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In this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I’m joined by Michael Sheldrick, co-founder of Global Citizen. Michael shares his journey from grassroots activism in Australia to spearheading a global movement that champions systemic solutions to poverty and climate change. His approach as a policy entrepreneur, prioritising actionable and strategic advocacy, underscores the episode's core message: significant, lasting change requires more than just temporary fixes.

We delve into the mechanics behind Global Citizen's success in mobilising millions for change, focusing on the importance of setting clear, measurable goals and engaging with policymakers in a meaningful way. Michael also discusses his new book, "From Ideas to Impact," offering insights into influencing and implementing policy in a divided world. This book acts as a playbook for those looking to make a difference beyond just awareness, providing practical steps towards achieving impactful policy changes.

Towards the end, Michael directs listeners to further resources and ways to engage with the issues discussed.

Michael's Links:
Website: www.michaelsheldrick.com
Substack: michaelsheldrick.substack.com
Twitter: @micksheldrick
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sheldrick-30364051
Instagram: @micksheldrick

This episode is a fascinating exploration into how targeted, informed action can drive the policy changes necessary to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues. It’s a call to listeners to think strategically about advocacy and the role of policy entrepreneurship in achieving global improvements.

Don't forget to check out the video version of this episode on YouTube.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

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In this week's episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the pleasure of conversing with Matthew Boulton, Director of Solar, Storage and Private Wire at EDF Renewables UK and Ireland. We delved into renewable energy innovation, spotlighting the  projects EDF Renewables is spearheading across the UK. From the groundbreaking Oxford Project to the ambitious Longfield Solar and Battery initiative, Matthew shed light on how these ventures are pivotal in propelling the UK towards its net-zero targets.

We explored the intricate mechanics behind connecting renewable energy sources directly to the transmission network, a leap forward in enhancing Oxford's journey to net-zero. The discussion further ventured into the Longfield project's unique position in the UK's renewable landscape, highlighting its potential to significantly contribute to the nation's green energy supply.

Matthew's insights into the replication potential of these models across other cities and sectors, including data centres and electric vehicle charging, were particularly thought-provoking. Moreover, addressing public concerns, from visual impact to food security, Matthew provided compelling arguments on how renewable projects can harmonise with local environments and communities.

As we confront the pressing timeline towards net-zero, the innovations and strategic approaches discussed in this episode underscore the urgency and feasibility of scaling up renewable energy solutions.

Join us for this episode of Climate Confident as we delve into the future of renewables with EDF Renewables UK, illuminating the path to a sustainable, low-carbon future. And don't forget to check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/dgNkGm_RacY

Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on how we can collectively accelerate the transition to renewable energy. Your engagement is crucial in driving forward the conversation on sustainability and climate action.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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In the latest episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Davide Ceper, CEO of Varda. We delved deep into the innovative solutions Varda is bringing to the agriculture sector. Here’s a quick overview of our enlightening discussion:

Davide shed light on Varda's pivotal projects - Field ID and SoilHive. Field ID is a groundbreaking approach to standardising agricultural field identification, making data sharing more efficient and enhancing transparency in the farming sector. On the other hand, SoilHive aims to revolutionise soil health data accessibility, focusing on aiding farmers in adopting sustainable practices.

We also explored the significant environmental impact of agriculture, contributing to a considerable portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Davide emphasised the need for collaborative efforts in data sharing and transparency to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Furthermore, we discussed the implications of COP 28 on agriculture, where Davide highlighted the sector's newfound recognition in global environmental discussions and the need for actionable, long-term strategies.

Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation, which is not only a deep dive into agricultural tech but also a look at the broader implications for environmental sustainability. Tune in for an episode that's as informative as it is thought-provoking!

For more updates and insights, check out Varda’s innovative tools at fieldid.varda.ag and app.soilhive.ag.

Keep listening, keep learning, and let's stay climate confident! And don't forget to check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/jQp66zP_bBM

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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In this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the privilege of conversing with Tim Weiss, CEO of Optera, delving into the world of corporate carbon footprint management. Tim's journey, rooted in environmental policy and economics, has led him to spearhead initiatives in renewable energy in Southern Africa and the Navajo Nation.

