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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I spoke with Ryan Schermerhorn, a US-based patent attorney who’s been helping clean tech innovators navigate the IP maze - until recently with the help of a now-suspended fast-track programme.
We discussed the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO) Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program, which allowed inventors of emissions-reducing technologies to get patents approved in months rather than years, at no cost. Ryan explained how it worked, why it was a big deal for clean tech startups, and how it quietly disappeared earlier this year following a political shift.
We also unpacked what this means for innovators now. Ryan shared practical alternatives - like using international patent offices with similar climate fast-track schemes and leveraging the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) to speed things up globally.
We also covered the balance between IP protection and open innovation, why patents still matter in the climate crisis, and how to protect ideas early without blowing the budget.
If you're working in climate tech, clean energy, or emissions monitoring and need to protect or scale your innovation, this episode is for you.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I sat down with John Sturman, Managing Director at NatPower UK, to dig deep into the realities of grid decarbonisation and energy transition at nation scale.
John pulled back the curtain on how NatPower is scaling up battery storage and renewable projects not just in the UK, but across the globe. From developing Europe’s largest battery storage pipeline to pioneering power solutions for maritime decarbonisation, this conversation gets into the detail of what's needed to hit net zero — and what’s holding us back.
We discussed:
Why the UK is currently one of the strongest global markets for battery storageThe urgent grid reform needed to meet the UK’s 2030 clean power targetsHow long-duration battery storage could replace gas peaker plants sooner than expectedThe overlooked challenge (and opportunity) of decarbonising the shipping industryWhy AI will be essential to balancing increasingly complex power gridsAnd why empowering communities is critical to speeding up the clean energy build-outJohn didn’t shy away from naming the bottlenecks — planning delays, outdated infrastructure, and regulatory barriers — but he also laid out practical fixes that could unlock faster deployment of clean power.
If you’re serious about understanding the mechanics behind the transition to a net zero grid, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Listen now and get climate confident.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I sat down with Faustine Delasalle, CEO of the Mission Possible Partnership (MPP), to delve into the real challenges, and opportunities, of decarbonising heavy industry and transport.
Faustine and I explored the current state of industrial decarbonisation, including the progress made over the last five to six years in proving that sectors like steel, cement, and shipping can transition to low-carbon alternatives. But as she points out, technical feasibility doesn’t always translate into financial viability. The sticking point? Making green industrial projects bankable.
We discussed the role of the so-called "green premium" (or dirty discount), why demand signals are crucial, and how the current lack of buyers at scale is stalling momentum. Faustine makes a strong case for the combination of policy mandates and targeted subsidies to unlock investment - drawing comparisons with the growth trajectories of solar and electric vehicles.
A key takeaway from our chat: the path to scaling green hydrogen could start with ammonia, which Faustine sees as the first domino in the next industrial revolution. We also looked at which regions are moving fastest, what’s holding others back, and why emerging economies might play a central role in the coming decade.
If you're in policymaking, finance, or industry, and serious about accelerating climate action, this is one to tune into.
Listen and follow Climate Confident wherever you get your podcasts.
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sandhya Sabapathy, Global Head of Environment and Net Zero at Entain, about the evolving role of sustainability in business – and what it truly takes to make climate action effective, strategic, and inclusive.
We discussed how sustainability has moved from the sidelines to the boardroom, driven not only by regulation but by clear commercial logic. Sandhya pointed to examples like IKEA – reducing emissions by 24% while growing revenue by 30% – as proof that climate strategy and profitability can go hand in hand.
We explored the growing influence of mandatory ESG reporting, the shift of climate accountability to audit committees, and how these trends are forcing businesses to be more transparent, not just more ambitious.
Sandhya also reflected on how to avoid burnout in purpose-driven work, why inclusivity leads to more resilient climate solutions, and the critical need to include marginalised voices in the climate conversation.
Listen in to hear why manufacturing might be further ahead on sustainability than you’d think, what we can learn from companies like Philip Morris (yes, really), and how even small actions can build corporate momentum for meaningful change.
Whether you’re leading a sustainability team, looking to influence from within, or just starting your climate journey – there’s something here for you.
🎧 Tune in now to learn, question, and push the dial forward.
#ClimateAction #SustainabilityLeadership #ESG #NetZero #CorporateSustainability #ClimateConfidentPodcast
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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Chris Doherty, CEO of Joulen, to discuss how data, AI, and battery storage are changing the way homes and businesses interact with renewable energy. With energy costs fluctuating and grid constraints becoming more of a challenge, the role of smart energy management has never been more important.
Chris explains how virtual power plants (VPPs) allow households and small businesses to collectively act as a large-scale power provider, reducing costs and generating income. We explore how AI-driven algorithms optimise energy use, ensuring that people buy low and sell high—maximising savings and revenue.
We also break down the regulatory barriers that prevent wider adoption of decentralised energy and discuss what governments can do to speed up the transition. From Germany’s success in residential battery storage to the UK’s evolving energy market, we look at how different countries are tackling these challenges.
Other key topics:
Why EVs with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology could replace home batteriesHow energy storage can help stabilise the grid and reduce investment in new infrastructureThe financial incentives needed to scale solar and battery adoption in homes and businessesThe growing role of demand-side management in balancing electricity supplyIf you’re wondering how to make the most of your renewable energy system—or how policy can unlock wider adoption—this episode has you covered.
📩 Get in touch: [email protected]
💡 Follow for more insights on the clean energy transition.Support the show
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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Jenny Morgan, author of Cancel Culture in Climate, to explore how public shaming and polarisation are holding back real progress on climate solutions.
We already have the tools and technologies needed to reduce emissions, yet fear of criticism—whether from activists, media, or the public—often paralyses businesses and leaders. Jenny explains how cancel culture leads to three major pitfalls:
Greenwashing – Overstating sustainability efforts to avoid backlash.Greenhushing – Staying silent about genuine climate initiatives to escape scrutiny.Green recanting – Companies reversing climate commitments due to heightened pressure.Rather than tearing down imperfect efforts, Jenny advocates for empathetic accountability—holding organisations to account while keeping the door open for progress. We discuss how companies like Patagonia and Allbirds have embraced transparency over perfection, and how social media can be both a force for good and a major obstacle to climate communication.
Key takeaways:
✔ Why fear of being “called out” prevents meaningful climate action.
✔ How businesses can regain trust after sustainability missteps.
✔ Practical strategies to foster productive climate conversations.Tune in to rethink how we approach climate accountability—and why working with people is more effective than working against them.
🔗 Listen now and subscribe in your favourite podcast app.
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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Puja Balachander, CEO and co-founder of UpGreen, to explore how commercial landlords and asset managers can accelerate energy efficiency retrofits while keeping costs down.
Buildings account for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions, yet many remain inefficient due to financial and logistical barriers. UpGreen tackles this by reducing upfront retrofit costs and enabling landlords to recapture savings from tenants, turning sustainability upgrades into a viable business strategy.
We discuss:
Why 87% of UK commercial buildings must undergo energy upgrades within the next five years to meet regulations.How UpGreen's model cuts retrofit costs by up to 80% while recovering 60% of expenses through tenant savings.The hidden inefficiencies preventing widespread adoption of energy retrofits, despite their cost-effectiveness.The challenges of scaling retrofits across different markets, from the UK’s public energy performance data to Germany’s fragmented regulations.The future of retrofits beyond energy efficiency, including climate adaptation measures for flood and heat resilience.This episode offers practical insights for commercial landlords, sustainability professionals, and policymakers looking to unlock the full potential of building decarbonisation.
🎧 Listen now and subscribe to Climate Confident to stay ahead of the latest sustainability trends.
🔗 Show links:
🌍 Learn more about UpGreen: getupgreen.com
📩 Contact me: [email protected]Support the show
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: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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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Dr. Jemma Green, Co-Founder and Chairman of PowerLedger, to explore how blockchain technology is reshaping the energy sector. We discuss the shift towards peer-to-peer energy trading, how utilities can adapt to a decentralised grid, and what role blockchain-backed renewable energy certificates can play in ensuring transparency and accountability.
Dr. Green explains why traditional feed-in tariff models are becoming unsustainable, how local energy autonomy can reduce grid congestion, and why distributed energy solutions are key to managing growing electricity demand. We also dive into the economics of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology and the impact of Europe’s Clean Energy Package on decentralised energy markets.
Takeaways from this episode:
Why utilities need to move beyond traditional energy supply modelsHow blockchain ensures trust and efficiency in energy tradingThe economic incentives driving distributed renewables adoptionWhat energy prosumers (like EV owners) can do to optimise costsWe also touch on India’s approach to energy decentralisation, regulatory hurdles slowing adoption in Europe, and how businesses can benefit from corporate renewable energy trading.
Tune in to understand how technology is driving the future of sustainable energy.
🔗 Listen now and subscribe!
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: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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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Annalisa Bracco, a physical oceanographer and climate scientist at the Georgia Institute of Technology, to explore how our oceans are changing—and why it matters.
The ocean is a critical carbon sink, absorbing vast amounts of CO₂, but it’s also warming at an alarming rate, driving more extreme weather events and disrupting marine ecosystems. Annalisa explains how rising sea temperatures are fuelling stronger hurricanes, shifting rainfall patterns, and devastating biodiversity—particularly in coral reefs, where we’ve already lost up to 75% in the Atlantic alone.
We also discuss the role of marine protected areas, the surprising impact of sea cucumbers on coral survival, and how AI and machine learning are helping scientists map oceanic ecosystems. Annalisa shares insights on potential solutions, including ocean-based carbon sequestration, enhanced weathering, and the challenge of safely storing CO₂ at depth.
Key takeaways from this episode:
✅ Warming oceans are intensifying weather patterns and reducing freshwater availability.
✅ Coral bleaching threatens food security for over a billion people.
✅ AI is revolutionising how we track biodiversity and predict climate impacts.
✅ Marine conservation efforts can rapidly restore ecosystems and improve fisheries.The health of our oceans is deeply intertwined with the future of our planet. Listen now to understand what’s at stake—and what we can do about it.
🎧 Tune in now on your favourite podcast platform!
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Jarand Rystad, CEO of Rystad Energy, to take a hard look at where we are in the global energy transition and whether we’re moving fast enough to meet climate targets.
We discuss:
How disruptive technologies are reshaping the energy landscape – and why the transition would happen even without climate concerns.Why solar, wind, and battery technologies are now economically outcompeting fossil fuels.The China paradox – leading the world in renewables while still expanding coal power.Whether current momentum is fast enough to keep warming below 1.5°C.The overlooked challenges – from sustainable aviation fuel to long-duration energy storage.The role of policy and regulation in shaping the speed and direction of the transition.We also touch on AI’s rising energy demand, how agrivoltaics and floating solar could resolve land use concerns, and why hydrogen won’t be the all-encompassing energy solution some envision.
Rystad brings data-driven insights into what’s working, where we’re lagging, and the key economic and technological trends shaping the future of energy. If you want a clear-eyed analysis of the energy transition, this episode is a must-listen.
🎧 Listen now!
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Factory farming isn’t just an animal welfare issue—it’s a major driver of climate change, biodiversity loss, and public health risks. In this episode of Climate Confident, I speak with Thom Norman, co-founder of FarmKind, to break down the true environmental costs of industrial animal agriculture and explore solutions.
We discuss:
✅ How factory farming contributes up to 19% of global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through methane, deforestation, and fertiliser use.
✅ The inefficiencies of animal agriculture—80% of cropland is used to feed livestock, yet it provides only 17% of global calorie intake.
✅ The role of antibiotic overuse in factory farming and its link to rising antimicrobial resistance.
✅ Why shifting to alternative proteins—such as plant-based and cultivated meat—could significantly reduce emissions and land use.
✅ The effectiveness of corporate campaigns in driving industry-wide change, such as the transition away from caged eggs.We also discuss consumer choices and why the focus shouldn’t just be on individuals but on systemic change—better policies, clear food labelling, and investment in sustainable food innovation.
If you’re interested in supporting impactful organisations tackling factory farming, Thom shares how FarmKind helps direct funding to the most effective charities.
🎧 Tune in to learn how rethinking food production can cut emissions and improve global health.
🔗 Links & Resources:
FarmKind: FarmKind.Giving
Compassion Calculator: CompassionCalculator.org👉 Follow the podcast for new episodes every Wednesday!
