Podcasts about sustainable infrastructure

Water is something most of us take for granted. We turn on the tap, and it's just there. But behind that tap is an increasingly strained system that is quietly becoming one of the defining infrastructure challenges of our time. Just in the US, McKinsey estimates we are underinvesting in water assets by about $100 billion annually, with the cost only compounding as more investment is delayed.  The effects are already being seen with over 20% of treated water lost through leaks in pipes that are sometimes 70 years old, generating no revenue for cash-strapped utilities. The record data center and industrial development buoying our economy is now facing major opposition, often due to local water demands. In addition, there are growing concerns and regulations regarding the forever chemicals, known as PFAS, which are showing up in more of our water supply. Today, I'm joined by Guillaume Clairet of H20 Innovation, who has helped build the company into a water treatment powerhouse over the past 25 years. From massive municipal reuse projects to distributed systems serving the critical industrial facilities, H2O is leading the water infrastructure buildout and offers a hopeful outlook on how we can start addressing our water needs. Let's dive in. Links: H20 Innovation Website Guillaume Clairet's LinkedIn Email your feedback to Gil, Guy, Hilary, and Kenny at climatepositive@hasi.com.

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Connected Nation, we're joined by a tech leader who's helped global enterprises modernize the cloud, harness AI for real-time decisions, and even rethink sustainable infrastructure for EV charging. We'll talk about getting the cloud right, the AI trends that matter, and what all of this means for ISPs and states building next gen networks. Recommended links:Chris Carter LinkedInApproyo website

We already have the technology to decarbonize buildings, and many pilot projects have shown it works. So why hasn't progress toward net zero moved faster? Colin Mangham believes it's because we're still using outdated business models to promote new solutions. Colin is the Chief Experience Officer at the US Green Building Council California and leads its Net Zero Accelerator, the first program focused only on net-zero innovation for buildings. Since 2019, the accelerator has helped over 100 companies in a six-month program that stands out by putting real technology pilots into actual buildings with dedicated partners, then tracking the results. This approach has led to more than 60 pilot projects in California and beyond, providing the proven results that founders and investors need to move forward. Colin offers a unique mix of experience to this field. He has served as Chief Marketing Officer at four growing companies, co-founded and led Morpho Energy, which helps put unused commercial rooftops to work for solar, and he is a certified biomimicry specialist, which shapes what he teaches founders. He often thinks about beavers, which are keystone species that create habitats for others by building their own homes. As he tells entrepreneurs, “This thing that you're creating, it should also create better living environments for the people and the neighboring organisms all around you.” It's an approach that applies systems thinking to business strategy, leading to companies that differ from the typical Silicon Valley disruptors.To learn more about the Net Zero Accelerator, visit NetZeroAccelerator.org. Learn about the US Green Building Council of California at USGBC-CA.org.

Irma Potes, Director of Community Outreach, Grupo Mexico, Paulina Serrano, Deputy Director of Sustainability, Grupo Mexico, joins Natalie Blyth, Global Head of Sustainable Finance & Transition, HSBC and Jose Carlos Sanchez, Mexico Chief Economist, HSBC Global Investment Research, to discuss Grupo Mexico's innovative approach to sustainability transition as well as their impact on communities and the environment.This episode was recorded on 16 October 2025.Disclaimer: Views of external guest speakers do not represent those of HSBC.

Did you know that 75% of the infrastructure the world will use in 2050 hasn't been built yet? That means the choices we make today—about roads, bridges, railways, ports, and power systems—will shape the future of both human development and the natural world. In this episode of Nature Breaking, WWF's Ryan Bartlett, Director for Climate Resilience and Risk Management, explains how we can build the infrastructure we need without destroying the ecosystems we rely on for critical benefits, including resilience to worsening weather extremes. From habitat fragmentation to increased flooding, poorly planned infrastructure can unintentionally cause huge environmental and social problems. But with the right planning tools, safeguards, and nature-based solutions that treat nature as infrastructure, we can chart a very different path forward. Links for More Info: Ryan Bartlett bio WWF Sustainable Infrastructure page Sustainable Infrastructure Program in Asia Greening Transportation Infrastructure Development (GRID) Chapters: 0:00 Preview 0:26 Intro 1:38 Challenges and opportunities with infrastructure development 4:37 Unintended consequences from poorly planned infrastructure 8:05 Best practices to balance infrastructure with nature & climate concerns 10:58 Solutions for infrastructure bisecting wildlife habitat 15:20 Asia as a key region for sustainable infrastructure 18:30 Sustainable Infrastructure Program in Asia (SIPA) 28:53 Lessons learned from SIPA 31:07 Greening Transportation Infrastructure Development (GRID) program 34:32 What does success look like for advancing sustainable infrastructure development? 37:39 Outro

We're joined by Professor Michael Neuman to talk about his book Sustainable Infrastructure for Cities and Societies.  We chat about why trees are important models for infrastructure development, the important lessons of Barcelona for the world, and why infrastructure is lately seen as a monetary asset instead of a public good.  This week we're going back in time to Episode 392 from July of 2022.  I really loved this book and hope that more people would read it.  It's an academic title but Professor Neuman really shared a lot of new ideas and thoughts in here.  And I love the discussion about trees as beings way wiser than us humans…. Also I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  We might have something for you next week but I'm not going to guarantee it.  We do have some AMAZING things coming next year so stay tuned! +++ Get the show ad free on Patreon! Follow us on Bluesky, Threads, Instagram, YouTube, Flickr, Substack ... @theoverheadwire Follow us on Mastadon theoverheadwire@sfba.social Support the show on Patreon http://patreon.com/theoverheadwire Buy books on our Bookshop.org Affiliate site!  And get our Cars are Cholesterol shirt at Tee-Public! And everything else at http://theoverheadwire.com