Our discussion centred on Optera's innovative approach to helping organisations understand and reduce their carbon emissions. Tim emphasised the significance of engaging with supply chains, a crucial aspect often overlooked in carbon footprint management. He illustrated how Optera's data-driven methods enable companies to delve beyond surface-level measures, like solar panels, to truly scrutinise their product manufacturing, distribution, and usage impacts.

One of the most striking insights from Tim was the need for collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. He underscored the importance of forming strategic partnerships with suppliers, moving beyond mere compliance towards collective action for decarbonisation. This cooperative approach is not just beneficial for the environment but also integral for business resilience in a rapidly evolving low-carbon economy.

Tim's optimistic yet realistic vision for the future of corporate sustainability was another highlight. He predicts an era where greenwashing becomes challenging, and corporate emission reporting is sophisticated, driving rapid decarbonisation and aligning with long-term business strategies.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of corporate strategy and sustainability. It’s a deep dive into the complexities and opportunities that lie in the path to a low-carbon future.

Don't forget to check out the video version of this podcast on YouTube, and let's continue to drive meaningful change in our global fight against climate change.

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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In today's episode of Climate Confident, I hosted Chris Larsen from DynaPower, a beacon of the clean energy movement. Chris unravelled the fascinating world of power electronics, spotlighting DynaPower's role in seamlessly integrating large-scale renewable energy projects with the grid.

Delving deeper, we discussed the monumental Inflation Reduction Act's influence on clean energy deployment, a game-changer that's fuelling investor confidence and project viability across the US.

A highlight was exploring the burgeoning realm of green hydrogen. Despite the scepticism, Chris presented a compelling case for its potential, particularly in industrial applications. We were privy to ground-breaking projects like Utah's green hydrogen plant, which promises a revolution in energy storage and a greener future.

Chris's passion shone through as he spoke of the cultural dynamism at DynaPower, a place where innovation is not just embraced but celebrated. His insights were a testament to the power of consumer demand in driving sustainable practices up the supply chain.

Tune in for a session rich in expertise and brimming with optimism for a sustainable future, powered by the unsung heroes of the energy industry.

Don't forget to check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/5NSKQJw0HD0

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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In the latest episode of Climate Confident, I have an insightful conversation with Taco Engelaar, Senior Vice President at Neara, about the critical role of digitalisation in the energy sector. Taco highlights how Neara's software creates digital twins of electricity grids, allowing for more efficient management and capacity analysis.

We delve into the complexities of expanding grid infrastructure to support the increasing influx of renewable energy sources. Taco offers a detailed analysis of how digital modelling can enhance existing grid capabilities, potentially doubling capacity without the need for physical expansion—a significant step towards meeting our net-zero targets.

The discussion also covers the potential of interconnected and smart grids to improve energy distribution and address the intermittency challenges of renewable sources. Taco shares practical examples of how Neara's technology is being used to predict and manage grid performance under various environmental stressors, such as storms and floods.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between technology and sustainability, and how strategic digitalisation within the grid infrastructure is pivotal to achieving a resilient and sustainable energy future.

And don't forget to check out the video version of this episode on YouTube

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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As we kick off a new year (Happy New Year everyone), I wanted to take a few minutes to say thanks to everyone, mention some of last year's highlights, and look ahead to the year to come.

Support the show

Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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Hello, Climate Confident listeners! In this episode, we delve deep into the shoe industry's environmental footprint with the insightful Diana Yanes, a seasoned expert with a passion for sustainable innovation.

Diana brings to light a staggering reality – almost 24 billion pairs of shoes produced annually, with a whopping 90% ending up in landfills within their first year. This contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, a fact that calls for urgent attention and action.

In our conversation, Diana elucidates the multifaceted challenges of shoe manufacturing, from the extensive use of diverse materials to the complexities of biodegradation. She brilliantly navigates us through the nuances of materials like leather and their impacts, underscoring the need for a shift in our perception of beauty and functionality in footwear.

What stood out in our dialogue was Diana's emphasis on small, yet impactful changes. She champions the idea of capsule collections as a step towards sustainability, demonstrating how replacing current materials with more eco-friendly options can make a considerable difference.

