The Climatalist

Could climate tech be the next industry to boom? Anton chats with Martijn Wilder AM, CEO of Pollination Group, an investment advisory group focussed on companies in the climate sector to discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise from backing businesses in this industry. If you’re curious about how smart investments can drive both environmental impact and financial success, this episode is a must-watch.

Anton chats with David Ritter, CEO of Greenpeace Australia Pacific, about the business of helping run one of the world’s largest activist organisations. David discusses how approaching conflict with connection and positive pressure can drive meaningful environmental change, highlighting Greenpeace’s successes in Australia through peaceful protest and corporate engagement. It’s a thought-provoking conversation on the power of strategic activism in shaping a sustainable future.

Pledge for the Planet is an environmental charity that uses sport and activity challenges as catalysts for change, empowering people to turn personal pledges into powerful community action. This week, Anton chats with Pledge for the Planet founder, Alice Kendall. They discuss how businesses, local sports clubs, and communities can inspire collective climate action through her app and the importance individual impact has in battling the climate crisis, showing that small, everyday actions can drive significant environmental change. 🏃‍♀️🌱

Anton chats with Alan Hunter, the CEO of NRN to discuss their innovative approach to making renewable energy accessible by offering free solar and battery installations to homes, revolutionising the traditional energy model. He also shares his thoughts on the challenges of solar energy, particularly the unpredictability of supply and the risks of negative energy costs. Alan emphasises the importance of effective energy storage and strategic partnerships to ensure the viability and profitability of solar power.

In this episode, Creel Price, co-founder of Investible, delves into the evolution of his entrepreneurial journey and the creation of Greenhouse, a co-working hub for climate tech innovation. Creel and Anton explore the critical role of entrepreneurship in turning scientific breakthroughs into commercial successes, emphasising the importance of strategic funding. They also discuss “green premiums”—the added costs of adopting green technologies—and how these premiums, while initially challenging, can become a competitive advantage as consumers increasingly value sustainability. Tune in to hear how Creel is driving the future of startups and climate tech in Australia.

Anton delves into the world of green steel, global carbon pricing, and the opportunities for Australian businesses with Tim Buckley, CEO of Climate Energy Finance. Discover how China’s dominance in green technologies is reshaping global trade and creating a potential $250 billion export market for Australia. Tim unpacks the complex world of Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAMs) and explores how Australian businesses can lead the charge in embodying decarbonisation for a profitable and sustainable future.

Anton sits down with Dominic Spooner, CEO of Vaulta, a Brisbane-based battery tech startup. Discover how Dominic's journey from industrial design to leading a company is driving innovation in sustainable battery technology. Learn about Vaulta's modular, durable, and recyclable batteries and the vision behind making a significant impact in the renewable energy sector.

Anton interviews Paul Christie, CEO of Walk Japan, a company renowned for its immersive small group walking tours that delve into the heart of rural Japan. With a deep connection to the local communities, Paul’s mission is not only to offer travellers an authentic experience of Japan but also to sustain and revitalise the remote areas his tours visit. Paul is committed to giving back, supporting local economies, and preserving the culture of these regions—all while running a thriving tourism business.

In this week's episode, Anton chats to Mithra Cox, Greens Councillor for Wollongong, about the intersection of climate and politics. She delves into some of the successes she's had in implementing positive environmental change for her community and also goes deep on the culture of misinformation plaguing politics and social media.

Welcome to The Climatalist! In our debut episode, Anton sits down with Andrew Grant, Chair of Tasman Environmental Markets (TEM), to talk all things carbon markets. They demystify carbon offset schemes, discuss the ever-changing value of the market, and ponder the role businesses should be taking in the fight against climate change.