Mission Shunya

Artificial Intelligence is fueling a surge in global electricity demand — with data centers emerging as one of the fastest-growing energy consumers. But can our current systems keep up sustainably?In this final episode of the Mission Shunya nuclear energy series, I speak with Ruan Steyn, a nuclear energy expert, about the role nuclear power could play in supporting the AI revolution.We discuss: ⚡ The scale of AI-driven energy demand and what it means for grids ☢️ Why nuclear is being revisited as a reliable, low-carbon option 📊 The economics and scalability of nuclear compared with alternatives 🌍 What it would take to align nuclear with sustainability goalsFrom data centers to decarbonization, this episode highlights how nuclear is increasingly being viewed not just as part of the clean energy transition, but as part of the digital transition too.And a quick update before we close this series: Mission Shunya is now ranked among the top energy transition podcasts worldwide by Feedspot (see the list here)A big thank you to all listeners for helping make this possible!Follow Ruan Steyn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/ruan-steyn🎙 Hosted by Girish Shivakumar 📍 Mission Shunya — conversations towards the global zero carbon transition

Nuclear fusion is often described as the holy grail of clean energy — but why has it remained so elusive, and what makes plasma confinement such a critical challenge?In this episode of the Mission Shunya podcast, we speak with Dr. Katarina Bendtz, a computational physicist at Novatron Fusion Group, a Swedish startup developing a radically different approach to magnetic confinement.We dive into: ⚛️ The technical challenges of fusion and why plasma confinement is key 🧲 How Novatron’s magnetic field design sets it apart from tokamaks and stellarators 💻 The role of computational physics in accelerating fusion innovation 🌍 Europe’s growing fusion ecosystem and Sweden’s role in the race 👩‍🔬 Katarina’s personal journey into fusion and what it takes to build a career in this cutting-edge fieldThis conversation highlights not only the science, but also the persistence and people behind the effort to bring fusion from theory to reality.As we near the close of the nuclear series, this episode adds yet another dimension — showing how startups in Europe are reshaping what the future of fusion could look like.🎙 Hosted by Girish Shivakumar 📍 Mission Shunya — conversations towards the global zero carbon transition

What does it take to build trust in nuclear energy? Behind every advanced reactor design, every regulatory approval, and every safety system lies a complex web of risk analysis — and that’s where Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) comes in.In this episode, we sit down with Jenifer Avellaneda Díaz, a PRA & Risk Analysis Engineer, to explore the foundational role PRA plays in the nuclear sector. From its evolution post-nuclear disasters to how it is applied in the emerging world of SMRs, we unpack the frameworks that underpin modern nuclear safety and reliability.We also discuss how artificial intelligence and digital innovation could reshape the future of PRA, and what it means for nuclear’s long-term role in a decarbonized energy system.Whether you're a nuclear engineer, a policymaker, or someone curious about the risk dynamics of complex energy systems — this episode offers a clear-eyed, expert perspective on one of the most crucial (and often invisible) aspects of nuclear energy.🔗 Connect with Jenifer https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenifer-avellaneda/ 🎙 Hosted by Girish Shivakumar 📍 Part of the Mission Shunya nuclear energy series — conversations towards the global zero carbon transition

In this episode of the Mission Shunya podcast, we enter the world of nuclear fusion startups — where physics meets entrepreneurial grit.Joining me is Francesco Volpe, founder and CEO of Renaissance Fusion, a European company working to build the first commercial stellarator fusion reactor. Unlike the massive, government-led projects like ITER, Renaissance Fusion is a leaner, more agile operation — focused on new magnet technology, novel plasma confinement approaches, and ambitious timelines.In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore: 🔬 What makes stellarator fusion different — and why it’s hard 🇪🇺 Why Europe is taking a unique path in the fusion race ⚙️ How scientific R&D translates (or struggles) to become commercial tech 🧪 What makes building a fusion startup different from any other energy venture 🌍 How fusion fits into the broader clean energy transition Francesco brings the perspective of a physicist turned entrepreneur — combining deep domain expertise with the urgency of climate innovation.If you’ve ever wondered whether fusion is finally moving beyond the “30 years away” cliché — or what it actually takes to build a fusion company from scratch — this episode offers a clear-eyed, hopeful perspective from the front-lines.🎧 Next in the series: A conversation with Westinghouse PRA engineer on nuclear safety, public trust, and what it means to assess risk in real time.Follow Francesco Volpe: https://renfusion.eu/

