Episodes

  • Unlocking Climate Solutions: The Role of Women and Nature's Rights
    May 29 2024

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    Welcome to this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast. I'm Tom Raftery, and today I'm joined by Osprey Orielle Lake, founder and executive director of the Women's Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN). Osprey shares her journey from early environmental activism in California's Redwood forests to leading WECAN, highlighting the crucial role of women in climate solutions.

    We delve into the significant impact of women's political empowerment on reducing carbon emissions and explore the Rights of Nature movement, which seeks to recognise ecosystems as legal entities with rights. Osprey also discusses the practical work of WECAN, such as reforestation projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which have successfully restored vast areas of degraded land and provided sustainable resources for local communities.

    Another key topic we discussed is the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, an initiative aimed at curbing fossil fuel production alongside existing climate agreements. Osprey underscores the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy and the need for stronger governmental action against fossil fuel interests.

    Tune in to hear about the intersection of gender equality, environmental justice, and innovative strategies for combating the climate crisis. Don't forget to visit WECAN International's website for more information on their impactful projects and initiatives.

    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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    36 mins
  • Carbon Neutral Farming: How Regenerative Agriculture Can Save Our Soil and Boost Profits
    May 22 2024

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    Welcome to another episode of the Climate Confident podcast. I’m Tom Raftery, and today, I'm delighted to be joined by Robin Saluoks, CEO and founder of eAgronom. Robin shares his insights on the crucial role of regenerative agriculture and how it can revolutionise farming.

    We delve into Robin’s unique background, growing up in Estonia on a family farm, and how this experience, combined with his expertise in computer science, led to the creation of eAgronom. We discuss the significance of sustainable farming practices, including cover cropping, zero cultivation, and agroforestry. These methods not only enhance soil health and biodiversity but also help in reducing carbon emissions.

    Robin explains the challenges farmers face in transitioning to regenerative practices and highlights the need for incentives and support from the food industry, banks, and governments. We explore how carbon income, better loan terms for sustainable practices, and public-private collaborations can accelerate this shift.

    Key takeaways include the importance of data collection and verification for effective carbon reporting and how sustainable farming can be profitable in the long run. Robin emphasises the potential of innovative practices to rebuild soil health, especially in regions vulnerable to climate change.

    For more insights on sustainable agriculture and how you can support this transformation, tune in to this enlightening episode. Connect with Robin on LinkedIn for further discussions.

    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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    34 mins
  • Saving Ourselves: Climate Action and Activism with Dana R. Fisher
    May 15 2024

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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!


    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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    39 mins
  • Sustainable by Design: Danish Strategies for a Thriving Planet
    May 8 2024

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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.

    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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    33 mins
  • Renewables and Regulation: A Deep Dive with Novus Energy Advisors
    May 1 2024

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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.

    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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    41 mins
  • Decarbonisation Dialogues: Navigating the EcoVadis Network for Climate Impact
    Apr 24 2024

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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.

    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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    41 mins
  • From Sustainability to Regeneration: Unpacking Climate Action with Verdis Group
    Apr 17 2024

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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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    43 mins
  • Toco: Bridging the Gap Between Finance and Sustainability
    Apr 10 2024

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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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    1 hr and 5 mins