Business Green's James Murray: Boots, Solar Panels, and a Terry Pratchett Theory of Net Zero Inequality

James Murray, Editor in Chief of Business Green, talks with Wicked Problems about everything from how he handled unexpected protestors (compared to how this week’s Broadway protest, also by XR, was met) to Terry Pratchett-inspired Solar Panel Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness.

Join us as James shares insights from the Net Zero Festival, discusses the challenges of transition poverty, and offers a vision for a sustainable and equitable future.

Episode Highlights

• [00:00:30] Introduction to James Murray: A brief introduction to our guest, James Murray, his role as Editor in Chief of Business Green, and his influence in the field of environmental journalism.

• [00:05:00] Tales from the Net Zero Festival: James recounts the success of the Net Zero Festival, including surprise appearances by Joanna Lumley and Alastair Campbell, and the event's impact on promoting sustainability.

• [00:10:00] The Boots Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness: Drawing on Terry Pratchett's insightful humor, James discusses economic disparities in accessing green technology and the broader implications for the net zero transition.

• [00:15:00] Mastering Unplanned Moments: Hear about the unexpected stage invasion at the Net Zero Festival and James's perspective on handling protests with respect and understanding.

• [00:20:00] The Energy Transition and Climate Tech: Delving into the intricacies of the energy transition, James shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities within climate technology.

• [00:25:00] The Importance of Equitable Policies: A discussion on the necessity of designing policies and investments that recognize the risk of transition poverty and ensure benefits are shared equitably.

• [00:30:00] Celebrating Women in Green Business: James introduces the Women in Green Business Awards, highlighting the role of diversity in driving the green economy and addressing the green skills gap.

• [00:35:00] Looking Ahead to the Next Net Zero Festival: A sneak peek into the upcoming Net Zero Festival, its aims to celebrate and showcase the exciting developments in the green economy, and the introduction of a new, in-depth workshop stream.

James’ Catalysts

• David Wallace-Wells' "The Uninhabitable Earth" for its stark depiction of climate risks.

• George Monbiot's "Heat" as a pioneering discussion on achieving a net zero economy.

• Akshat Rathi's optimistic views in Climate Capitalism.

• David Roberts’

  Volts

• Hannah Ritchie
  ’s Not the End of the World.

Further Reading

• Business Green

• Net Zero Festival

• Women in Green Business Awards

• UK Green Business Awards (June)

Connect with James Murray

• LinkedIn

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