In this episode of the Mission Shunya podcast’s nuclear energy series, we step into the global arena with Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, Director General of the World Nuclear Association (WNA) — the body that represents the worldwide nuclear industry.From COP28’s commitment to triple nuclear capacity by 2050 to regional differences in policy, deployment, and public perception, Dr. Sama brings a global systems-level view to the nuclear dialogue. We unpack the role of WNA in shaping international frameworks, supporting industry collaboration, and navigating the complex balance between advocacy, public trust, and regulatory realities.This conversation also explores: What the World Nuclear Association actually does and how it operates How nuclear is being positioned in national energy strategies across regions The post-Fukushima decade and nuclear’s narrative shift Whether institutions like WNA carry inherent biases, and how they deal with them Public perception, misinformation, and the role of transparency As always, the goal of this series is to approach nuclear energy with a neutral lens — asking informed, critical questions while staying open to where the answers lead.So whether you’re a nuclear skeptic, supporter, or still forming your opinion, this episode offers the global context you need to understand where the sector is — and where it’s going.Next up: We head into the world of fusion with Renaissance Fusion — a deep dive into how Europe is tackling fusion energy differently.Mission Shunya is a podcast that brings you stories at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and the energy transition — hosted by Girish Shivakumar.Connect with Dr Sama: https://world-nuclear.org/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Nuclear energy has long stood at the intersection of promise and controversy. From concerns over safety and public perception to its evolving place in global clean energy strategies, the conversation around nuclear is rarely straightforward. In this episode, Girish Shivakumar sits down with Richard Orlington of Radiant Energy Group — a veteran energy analyst tracking the global power sector — to separate fact from fiction.We explore: Why nuclear’s public narrative has shifted from weapons and accidents to clean, firm energy The lifecycle and real timelines behind nuclear project development How energy policies around the world are beginning to re-embrace nuclear The role nuclear can play in stabilizing the grid alongside renewables Common myths that continue to hold back progress in the sector What the data actually shows about nuclear’s cost, safety, and scalability Richard brings a rare systems-level view of the energy transition, blending technical insight with global policy awareness. Whether you’re pro-nuclear, anti-nuclear, or undecided, this episode offers a balanced, data-driven lens through which to understand nuclear’s evolving role.New episodes drop every two weeks. Follow the show and stay tuned for more conversations unpacking the nuclear puzzle.Connect with Richard: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/richardollington | https://www.radiantenergygroup.com/Artwork courtesy: www.terregeneration.com – a content agency specialised in stories on climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Share with three people who care about our energy future.

What exactly is nuclear energy? How do nuclear power plants work? And are the concerns about safety still valid today? In this foundational episode of the Mission Shunya nuclear series, host Girish Shivakumar sits down with Dr Paul Cosgrove, nuclear energy researcher from the University of Cambridge to unpack the basics. From the science of nuclear fission to modern safety protocols and global shifts in energy policy, this conversation lays the groundwork for understanding nuclear energy's place in the clean energy transition.Whether you're a skeptic, a supporter, or simply curious, this is your starting point to make sense of the ‘N’ word in net zero.Connect with Paul: https://www.cnec.uk/dr-paul-cosgroveArtwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

In this solo kickoff to a brand new series, host Girish Shivakumar takes listeners on a personal journey — from joining the renewable energy movement post-Fukushima to now exploring the evolving role of nuclear energy in our net-zero future.Why is nuclear suddenly back on the agenda for governments and tech giants? What has changed between 2011 and 2025? And why is this often-controversial topic essential to understand now?This episode sets the context for a series that dives into nuclear energy with a neutral lens — unpacking the science, safety, technology, policy, and real-world implications with voices from across the spectrum.What You’ll Learn: Why nuclear energy has been a taboo topic in clean energy circles The Fukushima moment and its impact on Girish’s career choice The resurgence of nuclear in the clean energy dialogue How AI and data center demands are shifting energy strategies The motivation behind this new podcast series on nuclear Links & Resources: Follow the podcast: missionshunya.com Connect with Girish on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/girishshivakumar Artwork courtesy: www.terregeneration.com – a content agency specialising in storytelling across climate, biodiversity, and sustainability. Liked the episode? Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Share it with 3 people in your network — it only takes 30 seconds! 

