Episódios

  • In this episode of the Climate Correction podcast, we are excited to feature Stanley Wang as part of our Summer Youth Activist series. Stanley, a recent graduate of William & Mary with a major in Economics and a minor in Mathematics, shares his journey from college volunteer to anti-poverty advocate in Boston. Drawing on his background in the Citizens Climate Lobby as well as the Carbon Fee and Dividend Movement, Wang offers insightful perspectives on the importance of bipartisan cooperation and the critical role of youth in advancing environmental economics. Tune in to learn about his experiences, the state of the carbon tax movement, and how you can get involved in making a positive impact on climate policy.

    Show Notes

    Guest: Stanley Wang

    Series: Summer Youth Activist

    Episode Highlights:

    How Things Started: Stanley discusses his initial involvement in climate activism during his college years.

    Opportunity and Perceived Need:

    The bipartisan agreement among youth, economists, and academics on carbon taxes.

    The lack of awareness about carbon taxes and feasible directions in youth activism.

    The bipartisan appeal of the Carbon Fee and Dividend initiative.

    How We Are Different: An exploration of what sets the Carbon Fee and Dividend Movement apart from other environmental initiatives.

    Values/Theory of Action: Understanding the core values and theoretical foundations that drive the movement.

    State of the Movement: A look at the progress made so far and current efforts within the movement.

    How Viewers Can Get Involved: Practical steps for listeners to take action and support the cause.

    Additional Resources:

    Instagram: Follow us at @carbonfeeanddividend.

    Website: Visit cfdmovement.org for more information.

    Write to Congress: Encourage legislative action at bit.ly/writecongresshere.

    Merchandise: Support the movement by purchasing stickers, t-shirts, and more at cfdmovement.org/merch.

    Join Us: Students can become part of the initiative at cfdmovement.org/join.

  • Climate Correction Podcast – How the Skies Are Changing

    In this episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we explore the evolving skies and their impact on air travel, featuring firsthand insights from experienced pilot Anthony Giuffre. As climate change intensifies, so do its effects on aviation. Anthony shares his observations of increasing turbulence, the need for longer runways, and the rising challenges that pilots face due to warming temperatures.

    The conversation delves into the direct relationship between climate change and air travel, highlighting how rising temperatures are causing more frequent and severe turbulence. Anthony also discusses the aviation industry's ongoing efforts to adapt, including the development of sustainable aviation fuels and the push towards electrification. However, skepticism remains about the viability of biofuels and other emerging solutions.

    Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how climate change is altering the very skies we fly in, leading to increased operational costs, changes in airport infrastructure, and more unpredictable weather patterns. Join us as we navigate these turbulent times and explore the necessary steps to ensure safer and more sustainable air travel for the future.

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  • Healthy Farms, Healthy Bays with Ernie Shea

    In this episode of the Climate Correction Podcast, we dive into the Healthy Farms, Healthy Bays initiative with Ernie Shea, President of Solutions from the Land. The conversation underscores the critical role of sustainable agriculture in achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and preserving Florida’s aquatic resources.

    Ernie emphasizes that modern agriculture must go beyond food and fiber production. He highlights the need for farmer-led leadership to be at the forefront of policy changes and the importance of valuing and compensating farmers for the ecosystem services they provide.

    Listeners will learn about actionable steps being taken to support sustainable farming practices, the formation of coalitions to advocate for policy changes, and the opportunities to engage with and support ongoing projects through the Solutions from the Land initiative. Join us to explore how healthy farms can lead to healthy bays and a healthier planet.

    Links:

    Report PDF: https://www.solutionsfromtheland.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SfL-HealthyFarms-HealthyBays_FL-online.pdf

    About the Report: https://www.solutionsfromtheland.org/blog/florida-healthy-farms-healthy-bays-initiative-releases-new-report/

  • Podcast Description:
    Welcome to Climate Correction, the podcast dedicated to exploring innovative solutions to the climate crisis. In this episode, we are joined by Maxwell Brodie, the visionary founder of Rain. Since its inception in 2019, Rain has been at the forefront of using autonomous technology to tackle one of the most pressing climate challenges: wildfires. Max shares the inspiration behind Rain's groundbreaking wildfire mission autonomy system, which aims to dramatically reduce response times and prevent small ignitions from becoming catastrophic fires. He delves into the growing severity of wildfires and their devastating impact on lives, economies, and the environment. We also explore how Rain’s cutting-edge technology is poised to revolutionize wildfire response and management. Join us for a deep dive into how innovation and technology can create a safer, more sustainable future.