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Ollie Burch, a communications strategist and co-founder of Among Equals, to dive into the thorny but crucial issue of climate communications. How can we engage more people in the fight against climate change, and why are so many efforts to do so falling flat? Ollie, with his background in behavioural science and sustainability communications, offers fresh insights into what’s gone wrong—and, more importantly, how we can fix it.
One of the key takeaways from our conversation is that much of the current climate messaging is preaching to the choir. Ollie argues that climate communications have been framed largely through a progressive lens, unintentionally alienating large segments of the population. The solution? A shift towards messaging that resonates across political and cultural divides, leveraging behavioural psychology to make climate action feel relevant to everyday lives.
We also discuss the critical concept of psychological distance. Many people see climate change as a distant issue—whether geographically, socially, or temporally—making it difficult to inspire meaningful action. Ollie suggests that communicators need to focus on the here and now: how climate impacts things people care about, like their local environment, daily routines, or even their morning coffee.
Other highlights include:
Why reframing climate action as patriotic or grounded in personal values can bridge political divides.The importance of moving from anxiety-inducing messaging to practical, solution-oriented communications.How simplifying messages (think: “Get Brexit Done”) and tapping into social norms can be powerful tools for change.If you’re involved in climate communications, policymaking, or simply trying to make a difference, this episode offers actionable advice and a critical lens on how to communicate effectively about the most pressing issue of our time. Give it a listen, and let me know what you think!
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
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In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Angelo Campus, the CEO and co-founder of BoxPower, to explore the transformative potential of microgrids in building resilient and sustainable energy systems.
Angelo shares his journey from growing up at the edge of the grid in rural Northern California to founding a company that develops microgrids powered by solar, batteries, and backup generators. These systems are delivering power to underserved communities, disaster-stricken regions, and rural areas where traditional grid infrastructure is too costly or unreliable.
We delve into the surprising shift that brought BoxPower’s solutions back to the US, where ageing grid infrastructure and rising wildfire risks have utilities rethinking their approach to energy delivery. Angelo explains how microgrids can replace end-of-line infrastructure, reduce wildfire risks, and cut costs for utilities—all while increasing renewable energy use.
Key takeaways from the conversation include:
The economic tipping point where microgrids become more cost-effective than traditional distribution systems.The role of microgrids in improving energy access for tribal communities and disaster relief efforts.Why current battery technologies, though promising, still require complementary solutions like backup generators in certain climates.How utility collaboration and regulatory reform are essential to scaling distributed energy solutions.Angelo also provides a frank critique of clean tech investment trends, calling for more focus on infrastructure innovation over pure software solutions. His pragmatism about integrating existing technologies to combat climate change is refreshing.
Tune in to hear how microgrids could redefine our approach to energy in a rapidly warming world.
Links and Resources:
Visit BoxPower for more on their microgrid solutions.Connect with Angelo on LinkedIn or follow BoxPower on social media.Don’t forget to follow this podcast and leave a review!Let me know what you think of this episode—get in touch via LinkedIn or email at [email protected].
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In this week's episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Anders Lindberg, President of Wärtsilä Energy, to unpack the complexities of the global energy transition. Wärtsilä has a wealth of insight into how we can move towards a 100% renewable energy future—without breaking the bank.
Anders and I dive into the often-overlooked need for flexibility in energy systems. While solar and wind energy have become cheaper and more widespread, integrating them effectively into existing grids is far from straightforward. Anders explains how Wärtsilä’s grid-balancing engines and battery storage solutions can work together to stabilise energy supply, preventing curtailment and ensuring renewables deliver maximum impact.
We explore why relying solely on renewables and battery storage leads to significantly higher costs, using Chile as a case study where a more balanced system could save $17 billion in investment. Anders also tackles the future of green hydrogen, acknowledging its promise while stressing it won’t scale up meaningfully until 2035 or later. In the meantime, he makes the case for natural gas as a transitional fuel, with Wärtsilä’s engines already primed to run on sustainable fuels when they become viable.
Key takeaways from this episode:
Flexibility is critical: Balancing technologies like batteries and flexible engine power plants are essential for integrating renewables efficiently.Curtailment hurts progress: Inflexible grids force renewables offline, undermining their financial viability and prolonging fossil fuel reliance.Future-proof investments: Wärtsilä’s hydrogen-ready engines ensure today’s investments won’t become stranded assets tomorrow.Policy matters: Anders highlights how regulatory environments, like Texas' nodal pricing and the Texas Energy Fund, can either accelerate or hinder the energy transition.If you’re interested in how we can accelerate decarbonisation while maintaining energy security and controlling costs, this conversation offers plenty to consider.
For more on Wärtsilä’s work in shaping the future of energy, check out their website [insert link], or connect with Anders Lindberg on LinkedIn.
Thanks for tuning in—let’s stay climate confident!
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In this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Charlie Angelakos, Global VP of External Affairs and Sustainability at McCain Foods, to delve into the company’s ambitious goal of achieving 100% regenerative agriculture by 2030. With a direct relationship with 3,500 farmers globally and a commitment to farming in harmony with nature, McCain is tackling the twin challenges of climate resilience and sustainable food production.
Charlie provides a detailed breakdown of regenerative agriculture as McCain defines it—focusing on improving soil health, reducing emissions, and minimising reliance on synthetic inputs. He shares insights from their Farms of the Future initiative, where McCain tests and refines regenerative practices to share successes (and failures) with their farmer partners. Early results are encouraging, with emissions down 30% and fertiliser use reduced by 17% at their New Brunswick farm.
One key takeaway is the importance of partnerships. McCain collaborates closely with farmers, providing training, financial incentives, and long-term contracts to support the transition to regenerative methods. Charlie also highlights the role of broader collaboration across the food industry to standardise metrics and reduce pressure on farmers.
We also touch on educating consumers about the benefits of regenerative agriculture. From launching interactive tools to engaging advertising campaigns, McCain is making strides in closing the awareness gap.
Tune in to hear why regenerative agriculture isn’t just about climate—it’s about building a resilient, sustainable food system that works for both farmers and the planet.
Find links to McCain's sustainability initiatives, including their Hot Potato podcast here.
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This year-end episode of Climate Confident takes a deep dive into the most impactful insights from 2024. With 47 episodes of inspiring conversations, we explore the technological breakthroughs, systemic strategies, and collaborative efforts shaping climate action.
Highlights include Dragonfly Energy’s game-changing battery tech, Neara’s grid optimisation solutions, and regenerative agriculture practices from eAgrinom. We also discuss collaborative initiatives like the Dairy Methane Action Alliance and the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, showing the power of working together for real impact.
From innovative tools like Karma Wallet to storytelling-driven approaches by EcoAthletes, we see how individuals are driving change. On the policy front, the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act has been pivotal, while sovereign wealth funds and carbon-backed currencies hint at the future of climate finance.
As we head into 2025, I challenge you: What role will you play in the climate comeback? Every action matters. Join me in January for more insights as we continue building a sustainable future.
Enjoy the holidays, and let’s keep the momentum going!
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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 Climate Confident, I sit down with Stephan Müller from SAP to explore a major development in sustainability and finance – the newly launched SAP Green Ledger. Stephan, a finance expert at SAP, explains how this tool applies the same rigorous accounting principles used in finance to carbon emissions, offering companies a new level of transparency and trust in their sustainability reporting.
We discuss why CFOs are increasingly being seen as "Chief Value Officers", balancing financial performance with sustainability outcomes. Stephan makes a strong case that trustworthy carbon data isn’t just about compliance with regulations like CSRD or ISSB – it’s also a competitive advantage. More accurate, auditable data can help identify carbon hotspots, guide investments, and ultimately reduce emissions more effectively.
Key takeaways include:
Why sustainability reporting is landing on the CFO’s desk and how it's reshaping finance teams.How carbon budgets can be integrated into a company’s operations, alongside financial budgets, to target emissions reduction where it matters most.The role of solutions like SAP's Green Ledger in ensuring traceable and auditable carbon data – critical for avoiding accusations of greenwashing.We also touch on the broader implications of accurate carbon accounting, from attracting investment to reducing recruitment costs, as employees increasingly seek out purpose-driven employers.
If you’re a finance leader, sustainability officer, or just curious about the future of carbon reporting, this episode will give you a clear sense of where it’s all headed.
For more on SAP’s Green Ledger, check out sap.com/greenledger. As always, you can find me on LinkedIn to share your thoughts – is carbon accounting the next big thing for finance?
Listen now and stay climate confident. 🌍
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: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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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 Katie Anderson, Senior Director at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF). Katie leads efforts to drive climate action in the food and agriculture supply chain, making her an incredible resource on a topic we need to tackle urgently: methane emissions in agriculture.
Methane, a potent but short-lived greenhouse gas, is responsible for a significant portion of agricultural emissions. Katie explains why addressing methane is not only crucial for curbing global warming but also an opportunity to improve resilience in the food system. We dive into the critical role of the dairy industry, which accounts for a significant share of methane emissions, and explore actionable solutions such as improved herd management, better manure management techniques, and innovative feed additives like Bovair.
Katie also shares insights into the Dairy Methane Action Alliance, a coalition of major food and agriculture companies—including Nestlé, Danone, and General Mills—working together to measure, manage, and reduce methane emissions across their supply chains. We discuss how these companies collaborate to address barriers like financing and farmer engagement while sending a strong demand signal for low-emission practices.
Key takeaways include the need for globally scalable, yet locally tailored, approaches to methane reduction and the critical importance of farmer-to-farmer learning. We also chat about exciting innovations like methane-reducing cattle feed and genetic advancements to breed lower-emission livestock.
If you're curious about how cutting-edge solutions and collective action are shaping a more sustainable agricultural future, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
For more, visit business.edf.org/DMAA or connect with Katie on LinkedIn.
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Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: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 episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Chris Kruger, founder of AYK Energy, a leader in marine battery innovation. Together, we delved into the exciting yet challenging world of maritime electrification and the technologies driving its growth.
Chris shared insights into the evolution of marine batteries, from their humble beginnings powering communications systems to today's sophisticated propulsion applications. We discussed why lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries are emerging as the preferred choice for safety and cost-effectiveness, even as legacy technologies like NMC continue to dominate in some corners of the sector.
A key takeaway was the potential of containerised battery solutions, which could revolutionise short-sea shipping by offering flexibility and scalability. Chris drew parallels between these modular systems and the old stagecoach model—simply swap in fresh batteries, and you’re ready to go. It’s a clever way to overcome range limitations while easing infrastructure challenges.
We also explored the comparative merits of green fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia versus batteries. While hydrogen holds promise for long-distance voyages, Chris highlighted batteries’ superior efficiency and practicality for short-sea routes. He also shed light on the role of hybrid systems as a stepping stone toward full electrification.
Looking to the future, Chris explained how advances like solid-state batteries could transform marine electrification entirely, potentially enabling transoceanic voyages. It’s a bit further off, but the trajectory is promising.
Finally, we touched on the broader decarbonisation landscape and how companies like AYK Energy are making sustainable solutions affordable and accessible by leveraging economies of scale in manufacturing.
Whether you’re an industry insider or just curious about maritime innovation, this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful look at the technologies shaping a greener future for shipping.
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Podcast supporters
Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: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 -
Send me a message
In this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by John Lang, Project Lead at the Net Zero Tracker and a leading figure in the fight for transparency and accountability in climate action. Together, we explore the complexities behind net zero commitments and unpack what’s needed to transform promises into meaningful results.
John explains the work of the Net Zero Tracker, which monitors over 4,000 entities worldwide—including countries, companies, cities, and regions—on their progress (or lack thereof) towards achieving net zero. He sheds light on a troubling reality: while ambition is on the rise, integrity is still lagging behind. Shockingly, only 1 in 20 entities meet the minimum procedural requirements for credible net zero targets.
We also delve into the role of subnational governments—regions and cities—in driving climate action, particularly in the face of national inaction. John outlines how aligning local and national policies (what he calls "vertical governance") and fostering ambition loops can accelerate progress.
A key takeaway from this episode is the persistent confusion around net zero standards, which allows some entities to hide behind weak targets. John stresses the urgent need for standardisation and convergence, which could close the gaps in accountability.
Finally, we discuss practical ways individuals can make a difference, from talking about climate change to pushing for systemic change, whether through politics or their personal spheres of influence.
This conversation is a compelling reminder of the challenges we face, but also the power of collective action in moving the needle on climate goals.
Have a listen, and let’s keep this vital conversation going!
Support the show
Podcast supporters
Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold
I'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: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 - Laat meer zien
