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Hi everyone, Tom Raftery here, and welcome back to another episode of the Climate Confident podcast. This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dana R. Fisher, director of the Centre for Environment, Community, and Equity at American University and author of the new book, Saving Ourselves - From Climate Shocks to Climate Action.

Dana brings 25 years of research on climate policymaking and activism to our conversation, providing valuable insights into the current state of the climate crisis. We delved into the evolution of climate policy, from the early days of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to the latest efforts like the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States. Dana offers a candid assessment of these policies, highlighting both successes and significant gaps.

A major theme of our discussion is the crucial role of activism. Dana underscores that meaningful change often requires grassroots movements to hold policymakers accountable. We explored various forms of climate activism, from local community actions to more radical tactics like civil disobedience. Interestingly, Dana's research suggests that even controversial actions, such as throwing soup at paintings or blocking traffic, can effectively draw media attention and pressure policymakers when part of a broader strategy.

We also touched on the importance of building community resilience. As climate shocks become more frequent and severe, Dana emphasises that local communities must prepare to support each other in times of crisis. This involves not only physical infrastructure but also fostering social cohesion.

Towards the end of our conversation, Dana offers practical advice for anyone looking to get involved in climate activism, stressing the need for solidarity across movements and the potential impact of nonviolent resistance. We also discussed the upcoming COP 29 climate negotiations and the controversial involvement of a fossil fuel executive in leading these talks.

I hope you find this episode as insightful and thought-provoking as I did. 

Thanks for listening, and stay climate confident!

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

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If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this thought-provoking episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I'm joined by Ditte Lysgaard Vind, Chair of the Danish Design Council and author of the book Danish Design Heritage and Global Sustainability. Ditte sheds light on how Danish design heritage influences global sustainability and the crucial role of living within planetary boundaries.

Ditte emphasises the importance of "planetary boundaries" which include crucial limits like climate change and biodiversity. She argues that adhering to these boundaries isn't just about conservation but is essential for thriving within our means. We delve into the practicalities of Danish design, known for marrying functionality with aesthetic appeal, and discuss how these principles can inspire sustainable practices globally.

We also explore the transformation needed in business models, highlighting "product as a service" as a sustainable alternative that promotes long-term quality over short-lived consumerism. Ditte points out that significant systemic change is necessary and discusses the potential of bio-based materials as sustainable alternatives in various industries.

For anyone interested in how design can lead to more sustainable business practices and a healthier planet, this episode is a must-listen. Dive into the full conversation to discover how you can incorporate these sustainable principles into your daily life and business strategy.

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

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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Welcome to another episode of the Climate Confident podcast. Today, we're joined by Emily Easley, the founder of Novus Energy Advisors, a firm that has been guiding companies through the energy sector's dynamic landscape for over a decade. In our discussion, Emily sheds light on the shifting paradigms within the energy industry, particularly focusing on the role of renewable energies and technological innovations such as energy storage solutions.

Emily elaborates on the practical challenges and opportunities presented by policies like the Inflation Reduction Act. She explains how these policies are driving investment and innovation, particularly in U.S. manufacturing, and how they impact the energy sector's approach to sustainability and carbon footprint management. The conversation also touches upon the complexities of regulatory environments and the importance of adapting business strategies to stay ahead in a transitioning market.

Moreover, we delve into the future of energy storage technologies and their potential to revolutionise energy consumption patterns. Emily provides insights into how emerging technologies are not just supporting but accelerating the shift towards a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Whether you're an industry professional, an environmental enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of energy, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating the evolving energy landscape. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how current trends and technologies are shaping the future of energy.

For more insights and discussions with leading experts in the field, remember to subscribe to our podcast and visit our website. Connect with us on social media to continue the conversation and stay updated with the latest episodes.

Don't forget to check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/z39-dmboTXc

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this week’s episode, I had the privilege of talking to Julia Salant from EcoVadis, where we tackled the increasingly essential role of technology in scaling up sustainable practices within supply chains. Julia elucidated EcoVadis' digital solutions, designed to assess and improve the sustainability performance of their vast network of companies.

We dived into the specifics of their three main offerings: the Sustainability Business Rating solution, the iQ Plus tool for regulatory risk scanning, and the Carbon Action Manager for suppliers’ climate action. Julia highlighted the simplicity of sharing sustainability and carbon scorecards within their network, a system that empowers companies to meet growing regulatory demands efficiently.

We also grappled with the trajectory of emissions reporting and the shift from voluntary to mandatory regulations, including the potential future need for audited scope three emissions. Julia presented a candid perspective on the catalysts for genuine change, emphasising the power of investor demands and the buyer-supplier relationship over regulatory measures.