    Show Notes:
    1. **Introduction to Maxwell Brodie and his company, Rain**
    - Background on Max's career and his commitment to creating positive social outcomes.
    - Overview of Rain's mission and its founding in 2019.

    2. **Inspiration Behind Rain**
    - Max discusses the motivations and challenges that led to the creation of Rain.
    - The increasing frequency and severity of climate disasters, particularly wildfires.

    3. **The Problem of Wildfires**
    - Statistics on recent wildfire impacts, including economic damage and loss of life.
    - The role of wildfires in reversing climate progress and increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

    4. **Technological Solutions and Rain’s Approach**
    - How Rain's autonomous aircraft can pre-position in high-risk areas for rapid response.
    - The importance of early detection and quick suppression in managing wildfires.

    5. **Autonomous Technology and Its Benefits**
    - Enhancing operational safety and efficiency in wildfire response.
    - Reducing pilot workload and increasing situational awareness through autonomy.

    6. **Successful Demonstrations and Future Prospects**
    - Details on Rain's collaboration with Sikorsky and successful autonomous Black Hawk helicopter tests.
    - The potential for scaling these solutions to provide significant economic and environmental benefits.

    7. **Reasons for Optimism**
    - The economic and societal benefits of reducing wildfire response times.
    - The vision for a future where catastrophic wildfires are prevented, and forest management is improved.

    8. **Conclusion**
    - Max’s hopeful outlook for the future and the role of technology in mitigating wildfire risks.
    - Final thoughts on the importance of continued innovation and support for climate solutions.

  • Today's guest is Sofia Leon, Climate Innovation and Fundraising Lead for The Nature Conservancy, Florida Chapter. She joined the organization in 2017 and splits her time between the philanthropy and climate strategy teams. She is the critical leader and relationship builder in connecting donors and partners with the TNC staff, related to the Florida chapter's climate and fundraising efforts. She manages the Miami Council, which is an advisory group made up of professionals who catalyze climate innovation in Miami.

    She recently helped produce a groundbreaking new study on the economic impact of decarbonizing Florida.

    The overall goal of the study is to dispel the myth that decarbonization will cost Floridians more than it will benefit us.

    Net Zero Power Systems and a Net Zero Economy will allow Florida to prosper, driving continued progress and growth for generations to come.

    Report offers a positive vision for Florida’s short- and long-term future: Florida will continue to grow as a hub for energy and manufacturing sector, a national thought-leader in technology and engineering and a profitable place for investors and innovators to start companies, expand ideas and collaborate.

    Florida is already making progress and continued investments will have positive long term and short-term impacts.

    Continued energy investments will create higher-paying jobs, offering boundless opportunities for workers of all skills and education levels.

    Lower consumer costs and better opportunities afforded by decarbonization will catalyze increased consumer spending, including in-state economic activity.

    Here is a piece of news about it: https://floridapolitics.com/archives/664839-report-net-zero-is-possible-and-good-for-economic-growth/#:~:text=Economic%20decarbonization%20in%20Florida%20under,could%20redirect%20into%20other%20sectors.

  • Welcome to the second episode of our Youth Activist Series on the Climate Correction Podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have Sean Schrader, a 22-year-old from Clearwater, Florida, joining us. Sean is in the final year of his MBA program at the University of South Florida and has been deeply involved in sustainability efforts throughout the Tampa Bay region. Sean has served as the District Office Manager for former US Congressman Charlie Crist, who was a guest on our show in 2022. Additionally, Sean led sustainability initiatives as the Campus Governor at USF St. Petersburg, including the installation of a WATERGOAT device in the St. Petersburg marina, recognized by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research.

