar power, such as concerns about land use for solar farms. Walburga provides data to counter these arguments, demonstrating the minimal land impact of solar installations compared to other uses like golf courses. They also discuss the broader societal benefits of solar power, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and increased competitiveness for European industries.Future Outlook: Looking ahead, Walburga expresses optimism about the future of solar power in Europe, provided that the necessary investments and regulatory frameworks are put in place. She underscores the urgency of accelerating electrification and flexibility to meet climate goals and ensure energy security.Conclusion: The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the critical role solar power plays in the energy transition. Richard thanks Walburga for her insights and encourages listeners to engage with the SolarPower Europe’s Solar Mission 2040 report, which outlines the path to a sustainable and resilient energy future.Links and Resources:Solar Mission 2040 ReportWalburga Hemetsberger on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guests:Adam Bell, Director of Policy at StonehavenMegan Kenyon, Policy Correspondent at The New StatesmanSugandha Srivastav, British Academy Fellow and Lecturer in Environmental Economics at the Smith School, Oxford UniversityOne week after Labour’s sweeping victory, we ask three of the smartest observers of UK climate and climate tech policy about early moves like the hiring of Chris Stark, the removal of the offshore wind ban, and picking a fight with NIMBYs - some of whom may turn out to be people who otherwise argue for faster climate action in the Greens and Lib Dems. Can they keep up the pace? UK's New Climate Policies:Adam Bell discusses the recent swift actions by the new UK government, such as lifting the ban on onshore wind. He highlights the necessity of equitable climate policies to avoid creating "low carbon haves and have-nots" and the potential for backlash if climate benefits are not widely shared​Challenges and Strategies in Climate Communication:Adam Bell emphasizes the importance of innovative communication strategies to garner local support for climate projects. He suggests that community-specific benefits, such as cash payments or co-ownership, might be necessary to gain broader acceptance of renewable infrastructure projects like pylons and wind turbines​(Meeting with Richard De…)​.Policy Insights and Green Economy Reporting:Megan Kenyon shares insights from her reporting on the green economy, including the rapid policy shifts following the UK election. She mentions the importance of engaging the community in the planning and implementation of climate projects to ensure their success and sustainability​Global Climate Action and Economic Implications:Sugandha Srivastav discusses the broader global context, focusing on emerging markets like India and their significant impact on global emissions. Innovative Approaches to Climate Policy:Sugandha highlights the importance of using the latest and most efficient technologies in the energy transition and the economic advantages of renewable energy over fossil fuels. She underscores the need for public investment in areas that provide significant societal benefits, drawing parallels with the rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine​Resources Mentioned:Adam Bell's Upcoming Paper: Adam mentions an upcoming paper that outlines strategies for achieving the UK's 2030 climate goals. Keep an eye out for this report for detailed policy recommendations​ at StonehavenMegan Kenyon's Green Economy Reporting: Subscribe to The New Statesman's "Green Transition" newsletter for in-depth analysis and updates on the green economy.Sugandha Srivastav's Work on Renewable Energy: Check out Sugandha's TEDx talk and her article in The Conversation about the potential of renewable energy and the economic implications of transitioning from fossil fuels. Subscribe at wickedproblems.earth to go ad-free and get our show notes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Running Tide folds and Microsoft and Google scramble to figure out how to make up for rising emissions from AI and data centres, what’s next for the carbon removals market?Recovering lawyer John Lin and Dr. Amber Janda, co-founders of Tau Carbon, join us to discuss. They discuss their journey from academics and different career paths to establishing a company focused on carbon removal using innovative biomass storage solutions. The conversation explores the inspiration behind their venture, the technical and logistical challenges they faced, and the implications of carbon market dynamics. Highlighting the importance of low-cost, scalable solutions, Tau Carbon aims to preserve biomass in an above-ground system to efficiently capture and retain CO2. The co-founders also reflect on the competitive landscape, referencing similar startups like Graphyte, and discuss policy needs to support broader