Solving for Climate

Guillaume Lambotte, Chief Scientist at Boston Metal, is at the forefront of revolutionizing steel production to combat climate change. He discusses the steel industry's significant carbon footprint and the promising innovation of molten oxide electrolysis. Lambotte emphasizes that while decarbonizing this age-old industry won't happen overnight, even minor emission reductions can make a big difference for our planet. He also addresses the need for a universal framework to support sustainable practices in steel manufacturing.

As a senior researcher at Trase, Mark uses data like satellite imagery and shipping routes to help companies and governments track supply chains. Trase identifies links to deforestation, but do companies actually use this data to make a difference?Season three of Solving for Climate is sponsored by Xlinks xlinks.coMark Titley, TraseCo-hosts Hannah Ritchie, Deputy Editor and Lead Researcher, Our World in Data @_HannahRitchie Rob Stewart, Co-founder and Director of Sustainability, KobaSubscribe to Hannah's Substack 'Sustainability by numbers'Want to get in touch? Email solvingforclimate@gmail.comMaddie Drury, Series Producer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Chief Executive of the UK’s Climate Change Committee explains how our lives will change by 2050 if we continue to cut carbon emissions. She explains how her electric car is like her 'third child' and why she isn’t recommending we use hydrogen to power transport in the future.Season two of Solving for Climate is sponsored by Xlinks xlinks.coEmma Pinchbeck, the Climate Change CommitteeCo-hosts Hannah Ritchie, Deputy Editor and Lead Researcher, Our World in Data @_HannahRitchie Rob Stewart, Co-founder and Director of Sustainability, KobaSubscribe to Hannah's Substack 'Sustainability by numbers'Want to get in touch? Email solvingforclimate@gmail.comMadeleine Drury, Series Producer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kathleen Alexander, CEO of Savor and a pioneer in sustainable food technology, discusses groundbreaking synthetic alternatives to traditional dairy and vegetable oils. She shares the journey of creating a fat perfect for pastries and explores innovative methods that minimize land use and environmental impact. The conversation delves into the chemistry behind these oils, the significance of branding for market entry, and the surprising notion of using fossil fuels as a food source. A blend of culinary innovation and sustainability challenges awaits!

Cat Clifford, Senior Science and Economics Correspondent for Cipher News, dives into the resurgence of nuclear energy amid climate goals. She discusses the innovative small modular reactors and the promising future of nuclear fusion. Cat highlights China's leadership in the nuclear sector and the complex public perceptions stemming from past incidents. The conversation also touches on safety advancements and bipartisan support for nuclear policies, revealing the geopolitical tensions that influence global energy strategies.

Zeke Hausfather, a climate scientist affiliated with Stripe Climate and the IPCC, dives deep into the world of carbon removal technology. He explains the balance of addressing carbon emissions and exploring innovative solutions like direct air capture and advanced rock weathering. Hausfather emphasizes the urgency for investment in these technologies over traditional clean energy approaches and discusses the interplay between AI's energy demands and climate impacts. He also highlights the vital connection between academic research and industry practices for effective climate solutions.

Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports, is at the forefront of revolutionizing urban travel with electric air taxis. He discusses the imminent launch of air taxi services in Dubai and the crucial role of vertiports in this shift. The conversation dives into the challenges and regulations facing the industry, particularly in the UK. Walker also highlights the excitement around electric air travel while addressing public concerns about noise and cost. With the potential to transform both urban and rural transportation, these innovations could reshape our future.

Lauren Eatwell, Head of Engineering at BAR Technologies, is the innovative mind behind the WindWings project, which retrofits cargo ships with sails to harness wind energy. She discusses the maritime industry's significant contribution to global emissions and the ambitious goal of decarbonization. Key topics include the practical advantages of wind technology for fuel efficiency, the industry's slow adoption of sustainable practices, and the necessity for global collaboration and innovation in reducing shipping's carbon footprint.

What are carbon credits? Can you eat fossil fuels? Why is nuclear energy back in fashion? Co-hosts Dr Hannah Ritchie and Rob Stewart will answer these questions and more in a new season of Solving for Climate. Season two will be travelling sustainably into your podcast feeds at the end of February. Make sure you’re following the podcast so you are notified when episode one arrives.Season two of Solving for Climate is sponsored by Xlinks xlinks.coCo-hosts Hannah Ritchie, Deputy Editor and Lead Researcher, Our World in Data @_HannahRitchie Rob Stewart, Co-founder and Director of Sustainability, KobaWant to get in touch? Email solvingforclimate@gmail.comSubscribe to Hannah's Substack 'Sustainability by numbers'Madeleine Drury, Series Producer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Luke Haverhals, CEO of Natural Fiber Welding Co and material scientist, discusses pioneering sustainable materials made from plants. He reveals the stark realities of plastic's environmental impact and toxic legacy. Haverhals introduces innovative plant-based alternatives, envisioning a world where clothing, furniture, and more return to the earth instead of polluting it. He also addresses challenges in the industry, from supply chains to the need for systemic change, all while envisioning a greener future free from fossil fuel dependency.