An insightful segment of our chat focused on strategies for engaging suppliers in sustainability reporting and how established customer-supplier dynamics foster commitment to decarbonisation. Julia shared success stories, underscoring the practical steps companies can take to initiate or advance their sustainability journeys.

Tune in for a thorough dissection of the sustainability challenges faced by businesses today and how technology, coupled with targeted strategies, can enhance our collective effort to mitigate climate change.

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

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Daniel Lawse, co-founder and Chief Century Thinker at Verdis Group. Our conversation ventured deep into the realms of sustainability and climate consultancy, focusing on how transformational change can be accelerated in organisations and communities.

Daniel shared fascinating insights into the evolution of emissions scopes, especially the rising importance of scope three emissions. He explained how Verdis Group assists businesses in navigating these complex areas through strategic planning and implementation, using a dynamic approach to adapt to continual changes in the environmental landscape.

We also discussed the unique roles of zoos and aquariums in conservation and the broad implications of their sustainability efforts. Daniel emphasised the importance of interconnected thinking and how short, simple feedback loops, modelled on natural systems, can enhance sustainability practices.

For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of sustainable business practices and the operational shifts necessary for a regenerative future, this episode is a must-listen. Dive into our detailed exploration of how businesses can effectively measure and manage their impact on the climate.

For more on Daniel's work, or to engage further with these topics, visit Verdis Group's website or set up a conversation with Daniel through their contact page.

The book Daniel referenced, Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet, is available on Amazon here.

Join us next time on Climate Confident as we continue to explore actionable insights and strategies for a sustainable future, and check out the video version of this episode on YouTube.

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In what has to be one of the most original episodes of the Climate Confident podcast, I delve into the world of Toco, an innovative currency that's setting a new precedent in the fight against climate change. Join me as I talk with Joe Pretorius and Paul Rowett, who share their vision of a currency that not only serves as a medium of exchange but also as a tool for environmental action. Backed by The Carbon Reserve, Toco represents a bold step towards marrying financial transactions with carbon reduction efforts.

Joe and Paul recount their journey from conceptualising Toco to its pilot success in Stellenbosch, and their upcoming expansion into Europe. They highlight how Toco enables individuals and corporations to contribute to climate action in a tangible way. Moreover, they introduce the Carbon is Money organisation, a pivotal force in advocating for the recognition of carbon reduction as a valuable economic activity, crucial for Toco's mission and broader acceptance.

For those fascinated by how innovation can bridge sustainability with everyday financial practices, this discussion sheds light on Toco's potential impact. Learn about the synergy between The Carbon Reserve, the Carbon is Money organisation, and how Toco is poised to revolutionise our approach to economic activity and environmental stewardship.

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

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this insightful episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Grant Gibson, Chief Development Officer at Synthica Energy. Synthica is at the forefront of transforming industrial by-products, specifically from the food and beverage sector, into renewable natural gas through anaerobic digestion. Grant shared the intriguing journey of Synthica, from its early days founded on a shared passion for the environment and sustainable solutions, to its current status as a key player in the renewable energy market.

We delved into the nitty-gritty of anaerobic digestion, exploring how Synthica's approach not only provides a sustainable alternative to conventional natural gas but also significantly reduces carbon emissions. Grant highlighted the challenges and complexities of setting up such facilities, including zoning, utility negotiations, and the intricacies of managing waste streams.

One of the standout aspects of our conversation was the emphasis on the circular economy. Grant elaborated on how Synthica creates a closed loop of energy production, transforming waste into valuable resources, thus contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy landscape.

Furthermore, we touched on the importance of community engagement and education. Synthica is not just about converting waste to energy; it's also about inspiring the next generation and showing them the possibilities within the green energy sector.

Don't miss this episode if you're interested in the intersections of sustainability, technology, and business. Grant's insights provide a fascinating look at the potential of anaerobic digestion to change how we think about waste and energy.

For more details about Synthica and their pioneering work, visit their website at www.synthica.com. Join us in exploring innovative solutions that are not just good for business but are also vital for our planet's future.

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this enlightening episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I, Tom Raftery, have the privilege of hosting Laird Christensen, the Graduate Director of two pivotal graduate programmes at Prescott College, focusing on Resilience, Sustainable Communities, and Environmental Studies. Laird shares his journey from environmental activism to fostering future leaders equipped to tackle the nuanced challenges of climate change through community engagement and sustainable practices.

Laird's insights shed light on the significant, yet often overlooked, intersection of climate activism with mental health and community resilience. He emphasises the necessity of local and personal actions amidst global environmental crises, underlining the power of grassroots movements and the importance of adapting our daily lives to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Furthermore, Laird touches on the critical role of emotional resilience for activists, introducing the concept of 'Active Hope' and the therapeutic potential of communal support in navigating the psychological toll of climate anxiety.

Our discussion also ventures into the realm of effective communication and political engagement, exploring how these can be leveraged to foster more inclusive and sustainable communities.

