Speed & Scale

Nan Ransohoff is the Head of Climate at Stripe, pioneering efforts in carbon removal markets, including the ambitious Frontier initiative. In this engaging discussion, she breaks down the urgent need for gigatons of carbon removal to tackle climate challenges. Nan explores cutting-edge technologies like direct air capture and shares how corporate investments can drive innovation. She also discusses Stripe's commitment to enabling businesses to fund carbon removal easily, emphasizing the crucial role of government policy in scaling these efforts.

How much time do you spend commuting to and from work in your car? And do you drive alone? In the US, the transportation sector emits more carbon pollution than any other sector—but in 1991, Washington State decided to take matters into their own hands. In this episode, Ryan and Anjali talk to Brian Lagerberg, who worked on the state’s commuter trip reduction plan: a policy that required employers to provide their employees with alternative ways to get to work. Together, they unpack the factors that led to the plan’s success and discuss how other cities and states can promote the same practices that make Washington the carpool state, and the kind of model that others can follow. 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.

Ten years ago, Indonesia’s forests were being decimated due to a big spike in palm oil production…until two Girl Scouts decided to get involved. Anjali and Ryan uncover the story behind Indonesia's dramatic reduction in deforestation. From grassroots activism to corporate boardrooms, this episode explores the delicate balance of pressuring companies, influencing governments, and empowering local communities to protect our forests. Discover how a blend of smart policies and market forces can create lasting change, and learn why the fight against deforestation is a global game of whack-a-mole we can't afford to lose.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.

In this insightful discussion, Amol Phadke, a clean energy scientist from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, sheds light on the UK's recent closure of its last coal plant and the urgent challenge of replacing natural gas. He proposes an innovative 'Airbnb for the grid' model, suggesting that repurposing existing power plant interconnections can drastically enhance transmission capacity. Amol highlights the potential to host nearly 1,000 GW of renewables, offering a cost-effective path toward decarbonization that could reshape energy strategies for the future.

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.

Shelley Welton, a law professor and energy policy expert, breaks down how electricity bills are structured, highlighting the confusion around charges and the influence of utilities on rates. Severin Borenstein, an economist, discusses the rising electric rates in California and the challenges posed by climate impacts. Kevin Miller shares insights on Maine's push for a nonprofit utility, Pine Tree Power, and the complexities that led to its referendum failure. Together, they explore the financial pressures on consumers and the future of energy affordability.

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.