Could the world actually run on clean energy? Or is that just a nice idea?
In this episode of the Off the Leash Podcast, we sit down with atmospheric scientist Scott Denning (visiting professor at Yale) to break down what carbon is really doing to our planet, and what's truly standing in the way of a renewable energy future.
Scott has spent his career tracking CO2 from fossil fuels across the globe. In this conversation, he explains:
What climate change actually is (without the politics) What global warming is doing to the earth now What global warming will cause in the future Whether a clean-energy transition is possible China's rapid growth in the renewable energy space The geopolitical landscape that's holding us back How WE can help protect the planet before it's too lateIf you've ever been curious about the climate problem beyond politics, this episode is for you.
(00:00) Introduction and Career Overview
(04:19) Understanding Climate Change
(05:14) The Science Behind Climate Change
(13:04) Global Warming and Its Effects
(21:34) Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
(31:54) Challenges of Long-Distance Electricity Transmission
(33:25) China's HVDC Lines and Renewable Energy Expansion
(34:16) Cost and Feasibility of Clean Energy Transition
(36:57) Historical Infrastructure Overhauls and Modern Comparisons
(38:46) Water Usage in Various Energy Sources
(40:15) Downsides and Geopolitical Impacts of Clean Energy
(47:12) Global Examples of Clean Energy Initiatives
(49:43) Individual Actions for a Cleaner Future
(59:16) Reflections on a Career in Climate Research
Thank you to Skinletics for sponsoring this episode. Check them out here: https://www.skinletics.com/
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