How did Rachel Posner Ross, the Former Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer for the U.S. Department of Defense, help transform the largest energy consumer in the nation into a leader in sustainability?

Host Keith Zakheim has a compelling conversation (at the Pentagon!) with Rachel Posner Ross, the Former Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer at the Department of Defense. Rachel explains the crucial balance between energy management and national security. You’ll hear about the  Department's ambitious increase in climate and energy investments from $600 million in 2022 to $4.5 billion in 2024, driven by visionary leadership and dedicated public service. Rachel also outlines the strategies for achieving 100% carbon pollution-free electricity by 2030, addressing the challenges of reforming traditional electricity procurement methods. This episode offers listeners a profound understanding of the intersection between environmental stewardship and national security, making it an essential listen for those interested in sustainable defense initiatives.

Rachel Posner Ross: As a member of the Senior Executive Service, Ms. Ross worked with leadership across DoD, other government institutions, and external organizations to advance DoD’s climate and sustainability objectives. Prior to this appointment, she served as Chief of Staff to the 25th Secretary of the Army, where she provided oversight and guidance to the Army’s large and diverse staff and coordinated with the Army’s senior leaders to ensure timely execution of the Secretary’s priorities and statutory responsibilities.

In This Episode: 

(00:00) Introduction of Rachel Posner Ross, Former Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer

(03:44) Rachel’s path to her former position, living and working in Myanmar, joining Allotrope Partners

(09:15) DoD - the single largest energy consumer - and its challenging scale of consumption, following national defense strategy guidelines

(14:04) Biggest challenges, proudest moments

(16:47) Find out more, where to connect with Rachel

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About the show: 

The Age of Adoption podcast explores the monumental transition from a period of climate tech research and innovation – an Age of Innovation – to today's world in which companies across the economy are furiously adopting climate solutions - the Age of Adoption. Listen as our host, Keith Zakheim, CEO of Antenna Group, talks with experts from across the climate, energy, health, and real estate sectors to discuss what the transition means for business and society, and how corporates and startups can rise above competitors to lead in this new age. Access more curated content on the subject by visiting, www.ageofadoption.com.

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Resources:

Rachel Posner Ross LinkedIn
Rachel Posner Ross Bio
DoD Website
Antenna Group
Age of Adoption Website
Keith Zakheim LinkedIn