Comments/ideas: theasiaclimatecapitalpodcast@gmail.com Discover how nature itself is becoming the new infrastructure shaping our future. In this episode, experts from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank reveal how wetlands, mangroves, and forests are not just scenery but powerful tools for climate resilience and sustainable economic growth. We discuss innovative finance solutions mobilising private capital, the challenges of valuing natural assets, and why protecting nature is critical for survival, economics, and smart planning.REF: INVESTING IN NATURE AS INFRASTRUCTUREABOUT ERIK: Erik Berglof is the Bank's inaugural Chief Economist. He sets the vision and strategy for the Economics Department and leads the planning, implementation and supervision of its work plan in support of the Bank's mandate. Prior to joining AIIB in September 2020, he was Director of the Institute of Global Affairs, London School of Economics, and Chief Economist of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development from 2006 to 2015, where he was part of creating, and co-led, the Vienna Initiative, a European crisis response team credited with mitigating the impact of the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. He is an expert in transition economics and institutional transformation through private sector development. He holds a PhD in Financial Economics and an MA in Business and Economics, both from the Stockholm School of Economics. Berglof is from Sweden.ABOUT JP: Jang Ping Thia joined the AIIB in 2016 and is currently the Lead Economist and the Manager of the Economics Department. The department is responsible for economic analysis at AIIB, covering country macroeconomics, debt sustainability analysis, review of project economics, to support investment operations. The department is also responsible for AIIB's flagship publication, the Asian Infrastructure Finance report, which highlights infrastructure development and financing issues. He was previously with the Singapore Ministry of Finance, covering expenditures on security, sports, community and telecommunication infrastructure. With a PhD from the London School of Economics, he also held a stint as the Economics Director at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, overseeing economic forecasting, research and the development of the Economist Service. Working on trade and geography, infrastructure development and finance related issues, his research has been published in various journals.FEEDBACK: Email Host | HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep0-29 The Open Goldberg Variations, Kimiko Ishizaka Ep30-50 Orchestra Gli Armonici – Tomaso Albinoni, Op.07, Concerto 04 per archi in Sol - III. Allegro. | Ep51 – Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G, Movement I (Allegro), BWV 1049 Kevin MacLeod. Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

Infrastructure systems around the world are under strain — from roads and bridges to power and water networks. Host Angie Dickson, President of the Inogen Alliance and EVP of Antea Group USA, is joined by Chris Perks, Sector Director of Transportation at Tonkin + Taylor in New Zealand, and Thomas Noack, VP of International Business at HPC in Germany. Together, they explore new funding models, sustainable design, and the growing role of private-sector innovation in building infrastructure that lasts.  Guest Quotes“Everybody in the infrastructure sector in New Zealand feels a great responsibility and a privilege to maintain the beauty and the environmental benefit of the country while still improving our infrastructure.” – Chris“Europe wants to be climate neutral in 2050. This means we have huge investments necessary for energy, roads, logistics, and digitalization.” – Thomas  Time Stamps 02:40 Funding Models and the Role of Public-Private Partnerships06:10 Innovation and Whole-of-Life Thinking in Infrastructure07:45 Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility in New Zealand11:20 How Tonkin + Taylor Embeds Environmental Values in Practice14:00 Policy, Technology, and Mindset Shifts for the Future18:30 Infrastructure Challenges Across Europe22:50 EU Investment and Regional Development26:10 Environmental Permitting and Smart Planning30:15 Sustainability Certifications and Material Choices33:20 The Future of Infrastructure and Global Collaboration  Sponsor CopyRethinking EHS is brought to you by the Inogen Alliance. Inogen Alliance is a global network of 70+ companies providing environment, health, safety, and sustainability services, working together to provide one point of contact to guide multinational organizations to meet their global commitments locally. Visit inogenalliance.com to learn more.  LinksInogenalliance.com/resources Inogenalliance.com/podcastAngie on LinkedInChris on LinkedInThomas on LinkedIn Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Our Director of Competitiveness Matthew Fell is joined by Janet Greenwood, Global Lead for Sustainable Infrastructure at KPMG, to explore how systems thinking can drive sustainable growth, crowd in private investment, and accelerate progress towards net zero. The pair also delve into how devolution can support the Government's mission-based approach to policy development and lessons that can be learned from the innovative financing models that have helped to deliver major projects across London and beyond.       Follow us on X at @_businessLDN and on LinkedIn at BusinessLDN. Music is provided by Coma-Media.

Biodegradable water-soluble films. Recycling that reuses molecules over and over. AI that can develop more sustainable polymers. In this conversation, Sustainably Speaking host Mia Quinn sits down with Anne Kolton, Chief Sustainability Officer at SK Capital Partners, to explore the next wave of innovation in manufacturing and materials. Anne shares how her team invests in companies developing breakthrough products, how U.S. manufacturing can launch smarter, more efficient processes, and why engineering and AI will transform the materials we all use every day. 