    In our conversation, Sean shares his journey and the decisions that have guided his clear personal mission in sustainability and community involvement. He discusses how his passion for sustainable development began with the Millennium Fellowship and emphasizes the importance of local action in practicing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sean also highlights the significance of storytelling in climate advocacy, helping others understand the challenges we face. He introduces his project focused on promoting sustainable practices during the holiday season, aiming to reduce waste from gift wrapping and excess food.

    Sean offers insights into overcoming roadblocks and provides practical advice for students and young adults looking to get involved in climate activism. He stresses the power of taking small steps to create significant change in our environmental footprint and shares his hope for a future where people worldwide are more conscious of their impact on the planet. Join us as Sean Schrader shares his experiences, insights, and actionable advice for making a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips for anyone looking to contribute to a sustainable future. Tune in now to the Climate Correction Podcast!

  • Welcome to the Climate Correction Podcast! Today marks the first episode of our special series highlighting motivated and effective youth activists who are smart, hungry for change, and dedicated to growing up in healthy, hospitable environments. Our guest today is Sofia Arnau, a 17-year-old junior at Miami Palmetto Senior High School and a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability. As Vice President of the Miami Youth Climate Summit, Sofia leads efforts to raise awareness and mobilize youth for climate action. She is also the Consulting Director for Turtle Team, protecting local wildlife, and a Historian for the Science National Honor Society. Sofia’s dedication extends to creating TerraServe, a climate organization fostering community-based environmental projects in Miami. Join us as Sofia shares her journey, discusses overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome, and offers advice on getting started in climate activism. Sofia’s inspiring mission is to create a sustainable future and inspire others to follow their passions.

  • Splitting Water: All About Hydrogen with Tianyi Sun, EDF

    Splitting Water: All About Hydrogen with Tianyi Sun, EDF

    Dr. Tianyi Sun is a climate scientist at the Environmental Defense Fund. This nonpartisan, nonprofit organization relies on science and economics to tackle climate change and other pressing environmental issues of our day. Tianyi holds a Ph.D. in Climate Dynamics from the University of Texas at Austin and did her undergraduate studies in Atmospheric Sciences at Nanjing University, China. Her work at EDF focuses on the impacts of short-lived climate pollutants, such as methane and hydrogen. She explores how their emissions and mitigation affect the climate system and the role of short-lived gases in net zero emissions pathways. She also leads EDF’s hydrogen science work on hydrogen emissions measurements and their climate implications.

    Dr. Sun walks us through a very helpful Hydrogen 101. Learn why hydrogen is the new rising star in the climate mitigation world.

    Hydrogen is emerging as a pivotal solution for climate mitigation, offering both promise and challenges. Its versatility as a clean energy carrier enables decarbonization across transportation, industry, and power generation sectors. Utilizing green hydrogen produced from renewable sources reduces carbon emissions significantly. Benefits include zero emissions, energy storage capabilities, and fostering energy independence.

    However, challenges loom, notably regarding cost, scalability, and infrastructure development. Risks encompass safety concerns, primarily related to hydrogen's flammability and transportation hazards. Addressing these challenges demands concerted efforts in technological advancement, policy support, and investment. Hydrogen stands as a potent ally in combating climate change, albeit with caveats requiring careful navigation.

    Learn more here:

    EDF’s 2022 award-winning paper on the climate implications of hydrogen: https://www.edf.org/blog/2022/03/07/hydrogen-climate-solution-leaks-must-be-tackled

    EDF’s latest study on the implications of overlooked factors in climate assessments of hydrogen Statement: https://www.edf.org/media/hydrogen-could-have-much-bigger-climate-impact-most-estimates-study-shows

    Link to the full study: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c09030

  • In the quest to mitigate climate change, transitioning industries to zero-carbon practices stands out as a paramount challenge. In this episode of the Climate Correction podcast, we delve into this crucial topic with Jeff Rissman, Senior Director of Industry Program at Energy Innovation. Rissman, with his extensive background in environmental science and policy, provides valuable insights into the complexities and opportunities inherent in this transition. At the heart of our discussion is exploring what the zero-carbon industry entails and why it's imperative for combating climate change. We examine the diverse sectors within the industry and their significant contributions to carbon emissions, highlighting the urgent need for decarbonization.

