Zero: The Climate Race

Mike Schroepfer, former CTO at Meta and now running Gigascale Capital, discusses the current downturn in climate tech investments. He explores the shift from software to hardware in this sector, highlighting the unique challenges in manufacturing and energy solutions. Schroepfer warns about the dangers of funding cuts to U.S. research and underscores the potential for AI to drive energy innovation. The conversation sheds light on the complex dynamics of venture capital and the vital need for continued investment to foster long-term advancements in climate technology.

Lauri Myllyvirta, co-founder of the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air and an expert on China's climate and energy, discusses the pivotal moment of China's emissions possibly peaking. He highlights the surge in renewable energy and electrification in transport. Myllyvirta also dives into concerns about the impact of the US-China trade war on climate strategies. Additionally, he examines how China's transition from manufacturing to household consumption could reshape its emissions trajectory amidst economic changes.

Claes Westerlind, CEO of NKT, a leading cable manufacturer, delves into the pressing bottleneck of high-voltage cable supply in the clean energy transition. He explains the complexities of manufacturing, from the differences in land and underwater cables to the challenges posed by rising global electricity demand. Claes highlights the geopolitical landscape, particularly how competition with China impacts the industry. He also touches on historical collusion practices and the hesitance of companies to expand production despite soaring demand.

Olivia Rudgard, a writer for Bloomberg Green focused on greener living, joins the discussion on the urgent shortage of skilled workers in the energy transition. She highlights the critical gap in labor for heat pump installations, which threatens the electrification of Western economies. The conversation covers innovative solutions like training programs and the need for policy changes to attract talent. Rudgard also explores the challenges facing the UK's heat pump market, including inadequate government support and the necessity of upskilling workers for a sustainable future.

Oscar Boyd, producer of the Zero podcast, joins to discuss the alarming bottleneck stalling our electrified future: a global transformer shortage. He dives into the complexities of transformer supply and the extended delivery timelines that are derailing energy projects. Boyd highlights the crucial role of electrification in decarbonization and the unexpected challenges posed by outdated regulations and manufacturing limitations. This conversation sheds light on why our push for clean energy is slower than anticipated, sparking important considerations for policymakers!

Jan Wurzbacher, co-founder and co-CEO of Climeworks, discusses the critical challenges facing carbon capture technology in the wake of US government funding cuts. He shares insights on the recent layoff of 106 staff members and the emotional impact on the team. Wurzbacher highlights the operational performance of their ORCA plant and the upcoming Mammoth project. The conversation touches on the role of consumer engagement in carbon credits and the complexities of securing sustainable funding to meet ambitious climate goals. Tune in for a look into the future of carbon removal!

In this engaging discussion, Greg Wasserman, head of climate investment at Wellington Management, shares his 20 years of experience in climate investing. He tackles the uncertainty of investing amid fluctuating political landscapes and explores how AI is shaping energy strategies. Wasserman highlights the evolution of climate tech, emphasizing innovation's critical role in driving sustainable solutions. He also discusses the challenges posed by tariffs on solar and battery technologies, reflecting on the delicate balance between risk and opportunity in a transforming market.

David Stringer, managing editor at Bloomberg Green in Asia, discusses Australia’s complex position in the energy transition. He highlights the country's role as the largest coal exporter while aiming for a 43% emissions reduction by 2030. Stringer navigates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's climate agenda post-election and the challenges of balancing ties with the US and China. The conversation also touches on nuclear energy prospects amidst public skepticism and the potential impacts of recent natural disasters on climate policy.

Discover the fascinating journey of a pioneering pharmacist who transformed a small Thai pharmacy into a global powerhouse. Explore how the company, recognized by the royal coat of arms, played a vital role during Thailand's modernization and made strides in telecommunications and healthcare. Learn about its commitment to innovation while balancing growth with social responsibility. Through historical challenges, B.Grimm’s legacy continues to thrive, emphasizing values that shape its future while contributing positively to society.

In this discussion, Daniel Bokov, a senior reporter at Bloomberg Green with a robust background in climate and Canadian politics, dives into the recent election of Mark Carney as Prime Minister. They assess Carney's potential to shift Canada from climate laggard to leader, exploring the challenges he faces in implementing effective climate policies while navigating U.S. trade relations. The conversation highlights the urgent need for Canada to lift its climate commitments amidst economic pressures, emphasizing the delicate balance between traditional energy and clean initiatives.