A recent podcast highlighted global shift in energy system and opportunities it provides to young entrepreneurs
A still from the podcast. From left, Mirik Gogri, Bhumi Pednekar and Sunita Narain.
Entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath recently announced the allocation of Rs 50 lakh to a charity that pioneers combating climate change in the country. The initiative will also involve the community on the ground to raise awareness about the impact of climate change and how to mitigate its effects.
Climate researcher Navroz Dubash, CSE Director General Sunita Narain, Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar and sustainability collaborator Mirik Gogri were recently on Kamath’s podcast, WTF is Climate Change?, which discussed the issue on macro and micro levels, covering everything from tackling climate anxiety to implementing policies at an intergovernmental level for climate change mitigation.
Complexities in energy transition
The episode dived into the complexities surrounding energy transition, stressing the pivotal role of renewable energy sources like solar, nuclear and wind in addressing climate change. It underscored the imperative of advancing energy storage technologies to bolster the feasibility of renewables and ensure a consistent energy supply.
Additionally, the discussion explored the potential of nuclear energy, particularly through the advancement of small modular reactors and the exploration of thorium as a fuel source, advocating for a diversified approach to the energy landscape.
Recognising the hurdles in transitioning away from fossil fuels — including institutional, technological and political obstacles — the dialogue emphasised the necessity of strategic planning and reforms, particularly within the distribution sector, to facilitate this transition effectively.
Entrepreneurial opportunities in sustainability
The discourse shed light on significant entrepreneurial opportunities in bioenergy, waste management and circular economy initiatives, all interconnected and conducive to fostering innovation, notably in India.
It also highlighted the potential of leveraging renewable energy, such as solar power, to enhance productivity in rural areas and support agricultural activities. Moreover, the episode pointed out that India’s unique context — marked by a deep understanding of local supply chains and adeptness in navigating operational challenges — offers an ideal environment for entrepreneurial endeavours in these sectors.
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