    Throughout the conversation, Rissman illuminates the challenges faced by industries in adopting zero-carbon practices, from technological limitations to regulatory hurdles. Yet, amidst these challenges lie vast opportunities for innovation and economic growth. By embracing sustainable technologies and fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and government, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future. Policy and regulation play a pivotal role in driving this transition, and Rissman underscores the importance of effective policies and strategies to incentivize sustainable industry practices worldwide.

    He emphasized the critical role of renewable energy in powering the zero-carbon industry and the necessity of collective action to accelerate progress. As we navigate the complexities of this transition, it's crucial to remain committed to collaboration and innovation. Together, we can chart a path toward a zero-carbon industry and achieve sustainable prosperity for future generations.

    We heard an exciting announcement in the episode. Jeffrey Rissman has just released his new book, "Zero Carbon Industry: Transformative Technologies and Policies to Achieve Sustainable Prosperity." Available now on Amazon and Columbia University Press (link below), this book delves deeper into the strategies and technologies needed to drive the transition to a zero-carbon industry.

    As a special offer for our listeners, enjoy a 20% discount on zerocarbonindustry.com. Let's continue working together to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

    Show links and speaker bio:

    ZeroCarbonIndustry.com

    Twitter

    LinkedIn

    JEFFREY RISSMAN is the senior director of the industry program at Energy Innovation, a nonpartisan energy and climate policy think tank. His work focuses on technologies and politics to achieve net zero industrial greenhouse gas emissions. He is the co-author of Designing Climate Solutions: A Policy Guide for Low-Carbon Energy (2018).

  • VISTA Award Presentation- Evaluation of Plant Varieties for Green Roofs in South Florida

    Description

    Green roofs are innovative roofing systems that support plant growth on buildings. They replace traditional roofing materials with a layer of soil for vegetation, offering various benefits such as mitigating the heat island effect, reducing stormwater runoff and sequestering carbon. However, implementing green roofs in the challenging climate of Miami and South Florida is a formidable task due to high humidity, extreme heat, desiccating winds, and hurricanes. The urgency is underscored by Miami's ranking as the third-worst Urban Heat Island Effect city in the US. The intensity of the problem is evident by the recent appointment of the world's first Chief Heat Officer for Miami-Dade County, underlining the severity of Miami's Urban Heat Island Effect. This problem affects residents, and addressing it through greening the city, including green roofs, is crucial. This project aims to recommend resilient plant species for South Florida green roofs, focusing on their carbon sequestration capabilities and reducing the urban heat island effect. This initiative's significance lies in mitigating climate change effects, fostering sustainable urban ecosystems, reducing carbon footprints, enhancing biodiversity, and improving urban well-being. Recognizing the urgent need for climate solutions, the project seeks to provide actionable insights for addressing South Florida's pressing climate issues.

    Speakers

    Ivan Oyege, Florida International University , Ph.D. Candidate

    Priyanka Belbase, Florida International University, Graduate Teaching Assistant

    Moses Kiwanuka, Florida International University, Graduate Teaching Assistant

    Jordan Prats, Florida International University , Ph.D Candidate

  • Empowering Youth for Climate Action: Community Solutions in Action

    Description

    This panel will focus on the vital role of youth in implementing effective climate solutions within their communities. As the group who is most impacted by climate issues, yet having contributed the least to the problem, centering the voices of youth climate leaders is critical for equity. Highlighting the urgency of climate change, youth climate advocates will share their perspectives on the climate crisis and provide an overview of their climate initiatives to combat environmental challenges at the local level. From mangrove restoration to community gardens, the panel will showcase a range of grassroots efforts led by passionate young activists. Panelists will discuss the challenges youth face in mobilizing communities, emphasizing the need for collaboration with local stakeholders, educational institutions, and government bodies. They will also highlight the role of educational programs such as the FXB Climate Advocates program and others to support emerging leaders in their climate endeavors.

