In the fourth episode of TechnologIST Talks, host Steve Kelly sits down with Banyu Carbon co-founder and CEO Dr. Alex Gagnon to explore the emerging field of carbon dioxide removal and its role in decarbonizing the economy. Banyu Carbon uses a process that relies on sunlight and seawater to remove carbon dioxide from water. 

An associate professor at the University of Washington School of Oceanography, Alex takes a deep dive into innovative solutions and the ecosystem required to combat climate change. Drawing lessons from cleantech 1.0, he emphasizes planning for future global competition, highlighting the role of federal initiatives in fostering innovation, and supporting commercialization. 

How can the U.S. prevent repeating the mistakes of cleantech 1.0 in the carbon dioxide removal industry? What steps should universities take to support commercialization while maintaining their commitment to research? And what role should government and private industry play in sustaining demand for cleantech solutions? 

Join us for this and more on this episode of TechnologIST Talks. 

Learn more about IST: https://securityandtechnology.org/

00:00 Introduction to Technologist Talks

01:15 Meet Dr. Alex Gagnon of Banyu Carbon

01:26 Innovative Carbon Removal Techniques

01:45 Challenges and Opportunities in Clean Energy

02:33 The Importance of Retaining Tech Talent

03:58 The Evolution of Cleantech

05:29 Banyu Carbon's Mission and Vision

18:20 The Role of Government and Venture Capital

44:29 Future Outlook for U.S. Clean Energy

47:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts