Zero: The Climate Race

Science fiction writer Kim Stanley Robinson, known for his Mars trilogy and 'The Ministry for the Future,' shares his vision of 2025 amidst the climate crisis. He examines the real-world implications of his narratives, contrasting them with current climate politics. Robinson discusses the potential of science fiction to inspire positive change and the importance of international cooperation, especially the role of the UN. He critiques nostalgic views and emphasizes the need for diverse solutions to tackle climate challenges while fostering a hopeful future.

Laura Millan, a Bloomberg Green journalist based in Madrid, recounts her firsthand experience of the recent nationwide blackout in Spain. She discusses how this event raised questions about solar power's reliability amid the renewable energy surge. Key topics include the vital role of synchronous compensators in stabilizing grids and the promise of smart inverters that enhance system resilience. Millan emphasizes the pressing need for technological advancements and infrastructure investments to prevent future blackouts as we transition to greener energy sources.

Rachel Slaybaugh, a partner at DCVC and former nuclear engineering professor, dives into the promising world of small modular reactors (SMRs). She discusses how these smaller, cost-effective reactors could revolutionize energy production. The conversation explores their current deployment in Russia and China, challenges in the West, and the role of government in fostering innovation. Additionally, Slaybaugh addresses public perceptions of nuclear energy and the potential for SMRs to enhance energy resilience while tackling climate change.

Rachel Slaybaugh, a former nuclear engineering professor and now a partner at DCVC focused on climate and energy, dives into the renewed interest in nuclear power. She discusses the booming electricity demand driven by AI and electric vehicles, and Microsoft’s striking deal to revive the Three Mile Island plant. Slaybaugh examines the historical challenges of nuclear development, the promise of advanced reactors, and the growing bipartisan support for nuclear energy in the U.S. This conversation highlights how modern nuclear solutions could become vital in addressing energy needs.

Laura Clarke, CEO of ClientEarth, a legal NGO fighting environmental harm, joins the conversation to discuss a landmark case initiated by law students from Pacific island nations that ascended to the International Court of Justice. They explore the court's game-changing ruling obligating countries to act on climate change, its implications for statehood amidst rising sea levels, and the intersection of climate action with human rights. Clarke highlights the global urgency for legal reforms and the role of litigation in demanding accountability from polluters.

Venture capitalist Vinod Khosla, founder of Khosla Ventures and a pioneer in breakthrough technologies, shares his insights on the challenging landscape of climate tech. He discusses the significant drop in investments and why he remains optimistic about the future of fusion energy within five years. Khosla highlights the detrimental impact of immigration policies on the talent pipeline vital for innovation. He argues that despite financial setbacks, the best clean tech solutions are yet to come, emphasizing the need for global talent to tackle these climate challenges.

Jigar Shah, a clean energy expert and former head of the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office, dives into the implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which threatens to slash nearly $500 billion from clean energy funding. He discusses the resilience of the clean energy sector amid political setbacks and competition with China. Shah examines the future of sustainable aviation fuel, legislative challenges in financing, and the vital role of community support for thriving clean energy initiatives. His insights reveal a complex but hopeful landscape for climate progress.

Ethan Zindler, head of policy research at BloombergNEF and former climate counselor to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, is joined by Bloomberg reporter Emily Birnbaum, who covers corporate lobbying in DC. They dive into how recent legislative changes threaten the renewable energy sector, risking higher electricity bills. The discussion highlights the tension between fossil fuel interests and clean energy initiatives, exploring the implications for U.S. competitiveness in AI and the ongoing struggle to balance energy policies amidst political lobbying.

Retired Lieutenant General Richard Nugee, author of the UK Ministry of Defence’s climate change report, joins to discuss the military's substantial carbon footprint, accounting for 5.5% of global emissions. He highlights the urgent need for NATO to adapt its defense spending to include sustainable practices. The conversation dives into how climate change endangers military readiness and the necessity for innovative green technologies. Nugee emphasizes that militaries must integrate climate resilience into their operations while addressing the challenges posed by extreme weather.

Dr. Link, Chairman of B.Grimm, leads a historic Thai conglomerate known for its compassionate business model. He discusses the essence of merging purpose with profit and the four immeasurables of compassion rooted in Buddhism. The conversation covers the importance of core values like positivity and professionalism, as well as the philosophy of gross national happiness influencing business practices. Dr. Link also highlights their conservation initiatives, such as tiger protection, and their dedication to promoting education and vocational training in Thailand.