    Speakers

    Karina Weinstein, FXB, Program Strategy and Innovation Director

    Sofia Arnau, TerraServe, Inc., Founder & President

    Avi Gulati, FXB USA Climate Advocates

  • WWF Presents Food Waste Warriors: OCPS and South FL

    Description

    Join WWF's Food Waste Warriors team as they dive into their collaboration with K-12 school food waste leaders in 5 Orange County Public Schools and expand efforts to South Florida.

    Speakers

    Mary Chandler, World Wildlife Fund, Food Waste Warriors

    Dan St Onge, OCPS

    Elaine Fiore, Broward Schools

  • Carbon credit markets are a key market-based solution for accelerating global climate progress while restoring nature and creating a more just world. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) supports effective carbon pricing across the global economy; however, it will take years to build political support in countries across the world. Yet, to meet global climate goals, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) calls for urgent progress today. The goal is a 45% reduction in global emissions by 2030, which is equivalent to eliminating the annual emissions of the United Kingdom every week for the next seven years. In response, companies and governments are ramping up action in a race toward net-zero emissions by 2050.

    There is a massive ambition gap between the current pace of decarbonization and the pace needed to reach net zero by 2050. While carbon markets are a key tool in helping close this ambition gap, they have also been subject to criticism. In this session, TNC Managing Director of Carbon Markets Cam Moore will discuss why carbon credit markets are essential to closing the ambition gap, the urgent need to build a carbon markets Version 2.0; and the potential for this enhanced approach to create a cleaner, greener, and more just world.

    Speakers Campbell Moore, The Nature Conservancy, Managing Director, Global Carbon Markets Sofia Leon, The Nature Conservancy , Climate Innovation & Fundraising Lead
  • Reaching the Peak of the Summit: How Can Climate Events Create Change?

    Description

    Whether it’s COP, Climate Week NYC, or Earth Day, summits and convenings have become a major way to accelerate climate action. But how can we shift the focus from mere discussion to tangible action? Adam Lake gives his reflections on how climate events have changed since he joined Climate Group as Head of Climate Week NYC in 2018 and will discuss how grassroots campaigns, activists, and NGOs can better engage with key moments to push through more meaningful change. The session will also explore how to spot and avoid greenwashing, the importance of inclusivity, and how to create a big impact on a small budget.

    Speakers

    Adam Lake, Climate Group, Head of Engagement, North America

    Alejandro Delgado, VoLo Foundation, Editor in Chief

  • Florida's Climate Future: Sunshine State or Stormy Situation?

    2:20 PM – 2:40 PM

    Description

    Florida families are already weathering the effects of climate change. Recognizing that knowledge is power, this panel will share stories of impact and showcase how this new tool can deepen understanding of how heat, flooding, and volatile energy costs risks vary and compound economic risk across their specific communities and what they can do to take charge of Florida's Climate Future.

    Check out the tool: https://floridasclimatefuture.org/

    Speakers

    Dawn Shirreffs, Environmental Defense Fund , Florida Director

    Claudia Navarro, WeCount!, Co-Executive Director

    Jonathan Alingu, Central Florida Jobs With Justice, Co-Executive Director

    Yoca Arditi Rocha, CLEO INSTITUTE, Executive Director

  • Climate Correction™: What Does It Mean to Put a Price on Carbon?

    This panel will discuss what it means to put a price on carbon, why this is important to drive climate action and provide insights into efforts being made in the U.S. and around the world by governments and businesses.

    Speakers:

    Angela Churie Kallhauge

    Executive Vice President, Impact, Environmental Defense Fund

    Angela Churie Kallhauge is the Executive Vice President, Impact at Environmental Defense Fund (EDF). Her work is focused on using inclusive processes and economic approaches to achieve ambitious climate solutions that deliver equitable benefits to people around the world. Angela joined EDF from the World Bank where she served as the head of the Secretariat of the Carbon Pricing Leadership Coalition (CPLC) for five years. Before that she was at the Swedish Energy Agency where she worked for 14 years on climate change, energy and development issues. During her time at the Swedish Energy Agency, she worked on carbon market development issues, including portfolio development and capacity building in developing countries. She also served as the EU lead negotiator on adaptation and resilience issues under the UNFCCC for close to a decade and represented Sweden in the Adaptation Fund Board where she led the work on accreditation for direct access. Angela also draws experience from the International Renewable Energy Agency, where she spent a couple of years leading the work to develop a climate change work program that places renewable energy action as a key part of climate change strategies. Prior to her engagement at the Swedish Agency, Angela spent close to a decade working at the Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden and in Zimbabwe and Kenya with civil society organizations on climate, energy and development policy.