adoption of carbon removal technologies.Wicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.00:00 Introduction to Wicked Problems00:14 Inspiration and Challenges in Climate Tech01:24 UK Climate Politics and Global Tech Reactions03:18 Introduction to Tau Carbon04:34 John's Journey from Law to Climate Tech06:48 Amber's Path in Chemical Engineering09:58 The Genesis of Tau Carbon14:37 Challenges and Evolution in Carbon Removal20:00 Business Viability and Market Challenges25:11 Reacting to Running Tide's Unexpected Exit25:57 Challenges in Carbon Credit Market27:23 Measurability and MRV in Carbon Removal28:04 Technical Aspects of Carbon Storage31:39 Comparing Approaches: Tau vs. Graphyte37:08 Policy and Market Dynamics in CDR42:35 Future Prospects and Final ThoughtsCatalysts for John and Amber* Greta Thunberg - John was deeply inspired by Greta Thunberg’s activism, which galvanized people worldwide to take action on climate change. Her ability to mobilize masses highlighted the power of collective action.More about Greta Thunberg* "An Inconvenient Truth" by Al Gore - Both John and Amber cited this seminal documentary as a major influence. It played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the urgency of climate change and inspired them to pursue solutions in this field.Watch "An Inconvenient Truth" on Amazon* "Good Night, and Good Luck" (2005) - Amber mentioned this film about Edward R. Murrow's battle against Senator McCarthy as influential. It underscored the importance of using one's skills and platforms for the greater good.Watch "Good Night, and Good Luck" on AmazonSubscribe at wickedproblems.earth to get ad-free episodes and support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For an ad-free version, sign up at wickedproblems.earthIn this Election Night special, we delve into the UK's political landscape surrounding the recent general election and its implications for climate action. The discussion highlights David Cameron's earlier attempts to position the Conservative Party as leaders in climate action, the feasibility of the UK's 2050 net zero emissions target, and Labour's policy proposals including GB Energy and potential carbon taxes. Featuring perspectives on regional economic disparities, business innovation, and public sentiment, the conversation includes reactions from our friends in Labour, the Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Greens and climate activists to the exit polls. The Labour Party's strong performance sparks varied opinions on their environmental policies, the potential right-wing populist backlash, and Labour's capacity to meet climate promises. Additionally, the role of comedy in political discourse and anticipated shifts in climate policy under new governance are discussed, culminating in a musical guest performance.0:00 How Did David Cameron's Polar Pledges Pan Out-00:05 David Cameron's Green Vision00:42 Announcing Net Zero by 205001:55 Debating the Net Zero Target02:27 Conservative Party's Climate Stance03:11 Public and Personal Perspectives on Climate03:29 Controversies and Policy Shifts05:12 Technical Difficulties and Guest Introductions05:49 Election Day Insights06:02 Campaign Reflections and Future Policies07:12 Dissonance Between Narrative and Reality08:41 Climate Politics and Election Predictions24:10 Regional Impacts and Industrial Policy25:44 Northern Ireland's Climate Challenges29:27 Policy Consistency and Business Collaboration37:53 Carbon Markets and Regenerative Agriculture44:49 UK's Leadership in Carbon Policy46:04 Challenges for Startups in the UK48:28 Introducing Andy Williams from Penta Group49:35 Labour Party's Unity and Policy Challenges50:34 Labour's Approach to Industrial Action52:12 GB Energy and Labour's Economic Policies54:17 Rupert Reed's Election Predictions55:55 Labour's Tax Policies and Carbon Tax Discussion57:11 Climate Tech and Public Finance58:02 Exit Poll Results and Political Reactions01:06:18 Lib Dems' Environmental Policies01:09:27 Labour's Majority and Future Challenges01:21:59 International Perspectives on UK Elections01:23:05 European Climate Politics and Populism01:24:00 Challenges in Climate Policy Implementation01:26:28 The Role of Labour and Greens in Climate Action01:30:22 US Climate Policy and State-Level Initiatives01:33:26 Comedy and Climate Change01:35:00 Local Political Engagement and Progressive Alliances01:36:22 The Future of Climate Policy and Political Satire01:47:25 Closing Thoughts and Reflections01:53:08 Musical Performance by Sunsharmer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Higham, Policy Fellow at the Grantham Institute, discusses global climate litigation trends, justice concerns between Global North and South, legislative solutions like Vermont's Climate Superfund Act, complexities of climate and biodiversity cases, rising populist governments, and parallels to tobacco litigation era. The episode closes with reflections on current political climates worldwide and key events influencing future climate policies.