Comments, guest ideas: theasiaclimatecapitalpodcast@gmail.comFuel your understanding of climate finance and energy transition. Join Woochong Um, CEO of the Global Energy Alliance, as he reveals how bold partnerships and innovative financing are powering global clean energy solutions. Discover real-world stories of impact, scaling technologies, and breaking down barriers to a greener future. Tune in to unlock the future of sustainable development.GEAPP REPORT: Impact Report 2025ABOUT WOOCHONG: Woochong Um is the Chief Executive Officer of the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). Following a distinguished career at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Woochong brings a wealth of experience and expertise in sustainable development, climate financing, and strategic development to GEAPP. At GEAPP, Woochong leads the Alliance's strategy, finance mobilization and solutions to accelerate the transition to renewable energy in emerging economies, addressing a defining challenge of our time: ending energy poverty and tackling the climate crisis through a just transition to renewable energy. His appointment marks an important milestone for GEAPP's commitment to realizing greater change and opportunities to unlock green energy in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean to power progress and secure an inclusive, resilient future for all.FEEDBACK: Email Host | HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli | MUSIC: Ep0-29 The Open Goldberg Variations, Kimiko Ishizaka Ep30-50 Orchestra Gli Armonici – Tomaso Albinoni, Op.07, Concerto 04 per archi in Sol - III. Allegro. | Ep51 – Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G, Movement I (Allegro), BWV 1049 Kevin MacLeod. Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

Introducing the Hydro20, a group of twenty individuals celebrated for driving change, disrupting norms, and doing good for water sustainability across the United States.The Hydro20 is an initiative of waterloop, a nonprofit news outlet, and was announced during Climate Week NYC at the Rethinking Water conference hosted by Columbia University.The inaugural Hydro20 Honorees:-Jorge Richardson – Founder, HOPE Hydration (Access)-Richard Diaz – Infrastructure Field Manager, BlueGreen Alliance (Advocacy)-Seth Watkins – Farmer, Pinkhook Farm (Agriculture)-Britton Smith – Lead Singer, Britton and the Sting (Arts)-Dan Tudesco – Associate Director of Community Water Systems, Brita (Business)-Teal Lehto – Western Water Girl (Communications)-Jerry Holden – Director – Southern Region, Ducks Unlimited (Conservation)-Dana Okano – Director, Hawaii Environmental Finance Center (Finance)-Tom Gamble – Owner & Operator, Gamble Estates (Food & Beverage)-Shanna Yazzie – Manager, Safety & Compliance, DigDeep (Frontlines)-Rachel Brown – Senior Policy Advisor, U.S. Department of the Interior (Government)-Lorelei Cloud – Vice Chairman, Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council (Indigenous)-Alaina Harkness – CEO, Current (Innovation)-Carletta Davis – President, We Matter Community Association (Justice)-Manny Teodoro – Professor of Public Affairs, University of Wisconsin–Madison (Policy)-Raha Hakimdavar – CEO, Zyon Space; Professor, Georgetown University (Science)-Omar Mitchell – VP of Sustainable Infrastructure and Growth Initiatives, National Hockey League (Sports)-Greg Newbloom – Founder & CEO, Membrion (Technology)-Aaron Tartakovsky – CEO, Epic Cleantec (Treatment)-Aaron Kirkland – Superintendent, Green Stormwater Operations, Philadelphia Water Department (Utility)Watch the Hydro20 announcement video and explore individual honoree profiles and videos at www.hydro20.org.The Hydro20 is presented in partnership with Sciens Water and sponsored by the Environmental Defense Fund, Antea Group, and Human Capital Solutions.waterloop is a nonprofit news outlet exploring solutions for water sustainability.

Learn 5 quick insights in climate & clean energy, startup investment, AI for entrepreneurs, and mindfulness in leadership — straight from my Climate CEOs newsletter. Join 40,000 who get it. https://entrepreneursforimpact.substack.com(Shout out to Carbon Brief on the visual.)

In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show podcast, we sit down with Martin Renkis, Executive Director of Global Alliances for Sustainable Infrastructure at Johnson Controls, to explore how Data Center Cooling as a Service (DCCaaS) is changing the way operators think about risk, capital, and sustainability. Johnson Controls has delivered guaranteed infrastructure services for over 40 years, shifting cooling from a CAPEX burden to an OPEX model. The company designs, builds, operates, and maintains systems under long-term agreements that transfer performance risk away from the operator. Key to the model is AI-driven optimization through platforms like OpenBlue, paired with financial guarantees tied directly to customer-defined KPIs. A joint venture with Apollo Group (Ionic Blue) also provides flexible financing, freeing up capital for land or expansion. With rising rack densities and unpredictable AI factory demands, Renkis says cooling-as-a-service offers “a financially guaranteed safety net” that adapts to change while advancing sustainability goals. Listen now to learn how Johnson Controls is redefining cooling for the AI era.

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Episode 180 with Dr Rufaro Nyakatawa, a leading voice in sustainable finance and international development, and a key figure in shaping Jersey's strategic engagement with Africa. Dr Rufaro serves as Sustainable Finance Lead at Jersey Finance, where she champions the role of international finance centres in mobilising capital for Africa's sustainable growth. With a rich background spanning environmental policy, infrastructure investment, and financial inclusion, she brings a unique, cross-disciplinary perspective to global sustainability conversations.In this episode, Dr Rufaro discusses the future of sustainability in Africa, focusing on the critical sectors of energy, transport, and water. She unpacks the challenges facing African nations as they strive to modernise ageing infrastructure amidst rising urbanisation and climate risks, and shares real-world examples of green and resilient projects that are beginning to deliver tangible impact.Dr Rufaro also explores how African governments and private sector actors can better mobilise capital and innovation to scale sustainable infrastructure solutions. She reflects on the vital role of International Finance Centres like Jersey in supporting Africa's ambitions by connecting global capital with local development priorities.What We Discuss With Dr RufaroHow Dr Rufaro Nyakatawa's diverse background in environmental science, development finance, and international policy informs her approach to sustainable finance in Africa.Why sustainable infrastructure in energy, transport, and water is essential to Africa's long-term development.The major roadblocks African countries face in transitioning to green, inclusive, and climate-resilient infrastructure models.How African governments and private sector actors can work together to mobilise capital and drive innovation in sustainable infrastructure.The role International Finance Centres like Jersey play in supporting Africa's infrastructure goals by connecting global capital with local development priorities.Did you miss my previous episode where I discus How a South African Startup Is Giving Underserved Communities Access To Instant Emergency-Response Services? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser:LinkedIn - Terser AdamuInstagram - unlockingafricaTwitter (X) - @TerserAdamuConnect with Dr Rufaro:LinkedIn - Dr Rufaro NyakatawaTwitter - @jerseyfinanceDo you want to do business in Africa? Explore the vast business opportunities in African markets and increase your success with ETK Group. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.ukSubscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and bonus material - Unlocking Africa Newsletter