    Dirk Forrister

    IETA President and CEO

    Dirk is the CEO of IETA, a business association of carbon market professionals dedicated to delivering the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. IETA’s 330 member companies operate in every carbon market in the world. Dirk’s prior roles include Managing Director at Natsource, a 1.4 billion carbon fund management firm and Energy Director, Environmental Defense Fund. Earlier, he served as Chair of the White House Climate Change Taskforce in the Clinton Administration and as Assistant Secretary of Energy for Congressional Affairs.

    Holly Pearen

    Lead Counsel, Global Climate Cooperation, Environmental Defense Fund

    Holly Pearen is Lead Counsel for EDF’s Global Climate Cooperation Team where she helps teams develop and execute legal and regulatory strategies to achieve climate objectives. Her work focuses on addressing price transparency and equity in voluntary carbon markets through tailored and predictable regulatory oversight and private law solutions. Prior to joining EDF Holly represented banking and financial clients in litigation involving natural resource assets and worked as an Attorney-Advisor for the Department of the Interior, Southwest Regional Office of the Solicitor. She has a J.D., with focus on Environmental Law from Lewis & Clark Law School, an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and studied at the London School of Economics.

  • Welcome to Climate Correction™ 2024

    WELCOME TO CLIMATE CORRECTION™ CONFERENCE 2024: BRIDGING SOLUTIONS, IGNITING CHANGE

    On March 7-8, 2024, VoLo Foundation proudly hosted the 6th annual Climate Correction Conference in Orlando, FL. As the premier annual climate action conference in the U.S., this event focused on driving innovative solutions to address climate change.

    “Bridging Solutions, Igniting Change” underscores the collaborative and proactive nature of Climate Correction. It highlights the importance of working together across disciplines and geographical boundaries to develop comprehensive solutions and, most importantly, to turn ideas into actionable change. Participants can expect a dynamic and engaging event that not only discusses the challenges posed by climate change but actively seeks to drive positive and transformative outcomes.

    If you missed the live event, listen to all the main stage panels on the podcast!

    Emcee: Irene Sans, Bilingual Meteorologist / Editorial Manager, Weather & Radar USA / Pelmorex

    Welcome by: David S. Vogel and Thais Lopez Vogel, Founders of VoLo Foundation

  • Dr. Mark Hyman, Ph.D., and David S. Vogel come together in this titillating conversation about the impacts of climate and environmental sustainability on human health. We cover topics such as regenerative agriculture, nutrition, animal protein - especially beef and cattle- increases in pollen- particularly PM2.5- and other air pollutants. As always, we take a solutions-focused approach to these issues. If you're seeking cutting-edge research for your health, this is the show for you.

    Mark Hyman, MD is a practicing family physician and an internationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of Functional Medicine. He is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, founder and senior advisor of the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, a fifteen-time New York Times best-selling author, and board president of clinical affairs at The Institute for Functional Medicine.

    He is the founder and chairman of the Food Fix Campaign, dedicated to transforming our food and agriculture system through policy. Additionally, he is a co-founder and the chief medical officer of Function Health. Dr. Hyman also hosts one of the leading health podcasts, The Doctor’s Farmacy, with over 200 million downloads. Furthermore, he has an upcoming book release this summer called Young Forever Cookbook.

    Dr. Hyman is a regular medical contributor to several television shows and networks, including CBS This Morning, Today, Good Morning America, The View, Fox, and CNN.

    Young Forever Cookbook - releasing on June 4, 2024

    The Doctor’s Farmacy

    Social Media Links:

    Instagram - @drmarkhyman

    Facebook - @drmarkhyman

    Twitter - @drmarkhyman

    Website:

    https://drhyman.com

    David S. Vogel is a data scientist who has earned international recognition for his predictive modeling accuracy. He is a multi-winner of the prestigious KDD Cup and the Heritage Health Prize in 2013. As the founder and CEO of Voloridge Investment Management, LLC, an award-winning quantitative hedge fund, David has been expertly quoted in Bloomberg, Barron’s, and other publications on charitable and financial topics.

    David is the co-founder, trustee, and chief scientist of VoLo Foundation. Through research funding and collaborations with top scientists, David applies his data modeling expertise to assist with cutting-edge research that has the potential to accelerate climate solutions, impact education, and optimize health to maximize longevity.

    Moreover, David currently serves as a board member of the Environmental Defense Fund, JUST Capital, and Amplio. He is also involved with the Climate-Related Market Risk Subcommittee at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

  • VOLO FOUNDATION IS A PRIVATE FAMILY ORGANIZATION THAT EXISTS TO ACCELERATE CHANGE AND GLOBAL IMPACT BY SUPPORTING SCIENCE-BASED CLIMATE SOLUTIONS, ENHANCING EDUCATION, AND IMPROVING HEALTH.

    We believe that developing and sharing knowledge through facts and data accelerates positive global change. Through original research and analysis, and in collaboration with philanthropic and academic partners, we aim to enrich the lives of individuals, strengthen communities, and educate future generations. We track our progress using a variety of qualitative and quantitative approaches and we support programs that generate measurable, meaningful, and sustainable results.

    Our Founders, David S. Vogel and Thais Lopez Vogel, have maintained a personal philanthropic portfolio for many years, largely comprised of public health and education programs. As they became more informed and noticed evident changes in the environment and climate, they set out to answer the hard questions by funding projects aimed at solving this major issue. In 2014, David and Thais formed VoLo Foundation. David, an MIT graduate, and Thais, a Venezuelan-born attorney, are the visionaries and heartbeat of VoLo. Together they built our team. They brought together some of the smartest brains and declared to put these top scientific minds to work.

    In 2019, David and his team of experts took action to leverage the Foundation’s data science expertise to serve new purposes in the domain of health. Through the health research program, the team has extended their focus to longevity and wellness data in seeking new paths to reduce hallmarks of aging, prevent diseases, and improve wellness metrics.

    Meet the VoLo Team - We are scientists, lawyers, philanthropic professionals, community leaders, and innovative thinkers. Half of us focus on quantifying research and results, while the other half engage with the community. We are deeply passionate about our planet's health and wellness and believe that data-driven research can accelerate change in our world. Please tune in to hear how VoLo has impacted members of our team. Meet the VoLo Team here: https://volofoundation.org/mission/
  • Circular economy and the acceleration of carbon removal

    What do you know about circular economy and the magic of biochar?

    A circular economy is an economic system aimed at minimizing waste and making the most of resources. In a circular economy, resources are kept in use for as long as possible, extracting the maximum value from them, and then recovering and regenerating products and materials at the end of each service life. This contrasts with the traditional linear economy model, which follows a "take-make-dispose" pattern.

    The circular economy is based on several principles, including designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. It encourages practices such as recycling, reuse, remanufacturing, and the use of renewable energy sources.

    Biochar is a type of charcoal produced from biomass (organic matter) through pyrolysis, which involves heating the biomass without oxygen. Biochar is known for its potential benefits in agriculture, carbon sequestration, and soil improvement. When added to soil, biochar can enhance soil fertility, water retention, and nutrient availability. It also can sequester atmospheric carbon dioxide, helping mitigate climate change.

    The "magic" of biochar lies in its ability to provide multiple environmental benefits simultaneously. By converting organic waste into biochar instead of letting it decompose, we not only avoid the release of greenhouse gases such as methane, but we also create a valuable soil amendment that can improve agricultural productivity and help restore degraded soils. This aligns with the principles of the circular economy by turning waste into a resource and promoting sustainable land management practices.

    This episode breaks this down from an insider’s perspective.

    Jason Dodier, Co-Founder of the GRAIN Ecosystem, is a visionary American business professional committed to revolutionizing carbon dioxide removal global project development through digitization, transparency, and increased access to capital. Based in New York City, he played a key role in advancing Energy as a Service microgrid in the U.S., notably contributing to the groundbreaking JFK's New Terminal One Microgrid.

