Zero: The Climate Race

Dive into the pivotal U.S. election with a thorough analysis that keeps you in the loop about the latest developments. Explore the potential for a drawn-out outcome and its implications on global markets. Stay updated with real-time results, and engage in insightful discussions that deepen your understanding of this critical moment in politics.

Stephen Kunken, an actor known for his role as Don Pearlman in the play "Kyoto," discusses the intricate relationship between theater and climate negotiations. He shares insights on portraying a fossil fuel lobbyist and the dramatic stakes involved in climate summits. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy in understanding climate challenges and the emotional power of storytelling in shaping public perception. Kunken also reflects on the significant historical context of agreements like Kyoto and their relevance to today’s climate discourse.

Gabrielle Copolla, a Bloomberg auto reporter in Detroit, and Danny Lee, Bloomberg's China EV reporter in Hong Kong, dive into BYD’s impressive transformation from a battery maker to the global leader in affordable electric vehicles. They discuss BYD's clever strategy of targeting emerging markets to counteract tariffs and its innovative supply chain management. The duo also highlights the significant role of the Blade battery in enhancing performance and how BYD’s aggressive expansion poses a challenge to established players like Tesla.

Vinod Khosla, a tech investor and founder of Khosla Ventures, discusses his bold stance on climate and politics. He believes Elon Musk should reconsider supporting Donald Trump, arguing it harms the planet's future. Khosla advocates for advanced geothermal technology, which could dramatically increase electricity supply. He also debates nuclear energy's role amid rising AI demands. Additionally, he critiques the political landscape in Silicon Valley and calls for balanced regulations to harness innovation while addressing climate challenges.

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, dives into the ride-sharing giant's ambitious green goals amidst growing backlash against electric vehicles in the US and Europe. He reveals Uber's plans to electrify its fleet by 2030 and advocates for more EVs on the road. The conversation touches on the challenges of transitioning drivers to electric models and the intersection of EVs with autonomous technology. Dara emphasizes the business benefits of sustainability while discussing the critical need for a fair transition for Uber's workforce in this evolving landscape.

Gautam Naik, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in the interface of finance and climate change, dives into the world of catastrophe bonds. He explains how these financial tools can help rebuild lives after disasters like Hurricane Milton, while simultaneously lining Wall Street's pockets. Naik discusses the profitability of cat bonds for hedge funds, the differences from traditional insurance, and the dilemmas faced by vulnerable nations like Jamaica, shedding light on the complex relationship between profit and recovery in a changing climate.

In this engaging discussion, Avinash Persaud, a seasoned expert on climate finance and special advisor for the Inter-American Development Bank, dives into the urgent financial dilemmas facing developing nations at COP29. He highlights the staggering $1 trillion needed yearly, emphasizing the disconnection between beneficiaries and funders. Persaud argues that climate change is ultimately 'uninsurable' and advocates for innovative financial solutions to empower poorer countries in the energy transition. His insights shed light on the complexities of mobilizing funds and fostering genuine international collaboration.

Susana Muhamad, Colombia's environment minister, and Liliam Chagas, Brazil's chief climate negotiator, discuss Colombia's ambitious $40 billion plan to transition from fossil fuels to green industries. They emphasize the need for global cooperation to encourage other nations to join the fossil fuel nonproliferation treaty. The conversation dives into Brazil's challenges and commitment to renewable energy, showcasing a unique balance of energy security and climate action. Both leaders highlight the critical role of political will and innovation in driving significant environmental change.

Bob Mumgaard, CEO of Commonwealth Fusion Systems and a former MIT doctoral student, discusses the exciting world of nuclear fusion. He breaks down the innovative bagel-shaped tokamak reactor and its role in sustainable energy. Mumgaard highlights the historical quest to replicate the Sun's energy and the advancements in superconductors that make fusion more efficient. With over $2 billion in backing, he believes the nuclear fusion industry is on the cusp of a groundbreaking transformation, aiming for practical energy production by 2030.

Jen Dlouhy, an energy and environment reporter, dives into the high-stakes climate policies of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump as the presidential election approaches. Dlouhy highlights the potential for Trump to roll back existing climate regulations, while discussing Harris's intent to carry forward Biden's initiatives, albeit with administrative challenges ahead. The conversation underscores how each candidate’s strategies could shape both domestic and global climate efforts, making the election pivotal for the future of climate policy.