For real estate investors and owners, figuring out how to reduce carbon emissions without raising the cost of building new or retrofitting is a major challenge. My guest today, Laura Rapaport, founder and CEO of North Bridge, is leading the way in providing financing that does just that. C-PACE is a long term, fixed-rate credit product secured by a special property assessment, and North Bridge has recently secured a $1 billion commitment from the Carlyle Group to originate C-PACE loans. Rapaport explains how this financing can ensure that resilient and sustainable real estate projects have the flexibility required for completion while reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption and benefiting local economies. All PACE projects to date are expected to reduce carbon emissions by 3 million tons.

Thabo Shole Mashao, standing in for Clement Manyathela speaks to Tsakani Manyike, the Acting Head of Infrastructure at the Industrial Development Corporation about how the infrastructure sector can serve as an enabler for inclusive growthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thabo Shole Mashao, standing in for Clement Manyathela speaks to Vanessa Baldwin from Cata Energy about the need for green transition in the African continent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 21st Century Water, we sit down with Andrea Cole, General Manager of Dominion Water & Sanitation District in Colorado. With a background in engineering and law, Andrea brings a multidimensional perspective to leading water, wastewater, and stormwater efforts in the fast-growing Sterling Ranch community. We begin by exploring her journey from a small town in Wyoming, where an early appreciation for natural resources sparked her passion for water. Her unique blend of technical knowledge and legal expertise has positioned her to address the regulatory, financial, and political challenges that utilities face today.We dive into Sterling Ranch's model of sustainability, where renewable water is foundational—not an afterthought. Dominion, under Andrea's leadership, has helped position the community as a leader in water efficiency, achieving usage rates as low as 0.17 acre-feet per home annually. This mindset-first approach has shaped a culture where residents inherently value water as a finite resource. With only 10% of the community built out so far, Sterling Ranch is on track to grow to nearly 60,000 residents, with infrastructure in place to support long-term sustainability.We also look at Douglas County's broader vision for growth, where Dominion plays a central role in establishing renewable water systems to support future economic development. A key highlight is the $34 million regional wastewater treatment plant set to break ground, which will treat reusable water and enable indirect potable reuse. This project also connects a nearby disadvantaged community to modern infrastructure and safe water, correcting long-standing issues with non-renewable, contaminated sources.Andrea emphasizes the importance of soft skills in leadership—stakeholder engagement, regulatory navigation, and political awareness—as often more critical than the technical engineering work itself. Her legal training enables her to view regulatory frameworks not as barriers but as tools for innovative problem-solving. We also discuss Dominion's forward-thinking investment strategy, totaling over $70 million across wastewater, pump stations, and water pipeline projects in the coming years.Despite being a small and growing utility with only 11 employees, Dominion is leveraging its flexibility to adopt modern technology like GIS to enhance planning and operations. Workforce development is another key theme, with Andrea focusing on hiring people who thrive in dynamic environments and want to help shape the district's future. She closes by expressing her vision for a legacy rooted in sustainability—a future where our great-grandchildren can enjoy water and nature just as we have.Links:Dominion Water & Sanitation District: https://www.dominionwsd.orgSterling Ranch Community: https://www.sterlingranchcolorado.comDouglas County Government: https://www.douglas.co.usAmerican Rescue Plan Act: https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/state-and-local-fiscal-recovery-funds Aquasight Website: https://aquasight.io/

There are a handful of people in the clean energy and infrastructure world whose knowledge and voices serve as guiding lights. Shayle Kann is one of those people. Known for his deep expertise, unique perspective, and distinct voice, Shayle has covered and shaped the energy transition for years.While regular listeners will know, we typically feature startup founders. But Shayle's long-standing influence—from GTM and The Interchange to EIP and Catalyst—made it a true pleasure to turn the mic around.This episode, recorded in front of a live, sold-out audience at SF Climate Week, marked Shayle's first time as our guest, though he's no stranger to the show. For the first few years of Watt It Takes, starting in 2017, when every episode was recorded in front of a live audience, Shayle would kick off each conversation by setting the industry context and introducing our guest.In this episode, we trace Shayle's journey, starting with his roots in Madison, Wisconsin, and share how his entrepreneurial spirit and compelling storytelling abilities have been instrumental in his rise as a leader.On a personal note, I've known Shayle for nearly a decade. He has been a colleague and a friend, and I'm excited for him to tell his story.SponsorsThis live recording, and this next season of Watt It Takes, is brought to you by our lead sponsor, HSBC Innovation Banking who is proud to bank some of the most exciting companies pioneering the technologies of tomorrow.With specialist financing support, deep understanding of the challenges, and a global network across more than 50 markets, they help clients scale breakthrough innovations, and take them to the world.So, if you're looking for early-stage funding, or well on your way to FOAK, click the link in the show notes to learn how HSBC Innovation Banking can help on the next stage of your journey.About Powerhouse Innovation and Powerhouse Ventures Powerhouse Innovation is a leading consulting firm connecting top-tier corporations and investors, including corporate innovation teams, CVCs, and pensions with cutting-edge technologies and startups that meet their specific criteria for engagement. Powerhouse Ventures backs entrepreneurs building the digital infrastructure for rapid decarbonization. To hear more stories of founders building our climate positive future, hit the “subscribe” button and leave us a review.

