Zero: The Climate Race

In this insightful conversation, Lauri Myllyvirta, co-founder of the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, discusses the pivotal moment in China’s emissions trajectory. He explains the factors behind a 1% decline in emissions, highlighting advancements in renewable energy and electrification of transport. Lauri delves into the reliability of China's data, the challenges of coal-to-chemicals expansion, and the interaction between trade tensions and climate policy. He shares thoughts on China’s potential to lead in green technology and the implications for global climate action.

Sebastian Kind, an energy policy expert and former undersecretary at Argentina's Ministry of Energy, shares insights on Argentina's impressive renewable energy journey. He discusses how the country escalated its renewable sources to nearly 18% despite significant economic challenges. Sebastian dives into the design of the groundbreaking 2015 renewable law, attracting $11 billion in investments through innovative guarantees, and highlights the crucial role of international partnerships, particularly with China. His work at RELP aims to replicate Argentina's success in other nations.

When Canada elected Mark Carney as prime minister, there was hope that the country would pursue climate policies. That hope was crushed after Carney signed a deal with the oil-producing province of Alberta that will roll back or dilute green regulations.  As a result, Steven Guilbeault, Carney’s culture minister has resigned from cabinet. He was the environment minister under Justin Trudeau and responsible for many of the policies at risk. This week on Zero, Guilbeault tells Akshat Rathi why the Alberta deal was the last straw. Explore further: Carney Defector Says ‘No Way’ Canada Can Meet Climate Goals Now - Bloomberg Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney Stands by His Climate Agenda - Bloomberg Zero is a production of Bloomberg Green. Our producer is Oscar Boyd. Special thanks to Danielle Bochove, Sommer Saadi, Mohsis Andam, Sharon Chen and Laura Millan. Thoughts or suggestions? Email us at zeropod@bloomberg.net. For more coverage of climate change and solutions, visit https://www.bloomberg.com/green. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this discussion, Dan Wang, a technology analyst and author of *Breakneck*, explores how China's engineering mindset has propelled its success in climate technologies. He contrasts this with the US's lawyerly approach, highlighting how political and cultural factors have stifled American innovation. Wang discusses the rapid electrification in China driven by energy sovereignty, suggests areas where the US can improve in clean tech, and touches on the implications of AI in this global race. He advocates for a shift towards an engineering-focused approach in America to enhance infrastructure and manufacturing.

David Stringer, Managing Editor of ESG and Climate Coverage for Bloomberg News in Asia, dives into Australia’s recent climate challenges. He discusses the implications of Australia losing its COP bid and how this affects its international standing. Stringer explains the political shift with the Coalition abandoning net zero emissions, highlighting the potential repercussions for future elections. He also addresses how this climate volatility could impact energy investments and household power bills, emphasizing the need for policy certainty.

Join Jennifer Dlouhy, a Bloomberg Green correspondent, as she breaks down the chaotic COP30 in Belém. With insights from on-the-ground reporting, she reveals the tangled negotiations, the impact of indigenous protests, and the challenges posed by a fire at the venue. Dlouhy discusses Brazil’s surprising push for climate transition roadmaps and highlights the prominent role of the Amazon in shaping discussions. The conversation dives into the effectiveness of COP30 and whether it truly moved the needle on climate action.

Join former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, a climate champion behind initiatives like Climate Trace, for a riveting conversation with Akshat Rathi. Gore highlights the stark influence of fossil fuel companies on democracy and global climate efforts, urging reforms in the COP process. He advocates for scaling climate activism and overcoming financial barriers in developing countries. With optimism, he discusses innovative ways to unlock private capital, while emphasizing the urgency of transparency in emissions reporting. Hope shines through as Gore encourages renewed political will.

Al Gore, former U.S. Vice President and Oscar-winning climate advocate, shares his insights on the intersection of geopolitics and climate action. He discusses how countries should respond to a defiant U.S. and reflects on whether we have reached 'peak Trump' politically. Gore addresses the implications of AI on energy demand and the resilience of the private sector in clean technology. He also warns of rising polarization and misinformation undermining global climate consensus, making for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation.

Darren Woods, CEO of ExxonMobil and a key figure in energy transition discussions, shares insights on his attendance at COP30 amidst industry skepticism. He highlights Exxon's support for a new carbon accounting initiative and the need for non-ideological climate solutions that balance economic growth. Woods discusses the challenges and opportunities in low-carbon ventures, such as hydrogen projects and lithium extraction. He emphasizes the importance of emissions reporting for tax incentives and provides a glimpse into Exxon’s future strategies.

Rachel Kyte, the UK's Special Representative for Climate and seasoned climate diplomat, joins Sarah Wells, who leads Bloomberg's climate and energy coverage. They delve into the rocky start of COP30 in Brazil and the urgent need for climate consensus. Rachel highlights the challenges of garnering international cooperation amidst political polarization. They also discuss Brazil's initiative for tropical forest funding, the prospects of other nations stepping up in U.S. leadership's absence, and the importance of relatable climate narratives for public support.