Speed & Scale

Did you know the UK just closed its last coal plant? Hooray! But after taking a moment to celebrate, Ryan and Anjali reflect on what to do about natural gas – a fossil fuel that the UK isn’t replacing fast enough to meet its climate goals. Fortunately, there are some really smart people coming up with bold solutions. They dive into Amol Fadke's groundbreaking idea to repurpose existing plants – a kind of "Airbnb for the grid" approach that could double transmission capacity, save billions, and accelerate the transition to clean energy.For the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/speed-and-scale-transcriptInterested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the surprising story of how Texas – rich in oil and gas – became America's biggest producer of wind energy. For our first episode, Ryan and Anjali talk with Pat Wood, once George W. Bush’s right hand man and head of Texas's Public Utility Commission, to uncover the innovative approach that turned Texas into a renewable energy powerhouse. It’s a story about what could get done before partisan politics got in the way of good climate policy, and it shows that economic incentives for consumers, government, and companies can play a huge role in supercharging clean energy.For the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/speed-and-scale-transcriptInterested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is an episode of a podcast we think you'll love, Climate One. A third of Americans say that they've skipped food, medicine, or something else to be able to afford their energy bills. Much of the increase in the cost of electricity is driven by rising demand from artificial intelligence and data centers, industrial on shoring and hotter temperatures.How does your electricity bill get calculated, and who’s in charge of setting those rates? Does public power serve consumers better than investor-owned utilities? And will rising electricity prices dampen the transition to cleaner sources of energy?Guests:Shelley Welton, Professor of Law and Energy Policy, University of PennsylvaniaSeverin Borenstein, Professor, Haas School of Business, UC BerkeleyKevin Miller, Reporter, Maine Public RadioFor the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/speed-and-scale-transcriptInterested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coming September 22nd, 2025: Speed & ScaleTED has a new podcast.Here’s a new climate story: the biggest solutions to our climate crisis exist all around us, but they’re hiding in plain sight. Join hosts Ryan Panchadsaram and Anjali Grover as they identify the greatest climate wins unfolding across the world. They’ll chat with the people tackling the issues quickly, efficiently, and at a scale that actually makes a difference. From the explosion of wind energy in Texas (yes, Texas!) to ending coal in England, you’ll hear fresh perspectives, solution-oriented thinking and inspiring stories that will leave you knowing we CAN solve humanity’s toughest challenge.Subscribe wherever you are listening to this.For the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/speed-and-scale-transcriptInterested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robin Riedel, a Partner at McKinsey & Company and expert in aviation, discusses the pressing need for decarbonization in the aviation industry. He outlines five key strategies, including sustainable aviation fuels and innovative aircraft designs. The conversation delves into the role of AI in improving fuel efficiency and the challenges of battery technology and hydrogen fuel. Riedel also shares insights on carbon offsetting strategies and the dangers of greenwashing, along with valuable career advice for those looking to enter the sustainable aviation field.

Astrobiologist Tara Djokic and her team discovered an ancient rock in the Australian desert that challenges the theory of life's origin in the ocean. They discuss how this finding near a hot volcanic pool shifts our understanding of early life on Earth, suggesting hot spring pools played a key role. The podcast explores the evolution of life on Earth and the impact of human actions.

Environmental justice leader Peggy Shepard discusses the disproportionate impact of pollution on marginalized communities and advocates for building an equitable future. She highlights the concept of 'green zones' to address historical pollution and harmful policies, emphasizing the need to turn 'sacrifice zones' into areas that prioritize community health and well-being.

Biomaterials investigator Dan Widmaier discusses sustainable replacements for traditional fashion materials, introducing a leather alternative made from mushrooms. The podcast explores the fusion of fashion, sustainability, and scientific innovation, highlighting the journey of creating mylo, a sustainable alternative to leather. Major brands like Lulu Lemon, Adidas, and Stella McCartney are endorsing mylo, signaling a pivotal moment in the adoption of sustainable materials in the fashion industry.

Isha Datar discusses the concept of cellular agriculture, offering a glimpse into a world where meat can be produced without harming animals. She explores the process of cell-cultured meat production, highlighting its environmental benefits and potential to revolutionize the food system.

Global strategist Parag Khanna discusses the future of humanity, predicting nomadic living, climate disruptions, and the challenge of where eight billion people will live. Topics include demographic imbalances, changing values on having children, mobility as a human right, and successful integration strategies for migrants.