Send me a messageIn 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.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll 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.ContactIf 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. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

The prevailing discourse on sustainability is often dominated by high-tech solutions—AI-driven emissions tracking, smart grids, and digital monitoring systems. While these technologies play an important role in measuring and managing environmental impact, they do not address the structural and systemic changes necessary to build a truly sustainable future. The built environment—infrastructure, material use, and urban design—fundamentally shapes environmental outcomes, yet discussions on sustainability frequently overlook low-tech, high-impact solutions in favor of complex monitoring mechanisms. That being said, the increasing reliance on data-driven climate strategies raises concerns about privacy, governance, and the broader role of digital surveillance in environmental policy. Individuals already provide more personal data to private corporations via smartphones than they do to public sustainability initiatives, yet cities continue to struggle with translating environmental data into meaningful action. This raises an essential question: should we focus less on tracking sustainability and more on embedding it into infrastructure, construction, and urban planning from the outset? This week on Beyond the Headlines, we examine the intersection of sustainability, infrastructure, and governance. How can we integrate low-tech, scalable solutions into urban design and construction to reduce environmental impact without reliance on constant monitoring? What role do transportation networks, material efficiency, and land-use planning play in driving sustainability outcomes? And how can policymakers balance data collection, climate accountability, and privacy considerations in environmental governance? To explore these critical questions, we are joined by Dr. Shoshanna Saxe, a leading expert in sustainable infrastructure and urban resilience. She is an Assistant Professor in the University of Toronto's Department of Civil and Mineral Engineering and holds the Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Infrastructure. Dr. Saxe's research investigates the relationship between infrastructure and society, identifying pathways to align urban development, transportation systems, and material use with long-term sustainability goals. Beyond academia, Dr. Saxe is actively involved in policy and sustainability governance, serving on Waterfront Toronto's Capital Peer Review Panel and the board of the International Society for Industrial Ecology. Recognized as one of Canada's emerging environmental leaders by Clean50, she was also awarded the 2019 Ontario Engineering Medal – Young Engineer. Her research and expert commentary have been widely featured in The New York Times, The BBC, The Toronto Star, The Financial Post, Spacing Magazine, and Wired. Join us as we move beyond the traditional conversation on high-tech climate solutions and critically examine the foundational role of infrastructure, design, and governance in shaping a sustainable future. Produced by: Julia Brahy

On this special episode recorded for SportsPro's Impact Week, editorial director Michael Long is joined by Wayne Mumford, sports and leisure director at RSK Group.As one of the world's leading sustainable engineering companies, RSK has built its sprawling business implementing sustainable solutions across a range of sectors, from water to energy - and now it's turning its attention to sport.Mumford, a former commercial director in soccer, joins the show to discuss his personal experience of operating in the industry and why sports organisations need to get serious about environmental sustainability – not only for the good of the planet, but for the benefit of their balance sheet. He also lifts the lid on RSK's business model and how it's helping clubs and venue operators achieve both short and long-term savings through investments in sustainable infrastructure.Key talking points: Why most loss-making soccer clubs are sitting on an untapped revenue opportunity The challenge of getting sustainability on the boardroom agenda Balancing short-term commercial imperatives with sustained environmental action Sport's wider role and influence in tackling climate changeThis episode forms part of SportsPro's Impact Week, a five-day run of exclusive content profiling sport's social and environmental impact. Click here to find out more and access every piece of content for free.

This episode of 21st Century Water features a dynamic conversation with Ghassan Korban, Executive Director of the Sewage & Water Board of New Orleans. Korban shares insights from his six-year tenure, focusing on the challenges and transformative solutions for New Orleans' water infrastructure, a system vital to a city below sea level. The episode dives into the critical steps taken to modernize the city's systems, sustain its population, and adapt to increasing environmental challenges.Korban reflects on transitioning to New Orleans after 31 years in Milwaukee, driven by his passion for solving complex engineering problems. He recounts inheriting a system struggling with aging infrastructure and a battered reputation following significant flooding in 2017. Korban emphasizes the importance of prioritizing efforts, starting with stabilizing critical systems while pursuing long-term, future-proof solutions.A major milestone for the city has been the development of a new power generation complex, ensuring reliable energy for drainage operations—essential for keeping the city dry during rain events. This new system transitions from antiquated, failure-prone turbines to a robust mix of external power supply and backup gas turbines, designed to serve the city for decades. Korban also highlights the successful rollout of smart meters (AMI), addressing billing inaccuracies and modernizing customer service, with over half the population now transitioned to the new system.The discussion explores innovative funding strategies, including New Orleans' unique “fair share” agreement, which channels tourism-generated tax revenue into water infrastructure projects. With the Super Bowl around the corner and Mardi Gras to follow, Korban explains New Orleans' unique position as a city with more tourists than residents. This effort, alongside loans and grants from programs like WIFIA and SRF, has helped fund critical improvements while reducing the financial burden on residents. Korban underscores the importance of earning trust through effective execution, ensuring future funding access.Korban also describes the intricacies of New Orleans' drainage system, consisting of 24 strategically placed pumping stations with nearly 100 pumps. These systems often activate up to 20 times a year, often during heavy rains, to prevent flooding. Additionally, Korban shares the city's response to new threats like saltwater intrusion in the Mississippi River, driven by drought and climate change, which jeopardizes the city's raw water supply.The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of workforce development and legacy building. Korban expresses confidence in the team he has cultivated and their ability to carry forward a culture of innovation, responsibility, and resilience. He also emphasizes the urgency of addressing talent gaps and sustaining investment in infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of a changing environment.Korban's work exemplifies leadership through prioritization, execution, and adaptability. His focus on sustainable, resilient systems and creative funding solutions serves as a model for cities grappling with aging infrastructure and climate challenges.New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board: https://www.swbno.org Aquasight Website: https://aquasight.io/

For real estate investors and owners, figuring out how to reduce carbon emissions without raising the cost of building new or retrofitting is a major challenge. My guest today, Laura Rapaport, founder and CEO of North Bridge, is leading the way in providing financing that does just that. C-PACE is a long term, fixed-rate credit product secured by a special property assessment, and North Bridge has recently secured a $1 billion commitment from the Carlyle Group to originate C-PACE loans. Rapaport explains how this financing can ensure that resilient and sustainable real estate projects have the flexibility required for completion while reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption, and benefiting local economies. All PACE projects to date are expected to reduce carbon emissions by 3 million tons.

In this episode, I talk with Maria Lehman, P.E., NAC, ENV SP, F.ASCE, US Infrastructure Lead at GHD, about sustainable infrastructure and how to address climate change challenges to build stronger, future-ready communities. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Maria: What do […] The post The Role of Sustainable Infrastructure in a Changing World – Ep 276 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Are the apps on your phone subtly rewiring your brain? Digital sociologist Dr. Julie Albright returns to the pod this week to discuss how social media's dopamine-driven design is reshaping our behavior and society itself. While humans are naturally wired for connection, the random rewards from these apps are creating ripple effects we can't ignore. Learn more about Dr. Albright's groundbreaking research and explore the psychological and social consequences of our app-driven world. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Julie Albright is one of the leading experts in Digital Sociology. Dr. Albright is currently a Lecturer in the departments of Applied Psychology and Engineering at USC, where she teaches masters courses on the Psychology of Interactive Technologies and Sustainable Infrastructure. She has given keynotes for major data center, energy, and other industry conferences and also appeared as an expert on national media, including The Today Show, CNN, NBC Nightly News, CBS, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and NPR. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | Overcast FOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.

In this episode of Cities 1.5, David speaks with two urban climate leaders about the critical issue of energy access in Africa. Despite Africa's low contribution to global emissions, the continent faces a rising energy demand that necessitates a transition to renewable energy in order to ensure its accessibility for all. The fossil fuel industry has a devastating legacy across the African continent, leaving a trail of destruction in its polluting wake...and the oil lobby often presents pipelines to local communities as the only path forward - without disclosing the fact that they're more unstable, dangerous and expensive than green alternatives. City leaders from diverse communities across this part of the world are fighting to facilitate energy access through innovative local policies to achieve a healthy, sustainable, equitable, future for all residents.Image Credit: Photo by Aaron Jones @ UnsplashFeatured guests:Hilda Flavia Nakabuye is a youth climate, gender and environmental rights activist and founder of the Uganda chapter of Fridays for Future, who is fighting to stop the development of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline.Dorah Modise is the Regional Director for Africa at C40 and is a sustainability enthusiast and expert.LINKS:Access to electricity - International Energy Agency Fridays for Future: UgandaStop the East Africa Crude Oil PipelineGlobal Witness condemns escalating arrests of climate campaigners in Uganda - Global Witness Decarbonising the city's grid through solar farming and efficiency measures - South Africa, Cape Town, C40 Cities Finance FacilityA renewable energy roadmap for African cities - C40 Knowledge HubC40 Cities launches research on South Africa green jobsCities forge connections with private sector at Africa's Green Economy Summit - C40 Empowering African youth for a sustainable future in African cities - C40 If you want to learn more about the Journal of City Climate Policy and Economy, please visit our website: https://jccpe.utpjournals.press/Cities 1.5 is a podcast by University of Toronto Press and is produced in association with the Journal of City Climate Policy and Economy. Our executive producers are Calli Elipoulos and Peggy Whitfield.Produced by Jess Schmidt: https://jessdoespodcasting.com/Edited by Morgane Chambrin: https://www.morganechambrin.com/Music is by Lorna Gilfedder: https://origamipodcastservices.com/

The 17th episode in this series focuses on the “Accelerating Sustainable Infrastructure Finance and Development,” with Susan H. Mac Cormac, Co-chair of the ESG + Sustainability and Social Enterprise + Impact Investing practices at MoFo, in conversation with Jonah Goldman, Generate's Head of External Affairs and Impact.

In this episode of The CFO Playbook, David McClelland is joined by Marie Joyce, CFO and COO of NTR, the trailblazing renewable energy specialist to discuss their mission to advance sustainable infrastructure by investing in wind, solar, and energy storage assets across Europe. What exactly does it take to transform from toll roads to renewable energy? Marie reveals the incredible evolution of NTR, offering a rare glimpse into the strategic milestones that have defined the company, from its early investments in wind energy with Airtricity in 1999 to its current focus on wind, solar, and energy storage projects across Europe. We hear how NTR's diversification across various markets and technologies has cemented its leadership in the renewable energy sector. Marie also shines a light on the pivotal decisions that set NTR apart, such as the shift from a US-centric approach to capitalising on the stable European market. She recounts the company's transition to co-investing with institutional capital, a move that has significantly mitigated risk while expanding investment capabilities. Hear how advancements in technology have made renewable projects financially viable without government subsidies, and how strategic partnerships, such as with Legal & General Investment Management, have been instrumental in the company's growth. Beyond the financial strategy, Marie lifts the lid on the human element that drives NTR's success including initiatives to foster diversity and inclusion in the traditionally male-dominated sectors of engineering and finance. From flexible working arrangements to fertility leave, NTR's culture not only supports its workforce but also aligns with its ambitious climate goals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

(3:00) - Printing with earth-based materialsThis episode was brought to you by Mouser, our favorite place to get electronics parts for any project, whether it be a hobby at home or a prototype for work. Click HERE to learn more about the history of additive manufacturing and why it is so critical to adopt in the construction sector! Become a founding reader of our newsletter: http://read.thenextbyte.com/ As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.