In this insightful episode of Mission Shunya, host Girish Shivakumar welcomes Gabriel Thoumi, CEO of Responsible Alpha, to discuss the growing importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors in today’s financial landscape. As the political climate shifts globally, Gabriel shares expert insights into how investors and financial institutions are adapting their strategies to align with ESG principles.Explore how political changes impact sustainable investing, the role of ESG in risk management, and why financial markets are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. Whether you're a financial professional, investor, or simply interested in the future of responsible investing, this episode is packed with crucial information about the intersection of finance, sustainability, and global politics.Tune in for actionable takeaways on integrating ESG into financial strategies and staying ahead in a rapidly changing world.Connect with Gabriel: https://www.responsiblealpha.com/Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

What do you do if you're one of the largest asset owners in your region, yet still have a commitment to a net-zero transition? While building retrofits present significant challenges, the effort is undeniably worthwhile. In this episode, Kyle Gray, the lead at The Crown Estate, shares insights into their journey toward net-zero and the hurdles they face. Joining Girish Shivakumar, Kyle discusses the trade-offs, the evolving landscape of building retrofits, and why this work is crucial for The Crown Estate's future.Connect with Kyle: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kylealexandergrayArtwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Building materials are key components in assessing the net carbon impact of construction sector and in recent times there are a bunch of early stage companies that are claiming to have an USP with their product or technology.Loren Burnett, President, CEO and Co-founder, Prometheus Materials joins Girish Shivakumar for a conversation to share their innovation which is inspired by the composition of coral and seashells. Their process combines microalgae with other natural components to form a zero-carbon bio-cement and bio-concrete.Links to connect with Loren: https://prometheusmaterials.com/Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

"Did you know that the construction industry/the built environment is responsible for nearly 30-40% of global carbon emissions? Yes, that is exactly the topic we are going to discuss in this series, ‘Building Green: Decarbonizing Construction’.On this episode Tercia Jansen Van Vuuren a global expert and a practitioner of sustainable practices in the construction shares her experience, views and a lot more as we try to decipher and understand the key drivers and enablers in decarbonising the construction sector. Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

"Did you know that the construction industry/the built environment is responsible for nearly 30-40% of global carbon emissions? Yes, that is exactly the topic we are going to discuss in this series, ‘Building Green: Decarbonizing Construction’.Jack Wardale, Director at Terra Instinct joins us for the inaugural episode on this series to build on from our earlier conversations around ESG and lay the foundation to understand the significance of strong corporate fundamentals/ESG principles in driving towards decarbonisation of the built environment. Links to connect with Jack: jwardale[@]terrainstinct.com | https://terrainstinct.com/Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Environmental Social & Governance (ESG) related discussions is happening across the board but not everyone is keen. So what is holding us back in the adoption of ESG practices by businesses? Gabriel Thoumi, President & CEO of Responsible Alpha joins Girish Shivakumar to share his experience of running into problems in implementation of ESG practices around the world.Connect with Gabriel: https://www.responsiblealpha.com/ Link to Episode 100: https://youtu.be/SaVhdi6FvAg?si=529N0dxb3HuyYOoa Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

On this second of a three part series around ESG we look at “How are businesses navigating the ESG landscape?”.  Tomoo Machib from Zeroboard joins Girish Shivakumar for a conversation. Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

ESG is everywhere, but what is it all about? What is the big deal? Why are companies worried about ESG implementation? How does this play into the wider net-zero transition?All this and more on this first of a three part series around ESG with Girish Shivakumar.Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Mission Shunya hits ‘100’ and it’s time to hit rewind and look back at the journey so far, the highs, the lows and everything in between. On this special episode, Girish Shivakumar is interviewed by the TerreGeneration team ft. Jacob and Kaushik where he shares his journey from creating the podcast to doing 100 episodes over the last few years and what to expect over the next 100 and beyond. TerreGeneration is also the team behind the artworks for Mission Shunya, they are a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability (www.terregeneration.com).Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Are you looking to upgrade your bike to an e-bike? Well, you don’t have to buy a new one; all you need is a ‘Clip’. On this week’s episode Som Ray, CEO & Founder at Clip Bike joins Girish Shivakumar for a conversation. Key topics: The problem with conventional bikesThe innovation behind ‘Clip’Will the E-bike boom sustain in the post pandemic years?Clip as a solution for personal & shared bikesClip’s global ambitionsConnect with Som: https://www.linkedin.com/in/somnath-ray/ | Campaign https://wefunder.com/clip Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