    Drawing from a rich and varied background encompassing operations, business development, marketing, and sales management, Jason spent more than a decade living and working internationally in the dynamic landscapes of North America, the Middle East, and Europe with Schneider Electric, SE. His tenure was characterized by a steadfast commitment to hastening climate transformation and advancing energy efficiency all over the world.

    Beyond his professional endeavors, Jason co-founded Fountainhead Rhode Island, a forward-thinking non-profit. His dual role as a trailblazer in sustainable energy and a force behind transformative non-profit initiatives reflects his commitment to shaping a more sustainable and progressive future.

    Connection to Jason:

    Twitter: @J_Dodier

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasondodier/

    Email: [email protected]

    Be sure to check out all the links below to maximize the opportunities available to you in this incredible space.

    Regarding biochar, here are the resources we like to reference when looking at the carbon removal market from the historical, current, future, and potential upside opportunities:

    Historical: 2022 Year in Review from an aggregator of Carbon Removal (CDR) transactions - https://medium.com/cdr-fyi/cdr-fyi-2022-year-in-review-d095acd9a1a0

    Pricing: The registry/certifier owned by Nasdaq called Puro Earth, and the associated price index (CORCX / CORCCHAR) - https://www.nasdaq.com/solutions/carbon-removal-marketplace

    Future: BloombergNEF report on Long-Term Carbon Offset Outlook (Full document available for purchase from Bloomberg) - https://about.bnef.com/blog/carbon-offset-prices-could-increase-fifty-fold-by-2050/?ref=ctvc.co

    The Upside: John Doerr estimates that we will need 4 gigatons of removal (8x Bloomberg), equivalent to $560 billion (about $1,700 per person in the US) market size (compared to our conservative estimate of $70 billion (about $220 per person in the US)) - https://speedandscale.com/okrs/6-0-remove-carbon/

    Carbon Pricing

    Live Carbon Removal Pricing - https://www.cdr.fyi/

    “A Year In Review”, Carbon Removal Pricing 2023 - https://www.cdr.fyi/blog/2023-year-in-review

    This is the single best overview of what is going on in decarbonization. 200 slides of easily understandable informative graphs: https://www.nathanielbullard.com/presentations

    USDA Biochar Grants

    Example Code 808 – California Scenarios (Payment Schedule) – Look for Code 808 to see the payment rate per Cubic Yard, which the NRCS will reimburse a purchaser at - https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2022-11/California-EQIP-23-payment-rates.pdf

    Matt Flint speaking about the payment process for farmers working with NRCS at 45:00 (they will prepay or reimburse farmers directly based on the schedule above) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUskHSSpiTQ

    More information on Grain Ecosystem:

    We aim to enhance efficiencies, cost-effectiveness, and scalability, expediting swift deal analysis, and delivering high-quality leads within a seamless and digitally driven framework, not to mention, we provide access to vital learnings and materials surrounding how to evaluate CDR and waste-to-value projects like biochar.

    Additionally, we recently unveiled a partnership with UBS (which can be very helpful to accelerate the velocity of capital/augment funding options), and Dynamo Energy has identified Grain as a standout Clean-Tech startup to watch in 2024. You can find the complete paper and announcement at this Link.

    Here is a Solution Overview Video and a bit of additional resources on Grain:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqYiESaKsag&t=19s – full demo

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYSqNRHxveM --- short overview

    Grain Ecosystem (https://www.grainecosystem.com/) is the frictionless workstream platform for carbon removal credits, helping project developers access global carbon markets, which is currently confusing, challenging, and time-consuming. Grain provides software tools that accelerate the processes of testing eligibility, GHG calculation, project profitability, and gaining access to capital. The true north for Grain is to sequester as much carbon as possible while creating high-quality, permanent carbon offsets that enhance the economic viability of the developers and communities that engage with Grain.

    NACW 2023: Biochar Opportunities Generate 'Excitement' at Carbon Conference

    Market Watch - Grain Ecosystem Raises Capital from SE Ventures to Accelerate Carbon Offset Market Disruption

    Grain Ecosystem Presents at the Wall St. Green Summit [Video]