This episode isn't just about the problems but also about viable solutions and the role of consumer awareness. Diana urges us to be more inquisitive and responsible, reminding us that our choices as consumers have far-reaching consequences.

To learn more about Diana's work and her approach to sustainable shoe manufacturing, tune in to this enlightening episode. It's a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding the intricate balance between fashion, functionality, and environmental stewardship in the shoe industry.

Until next time, keep striving for a more sustainable future and remember, every step counts!

And don't forget to check out the video version of this episode on YouTube.

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

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 In this Climate Confident episode I had the honour of hosting Sabine Erlinghagen, Global CEO of Siemens Grid Software to dive deep into our modern energy transition.

In this special edition, sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure, we peeled back the layers of the Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2023 report. Sabine shed light on the urgent need for upgrading grid infrastructure to support the ballooning demand for renewable energy, and to help us transition away from fossil fuels as agreed at COP 28 earlier today. This will require a monumental effort to double grid capacity in the next seven to twelve years! This conversation highlighted that grids are a bottleneck in our journey towards net zero.

We also talked about the critical role of data in grid operations. It's fascinating how the traditional, data-sparse approach to managing distribution grids is undergoing a transformative change. The power of smart meters and AI in managing this complexity cannot be overstated. 

But it's not all challenges and hurdles; there's a note of optimism too. We delved into the potential of small, independent decisions in driving a faster adoption of renewables. It's about empowering everyone to be part of this transition.

I urge you all to listen to this episode. It’s packed with insights that are crucial for anyone keen on understanding the nuances of our energy future. And, as always, I look forward to your thoughts and feedback. Let's keep the conversation going!

For a deeper dive on this important topic, check out the Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2023 report.

The video version of this episode is at https://youtu.be/s5jtaOXpvMY

Until next time, stay climate confident!

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

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Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident

Get in touch - leave me a message

In today's episode of the Climate Confident podcast, chatting with Caroline Chalmer, CEO of Finematter, a platform transforming the jewellery industry.

Caroline brings a unique perspective to the table, sharing her journey from the fashion world to championing sustainability in jewellery. Finematter isn't just a brand; it's a mission to revolutionise how we perceive and interact with jewellery. With their circular economy model, they're setting a new standard – focusing on made-to-order pieces, repairs, remodelling, and importantly, recycling.

We explore the challenges of making an industry known for its lavishness more sustainable. Caroline's insights on circularity - reducing production waste, repairing to extend product life, and recycling existing materials - are a blueprint for other industries.

One of the most striking points was the significant CO2 emissions from gold mining, underscoring the importance of recycling in reducing environmental impact. Caroline's discussion on the tangible and emotional value of jewellery, and how recycling can be a meaningful process rather than a transactional one, was particularly thought-provoking.

We also touched on how Finematter is changing perceptions about recycling gold, traditionally viewed as a desperate measure. Caroline highlights how their model allows customers to repurpose their assets, retaining emotional value while contributing to a more sustainable practice.

Lastly, Caroline's vision for the future is inspiring. With plans to expand globally and make circularity in jewellery commonplace, she's paving the way for a more sustainable and conscious consumer world.

DOn't forget to check ut the video version on YouTube, and remember to stay Climate Confident!

Sign up to Climate Confident+ for deep dive analysis of the major climate and energy stories of the day.

Support the show

Podcast subscribers
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing subscribers:

• Anita Krajnc
• Cecilia Skarupa
• Ben Gross
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Stephen Carroll
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Subscribe to the Podcast  - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one, as well as give you access to the entire back catalog of Climate Confident episodes.

🎤 Looking for a keynote speaker on climate, energy, AI, or sustainability?

I help executive audiences understand the technologies, trends, and decisions shaping the low-carbon transition. 

Download my Speaker Pack: https://tinyurl.com/spkrpck

And a quick note before you go: I’ve started a new Reddit community for serious, evidence-led discussion on climate solutions, clean energy, decarbonisation, policy, technology, and what actually works in practice. 

If you’d like to suggest future guests, challenge ideas from the show, or share climate reports and solutions worth discussing, join us at r/ClimateConfident