In today's episode we have two insightful interviews that explore the frontiers of clean energy and the political landscapes shaping its future.Sign up for our UK election night livestream on 4th July at 9pm UK time with a great panel including Sarah Mackintosh, Rupert Read, Prashant Rao, Ben Cooke and more.Part 1: Hal Hodson, Americas Editor of The EconomistHal Hodson discusses his recent deep dive into solar energy, exploring the rapid advancements and exponential growth in the sector. He emphasises the importance of solar energy in the global energy transition and shares insights into the positive feedback loops driving solar's expansion. Key Points:The role of solar energy in the energy transitionPositive feedback loops in solar energy adoptionThe challenges and future potential of solar energyComparison to information processing technologiesRead more from Hal Hodson: The Economist - Solar Special IssuePart 2: Sarah Mackintosh, CEO of Cleantech for UKSarah Mackintosh provides an analysis of the different party manifestos in the UK, focusing on their support for innovation and the growth of the climate tech sector. Sarah also discusses the importance of cross-party collaboration and the potential for the UK to regain its leadership in climate tech.Key Points:Analysis of party manifestos and their support for climate tech Labour's framing of climate tech as an economic opportunityThe need for detailed plans and ambitious policiesThe importance of skills transition and workforce planningLearn more about Cleantech for UK: Cleantech for UKCatalystsOliver Morton - Editor and author known for his works on climate and energy. Recommended books:Eating the SunThe Planet RemadeScience Fiction Classics - Authors like Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, whose imaginative works have inspired Hal's thinking about technological unlocks and future possibilities.James Gleick - Nonfiction author known for his precise and holistic approach to fundamental issues. Notable works:The InformationChaosSign up for the live stream: Election Night Live StreamGet more at wickedproblems.earth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Wicked Problems features a profound discussion featuring Dr. Tadzio Müller - an influential German climate activist who writes at Peaceful Sabotage - on recent elections, the failure of previous climate activism strategies, the psychological dynamics of society's rejection of climate action, and the need to reinvent activism to empower communities amidst impending climate disasters.Tadzio and Richard Delevan cover a range of topics from the hunger strikes of climate activists in Germany, the emotional and practical aspects of activism, to the rise of right-wing populism in Europe and its implications. They compare current activism challenges to historical contexts, discuss the legitimacy and critique of electric capitalism with Tesla as a case example, and explore the importance of collective action and neighbourhood-level organisation in times of crisis. The conversation underscores the necessity for pragmatic and hopeful actions aligned with harsh realities to achieve meaningful change.00:00 Introduction: The Struggle Against History's Most Powerful System00:53 Guest Introduction and Previous Conversations01:23 Heat and Climate Activism02:56 The Chessboard Analogy and Climate Movement Challenges03:17 The Hunger Strike and Its Implications10:21 Empowerment in Climate Activism14:13 Climate Justice and Social Cooling21:02 Election Analysis and Youth Voting Trends29:44 Exploring the Capital Stack for Climate Solutions30:07 The Nightmare Scenario: Grid Failure and Heatwaves31:03 Book Recommendations and Activism Insights31:43 Reflecting on Climate Probabilities and Activism32:43 The Reality of Climate Collapse and Hope36:13 Political Shifts and Right-Wing Movements38:51 The Rise of Fascism in Europe41:49 The Coming Out of the Asshole Society46:32 The Role of Climate Activism in Society50:46 Tesla and Electrocapitalism56:34 Final Thoughts and Personal ReflectionsAnd check out our playlist to find songs from the show: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokut?si=b860f6aff6074649 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Delevan reports from London Climate Week 2024. Starting at the Groucho Club, he brings listeners to the flagship event at the ExCel, showcasing the vibrancy of the climate tech sector. He highlights interviews with key industry leaders including Duncan Reid of Reset Connect, Sarah Mackintosh of Clean Tech UK, and Lukky Ahmed, CEO of ClimateX, who discusses their recent $18 million funding round.Wicked Problems is member-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Ahmed explains how ClimateX focuses on helping financial institutions integrate climate risk into their models through sophisticated data analytics. Further discussions touch on the challenges and opportunities of the private sector in climate adaptation finance, the role of public policies, and the upcoming political developments that could impact the sector.Additional insights come from of Carbon Risk, discussing the effects of political shifts on carbon markets. The terrific Carbon Risk political risk pricing analysis that led to this chat: Europe's green backlash was priced in a long time ago And EDB’s Kenneth Ler on the ambitious sustainability goals of Singapore.The episode underlines the importance of policy stability, innovation, and global collaboration in tackling climate change.01:58 Overview of ClimateX's Mission02:13 ClimateX's Unique Approach to Climate Risk04:16 Focus on Financial Sector06:23 Data and Technology Behind ClimateX11:55 Adaptation and Future Plans20:45 Advice for Founders25:46 Introduction to Peter Sainsbury and Carbon Risk27:50 European Elections and Green Backlash33:35 Impact on Carbon Markets and Policies40:23 UK Political Landscape and Climate Policies45:44 Discussing Market Opportunities and Challenges46:12 Singapore’s pitch at Reset ConnectOur ad-free member feed is at wickedproblems.earth. And check out our playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2AWvHdqqNAUCJcByQEokut?si=2320c971486e4799 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the Future of Europe's Energy Transition: A Conversation with Christian RubyIn this episode of 'Wicked Problems, Climate Tech Conversations,' host Richard Delevan talks with Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in Europe's energy transition, highlighting the need for investment in grid infrastructure and the balance between environmental protection and climate goals. Ruby shares insights on the impact of recent geopolitical events and legislation on Europe's energy policies and emphasises the importance of industrial competitiveness, implementing renewable energy solutions, and stimulating electricity demand. The conversation also touches on the role of digital technologies and anticipatory investments in modernising the grid.00:47 Introduction and Welcome01:02 Overview of Eurelectric01:43 Eurelectric's Advocacy and Goals03:45 Challenges and Changes in European Energy Policy07:14 Biodiversity and Renewable Energy12:58 Grid Expansion and Infrastructure Needs20:26 Investment and Regulatory Challenges28:36 Christian Ruby's Personal Insights and Inspirations31:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.