In 2009 the United Nations Climate Change Conference, better known as COP15, was held in Copenhagen with public interest swelling behind the climate debate. In this episode of Engineering Reimagined, Michael Nolan speaks with Nicolas Buchoud, about the intention of COP15 and its impact on subsequent global decisions, the growing importance of resilient infrastructure and sustainable finance, and how major global events like the Olympic Games can reshape infrastructure for a host city.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the tech lounge this episode, I have Leonard Pahlke talking about bringing sustainability to infrastructure and the work of the CNCF sustainability TAG and Dedy Kredo from Codium AI talking about their AI-powered IDE and text editor extension. For show notes and an interactive transcript, visit chrischinchilla.com/podcast/To reach out and say hello, visit chrischinchilla.com/contact/To support the show for ad-free listening and extra content, visit chrischinchilla.com/support/

In this episode of the Insider's Guide to Energy Podcast, we dive deep into the world of green finance with Andrew Kessler, President of the NY Green Bank. As the largest and one of the oldest green banks in the United States, the NY Green Bank has played a pivotal role in advancing clean energy initiatives across the state. Andrew shares insights on how the bank has effectively utilized its $1 billion capital to fund over $7 billion worth of sustainable infrastructure projects, while maintaining self-sustainability. Andrew discusses the challenges and opportunities in financing the energy transition, debunking common myths about green banks and explaining the critical role they play in animating private sector capital. He also highlights specific projects funded by the NY Green Bank, such as community solar, energy storage, and building decarbonization, and the significant impact these initiatives have had on New York's journey toward a greener future. Whether you're a financial professional, an energy enthusiast, or simply curious about the inner workings of green finance, this episode offers valuable insights. Finally, Andrew emphasizes the importance of public service and its intersection with private sector expertise in driving impactful change. He shares his personal journey from the private sector to leading a state-sponsored investment fund and offers advice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the world of sustainable finance. Tune in to learn how the NY Green Bank is leading the charge in clean energy funding and how you can be part of this transformative movement. We were pleased to host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewckessler/Visit our website: https://insidersguidetoenergy.com/

In this episode of the Insider's Guide to Energy, we sit down with John Skrinar, partner at Cresta, to discuss the critical role of renewable fuels in the energy transition. As the world shifts towards sustainable energy, John shares his expertise on the investment strategies that are driving the adoption of low-carbon fuels like renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Discover how Cresta is leveraging infrastructure and innovation to support a cleaner, greener future. We delve into the complexities of the regulatory landscape, examining how policies like the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) and tax credits are shaping the market. John provides insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by these regulations, highlighting the importance of understanding the evolving legal framework for successful investment in clean energy technologies. Whether you're an investor looking for the next big opportunity, an entrepreneur in the clean energy space, or simply interested in the future of sustainable fuels, this episode offers valuable perspectives. Learn about the future of hydrogen, the role of carbon capture, and how private equity is driving the energy transition. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the forces at play in the shift towards a sustainable energy economy. Meet our Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-skrinar/Visit our Website: https://insidersguidetoenergy.com/

What are the challenges faced when financing sustainable infrastructure projects? The scale and urgency of the transformation required to fight to fight climate change has never been more clear. In this episode hosted by Silicon Valley Bank (a Division of First Citizens Bank) Climate Tech & Sustainability SVP Maggie Wong, Banyan Infrastructure Head of Product Katie Gardner speaks on her unique background in mining engineering and how it informed her approach to problem-solving as a product manager. She describes Banyan's mission to solve challenges around financing sustainable infrastructure projects through streamlining complex processes. The conversation explores opportunities and challenges in tackling climate change through technology and mobilizing capital for climate solutions.

Sybil Derrible, Professor of Urban Engineering at the University of Illinois Chicago, discusses how cities can be engineered to be more livable with sustainable infrastructure. He compares American cities to European ones, and talks about water and energy supplies, transportation and traffic, and education.

Ben Hubbard is CEO and Co-founder at Nexus PMG, an infrastructure advisory and project development organization dedicated to reducing carbon intensity and enhancing resource efficiency. Ben co-founded Nexus PMG in 2013 after multiple years of working on complex metal refining facilities in locations including Mongolia and Saudi Arabia.In this episode, Cody and Ben cover how Nexus PMG got started, what key risks the firm explores when assessing a project for development capital, Ben's advice for infrastructure-heavy startups as they scale, and how he sees the next five years of infrastructure deployment playing out. And they cover a whole lot in between, including the criticality of feedstocks, the role of insurance, opportunities for private equity, and first-of-a-kind project finance.In this episode, we cover: [01:56]: Ben's early mining experience in extreme climates during the 2007 recession[05:24]: Nexus PMG's founding story[11:51]: Abandoning all fossil-fuel projects and full transition to low-carbon focus[17:01]: Observations on declining investment returns in wind and solar projects[20:39]: Challenges in variability and quality of sustainable materials[27:15]: Turnaround of a distressed biomass plant in British Columbia[30:08]: Launch of Nexus Development Capital for scaling businesses[36:04]: Recent shifts from strategics investing to meet ESG goals[38:17]: Why team dynamics are critical to project success[42:50]: Trend forecasting in sustainable projects: hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuels[46:01]: Ben's optimism about capital deployment in the next decadeEpisode recorded on Jan 8, 2024 (Published on Feb 5, 2024) Get connected with MCJ: Jason Jacobs X / LinkedInCody Simms X / LinkedInMCJ Podcast / Collective / YouTube*If you liked this episode, please consider giving us a review! You can also reach us via email at content@mcjcollective.com, where we encourage you to share your feedback on episodes and suggestions for future topics or guests.

A multi-decade opportunity for Insurance Investment Portfolios Today's topic is sustainable infrastructure credit. The time is now a multi-decade opportunity for insurance investment portfolios, according to our guest, Jorge Camiña, partner, head of Denham Sustainable Infrastructure Credit.  