Join us as we unpack the layers of climate action beyond the technical solutions, highlighting the transformative potential of empathy, local initiatives, and personal accountability in crafting a more sustainable future.

Your feedback and thoughts are always welcome, so please don't hesitate to reach out via social media or email. Together, let's continue to explore and advocate for actionable solutions to climate change.

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

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In today's thought-provoking episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Thomas Kiessling, the CTO of Siemens' Smart Infrastructure Division. Our conversation delved deep into Siemens' commitment to sustainability and its strategic approach towards achieving net zero emissions by 2030. Thomas shared insights into the holistic strategies Siemens is employing, from robust eco-designs of products to the transformative role of smart infrastructure and AI in enhancing energy efficiency across commercial and industrial sectors.

We also explored the innovative concept of grid-connected buildings, which not only exemplifies Siemens' forward-thinking in managing energy demand but also underscores the potential of such technologies in bolstering the integration of renewable energy sources. Thomas's examples illuminated the practical steps Siemens is taking towards decarbonisation, including the push towards electrification of vehicle fleets and the application of digital twins in factory operations to streamline and accelerate the deployment of decarbonised solutions.

Importantly, Thomas addressed the broader implications of these strategies, touching upon the critical role of individual actions and the collective impact we can achieve through conscious decisions, from selecting electric vehicles to advocating for low-carbon options in our daily lives.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding the intersection of technology, sustainability, and the path to a decarbonised future. Join us as we navigate the complexities and the concrete measures being implemented by one of the world's leading technology companies in the fight against climate change.

Don't forget to also check out the Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2023 report that Thomas referenced.

Remember, change starts with awareness, and every small action counts towards a more sustainable planet.

Check out also the video version of this episode on

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this thought-provoking episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Aidan Charron, the Director of End Plastic Initiatives at EarthDay.org. Aidan shared insightful perspectives on the challenges and solutions surrounding plastic pollution, a matter that's increasingly becoming a global concern.

We delved into the origins and mission of EarthDay.org, highlighting its impactful journey from its inception in 1970 to becoming a leading voice in environmental activism. Our discussion ventured into the depths of plastic's pervasiveness in our daily lives, underlining the significant health risks and environmental detriments it poses. Aidan elaborated on the startling statistics and research findings that reveal the severity of microplastics' infiltration into our ecosystems and our bodies, illuminating the urgent need for change.

A pivotal part of our conversation centred around the strategies to combat plastic pollution, including policy advocacy, public awareness, and the push for international collaboration through initiatives like the global plastics treaty. Aidan's expertise shed light on the complexity of this issue, offering hope through actionable insights and underscoring the power of collective action.

As we navigate these discussions, it's clear that confronting plastic pollution requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing regulatory reform, innovative alternatives, and a shift in public consciousness. Join us in exploring the path towards a more sustainable and plastic-free future, and discover how you can contribute to this crucial cause.

For more insights and to get involved, visit EarthDay.org, and let's embark on this journey together towards making a tangible impact.

And don't forget to check out and subscribe to the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/2YuF58_DBlo

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

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Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

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In this special episode of the Climate Confident podcast, generously sponsored by Siemens, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rahul Chillar, the head of Building X at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. Rahul, with his impressive track record of 55 patents and over two decades in the building industry, shared invaluable insights into how buildings can be the linchpin in our quest for a more sustainable future.

We delved into the findings of Siemens' Infrastructure Transition Monitor Report, which underscores the crucial role buildings play in global energy consumption and sustainability efforts. With buildings accounting for a staggering 40% of the world's energy use, Rahul's discussion on the transformative power of digitalisation in making buildings more efficient, sustainable, and, crucially, more profitable, couldn't be timelier.

Rahul illuminated the path forward with Siemens' Building X, emphasising its capacity to foster sustainable, autonomous, and profitable building operations. His pragmatic approach to the adoption of smart solutions, amidst budget constraints and regulatory landscapes, was particularly enlightening.

Join us as we explore the critical intersection of sustainability and technology in the built environment and uncover how Siemens is paving the way for a future where buildings not only contribute positively to our planet but also enhance our quality of life.

For those intrigued by the prospect of transforming our living spaces for the better, this episode is a must-listen. Your thoughts and insights are always welcome, so do reach out on LinkedIn or explore more on Siemens Building X. Here's to changing the way we live, one building at a time.

Don't forget to check out the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/IbgJHe2ieeI

Support the Show.

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

• Lorcan Sheehan
• Hal Good
• Jerry Sweeney
• Andreas Werner
• Devaang Bhatt
• Stephen Carroll
• Marcel Roquette
• Roger Arnold

And remember you too can Support 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.

Contact
If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn.

If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show.

Credits
Music credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper