Zero: The Climate Race

Nicola Twilley, author of "Frostbite: How Refrigeration Changed Our Food, Our Planet, and Ourselves," explores the transformative power of refrigeration on food systems. She reveals how the vast "cold chain" ensures food freshness while also highlighting its environmental repercussions. The conversation tackles the paradox of refrigeration, discussing its role in both reducing waste in developing countries and exacerbating overconsumption in wealthier regions. Ultimately, Twilley advocates for mindful consumption to balance flavor and sustainability.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Akshat Rathi, author of Climate Capitalism, tackles the double-edged sword of capitalism in relation to the climate crisis. He explores how market forces can be harnessed for sustainability, highlighting advancements in renewable energy and the potential of government policies to drive green innovation. Rathi also emphasizes the transformative role of businesses in adapting to new regulations and the global shifts seen in countries like China and India towards cleaner energy solutions.

Eric Toone, a climate technology investment partner at Breakthrough Energy Ventures and former chemistry professor, dives into the bustling world of energy startups. He discusses the hype around innovations in carbon removal and the pressing need to modernize our electricity grid. Toone also highlights the potential of nuclear fusion over fission, underscoring recent private investment trends. Additionally, he tackles the promise of hydrogen as a transformative resource while addressing its logistical challenges. Expect insightful revelations about where real progress lies!

Scott Strazik, CEO of GE Vernova, discusses the evolution of General Electric from Edison's legacy to its current focus on renewable energy. He highlights the optimism surrounding the investment supercycle in electricity infrastructure. Strazik addresses the challenges facing the offshore wind industry and shares insights on advancements in turbine blade manufacturing. He also explores the role of natural gas during the transition to renewables and the importance of carbon capture technology in achieving sustainability goals.

COP29 wrapped up with a contentious $300 billion climate deal that left both developed and developing nations dissatisfied. Key discussions highlighted the logistical challenges and authoritarian measures overshadowing the summit. The fate of the 1.5°C target drew skepticism, especially regarding its impact on vulnerable island nations. Geopolitical tensions emerged post-election, complicating global collaboration. Amidst these challenges, there was a push for transparency and ambition looking ahead to COP30 in Brazil.

André Corrêa do Lago, Brazil’s Secretary for Climate, Energy and the Environment, shares insights into the challenging COP29 negotiations and Brazil's preparations for COP30 in Belem. He discusses the symbolic power of hosting in the Amazon and the logistical hurdles involved. The conversation highlights financial challenges for developing nations in combating climate change and Brazil's balancing act between expanding its oil sector and committing to climate action. The need for international cooperation and substantial investments is emphasized.

Ali Zaidi, President Biden’s National Climate Advisor, shares insights on why discarding energy transition efforts would be “economic malpractice.” Jonathan Pershing, an esteemed climate diplomat, discusses how global competition can drive faster green policy adoption. They tackle the implications of a potential Trump presidency on U.S. climate diplomacy, the critical role of state and local initiatives, and the challenges of climate finance amidst a shifting political landscape. Join them as they navigate the complexities of climate action and international collaboration.

At the UN's COP29 in Baku, the spotlight is on climate finance and the accountability of wealthy countries to support the energy transitions of smaller economies. Tensions surface with the looming possibility of a second Trump presidency impacting negotiations. A staggering $3 to $5 trillion is deemed necessary for combating climate change effectively. Meanwhile, China's mixed role as a major emitter and clean energy advocate raises eyebrows. The fate of global climate leadership hangs in the balance, highlighting the urgent need for collaboration.

Darren Woods, CEO of ExxonMobil, known for his involvement in climate debates, discusses the company's new approach to environmental responsibility. He advocates for maintaining the Paris Agreement and highlights the complexity of balancing fossil fuel demands with climate action. Woods dives into the role of innovative technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture, and the importance of carbon pricing. He also touches on challenges faced in algae-based biofuels and the company's commitment to reducing methane emissions, shedding light on Exxon's evolving climate strategy.

Delegates gather in Baku for COP29, raising questions about a petrostate's role in decarbonization. Concerns over U.S. political changes cast shadows on climate diplomacy. COP29 President Mukhtar Babyaev discusses Azerbaijan's ambitions amid significant challenges, including limited access for NGOs. The summit aims to tackle major inequalities in climate finance, with estimates suggesting a need of up to $2 trillion to support developing nations. The negotiations highlight the importance of collaboration in addressing global climate commitments.