In the latest episode of Climate Confident, I have an insightful conversation with Taco Engelaar, Senior Vice President at Neara, about the critical role of digitalisation in the energy sector. Taco highlights how Neara's software creates digital twins of electricity grids, allowing for more efficient management and capacity analysis.We delve into the complexities of expanding grid infrastructure to support the increasing influx of renewable energy sources. Taco offers a detailed analysis of how digital modelling can enhance existing grid capabilities, potentially doubling capacity without the need for physical expansion—a significant step towards meeting our net-zero targets.The discussion also covers the potential of interconnected and smart grids to improve energy distribution and address the intermittency challenges of renewable sources. Taco shares practical examples of how Neara's technology is being used to predict and manage grid performance under various environmental stressors, such as storms and floods.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between technology and sustainability, and how strategic digitalisation within the grid infrastructure is pivotal to achieving a resilient and sustainable energy future.And don't forget to check out the video version of this episode on YouTubeSupport the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Hal Good Jerry Sweeney Christophe Kottelat Andreas Werner Richard Delevan Anton Chupilko Devaang Bhatt Stephen Carroll William Brent 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.ContactIf 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. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper

In our final episode of the year, join host Matthew Schnurr as he welcomes Andrew Vasila, Senior Investment Analyst on the Mackenzie Fixed Income Team, and special guest, Lori Kerr, CEO of FinDev Canada, to discuss their biggest takeaways from COP28 and what the future holds for sustainable infrastructure and investing. This episode was recorded on December 15, 2023.

Global energy-related CO2 emissions surged to a record high in 2022, marking a concerning milestone in our collective carbon footprint. In this episode, Robert Murphy, CEO of Othersphere, joins us to discuss the pressing need to accelerate sustainable infrastructure deployment amid these increasing emissions.  Robert's extensive background — from global organizations like the World Bank, Enbridge, and Chevron to tech startups such as Aclima — has positioned him as a visionary leader in this domain. He delves into Othersphere's mission, a spatial computation platform revolutionizing the identification of optimal sites for zero to low greenhouse gas infrastructure, with an initial focus on the pivotal role of hydrogen.  Drawing from his experience, Robert shares how Othersphere's spatial economics platform empowers project developers, operators, and financiers to expedite deploying more environmentally beneficial projects, streamlining team efforts, origination, and diligence while enhancing stakeholder alignment. In this conversation, Marco and Robert explore the innovative strides Othersphere is making to reshape our approach to sustainable infrastructure, mitigating carbon impact and propelling the world towards a more eco-friendly future. Follow us on Instagram: @someonelikeyoupodcast. 

In this episode of Technically Human, I sit down with Dr. Julie Albright to talk about her new book: Left to Their Own Devices: How Digital Natives Are Reshaping the American Dream. We talk about the way that digital culture is changing the American Dream for the next generation, we discuss how the internet is changing political culture, and Julie explains how our connections to our devices are changing the way we seek partnerships, form relationships, and how romance has been gamified in our world of online dating. Dr. Julie Albright is a Sociologist specializing in digital culture and communications. She has a Masters Degree in Social and Systemic Studies and a Dual Doctorate in Sociology and Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. Dr. Albright is currently a Lecturer in the departments of Applied Psychology and Engineering at USC, where She teaches master's level courses on the Psychology of Interactive Technologies and Sustainable Infrastructure.  Dr. Albright's research has focused on the growing intersection of technology and social / behavioral systems. She is also a sought after keynote speaker, and has given talks for major data center and energy conferences including SAP for Utilities, IBM Global, Data Center Dynamics and the Dept. of Defense. She has appeared as an expert on national media including the Today Show, CNN, NBC Nightly News, CBS, the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, NPR Radio and many others.  Her new book, Left to Their Own Devices: How Digital Natives Are Reshaping the American Dream (Random House/ Prometheus press), investigates the impacts of mobile - social- – digital technologies on society. 

In this week's episode of the Climate Confident podcast I sat down with Peter Bachmann, the managing director of the Sustainable Infrastructure division at Gresham House, and let me tell you, this conversation is a goldmine for anyone passionate about building a sustainable future.

We've got a good one for you today, the heavyweight edition. Today we're going to be talking about the role of sustainable infrastructure in private credit. And in particular, how it applies in an insurance framework. And we're joined by a serious panel here. We've got Brad Dyslin, who is the executive vice president and global chief investment officer, and also president of Aflac Asset Management. And we're also joined by the person who was in the seat prior to you, we've got Eric Kirsch, who is the former executive vice president, global chief investment officer, and president of Aflac Asset Management. And last but certainly not least, we're joined by Justin DeAngelis, who is the partner and co-head of sustainable infrastructure at Denham Capital. 

In this episode, we talk with Lorin Bosoc, CEng MICE, a Chartered Civil Engineer and Registered Ground Engineering Professional at Atkins Ground Engineering and Tunneling about the challenges and opportunities of working on ground engineering projects in different regions, the importance of mentorship for aspiring engineers, and strategies for prioritizing employee well-being. ***The video version […] The post TGEP 083: The Vital Role of Ground Engineering in Fostering Safe and Sustainable Infrastructure appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Guest host Ragunath Ramanathan, Chief Revenue Officer, SAP BTP, talks with Omar Mitchell, Vice President of Sustainable Infrastructure and Growth Initiatives at the NHL, to discuss why the NHL is dedicated to environmental stewardship. With the help of NHL Venue Metrics, they can measure and analyze the carbon footprint generated by all their Clubs and arenas across various areas, including energy and water use, waste, and recycling. Those insights inform decisions which will help protect the environment, and therefore the game, for future generations.