What is community solar? How can commercial & industrial (C&I) sector players leverage this asset to cut down on energy bills? All this and more discussed on this episode where Gabriel Phillips, CEO, Catalyst Power joins Girish Shivakumar for a conversation.Key topics: What is community solar?Who benefits more from community solar?Energy efficiency in Commercial & Industrial (C&I) Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)Energy Storage’s role in C&I sectorConnect with Gabe: https://catalystpower.com/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Waste is ubiquitous, can solutions be ubiquitous too? Well, it can be, if the solution conceptualized by UBQ Materials is scaled up according to Rachel Barr who joins Girish Shivakumar for a conversation. Key topics:  Diverting waste from landfills What is UBQ material? The climate positive process of conversion Supporting a circular economy by reimagining waste Scaling up UBQ materials in the developing world About Rachel – Rachel is a VP at UBQ leading their sustainability efforts, working closely with clients and international organizations to advance the circular economy and decarbonize production. She is also a PhD and Energy Economist by qualification.Connect with Rachel: https://bit.ly/3xwcSnJ | https://www.ubqmaterials.com/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Soil is a crucial piece in the carbon sequestration cycle, but are we doing enough to preserve it? Are we incentivizing farmers to practice sustainable farming? How can carbon credits enable farmers get additional revenue? All this and more discussed on this episode where Robin Saluoks, Founder and CEO from eAgronom joins Girish Shivakumar for a chat.Key topics:  Sustainable farming Soil Carbon Sequestration The ‘right price’ for carbon Farming based carbon credits New regulations for carbon markets Connect with Robin: https://bit.ly/3Y5qnGy https://www.eagronom.com/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Qatar spent nearly 15 times more than Russia in hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, was it worth it? Are big sporting events really sustainable in the long run? Was London Olympics of 2012 the real success story? All this and more discussed on this episode where Girish Shivakumar is joined by  Jitesh Brahmkshatriya, Senior Director at CBRE.Key topics: Sustainability of large infrastructure projectsPositive impacts of London OlympicsSustainability in Beijing & Tokyo OlympicsQatar’s net zero FIFA World Cup Connect with Jitesh: https://bit.ly/3XopjNy |Freakonomics Episode: http://bit.ly/3wmTOrH Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

First & last mile commute account for nearly 25% of transport emissions and sustainable micro-mobility is the way forward. Wim Ouboter, the ‘Swiss Elon Musk’, founder of Micro Mobility Systems joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode sharing his story of building a business around kick scooters and now launching the Microlino.Key topics: Importance of innovation in businessStorytelling and brand buildingThe role of partners in scaling a businessConnect with Wim: https://www.micro-mobility.com/en/ |Fully Charged Episode: https://bit.ly/3HF6gd8  Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds. 

The unexpected events in Europe have resulted in an energy crisis of sorts but the biggest fear is the winter that is around the corner. Matthew Myers joins Girish Shivakumar to share his perspectives on the current situation.Key topics: The energy price rise in EuropeNatural gas situation in UK and EuropeDemand side measures for the winterThe importance of thermostatsThe economics of heat pumpsConnect with Matt: http://bit.ly/3iD14vy Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Everyone talks about recycling and reusing resources but what does it take to setup & scale a business in this sector? A.L.N. Rao, CEO of Exigo Recycling joins Girish Shivakumar to share his experience.Key topics: ·        What it takes to set up & scale recycling business in India?·        The importance of informal sector in the landscape·        The evolving policy and regulatory landscape for recycling in India·        Why is the process more important than the technology used in recycling?·        Is this the boom time for the recycling market?Connect with Rao: http://bit.ly/3UOX2hX 

How can you get started with small action steps for a sustainable living? Girish Shivakumar & Premasri Girish discuss the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) programme.Key topics: 75 small action steps for everyday sustainable livingApply to the Mission LiFE global call for ideas: https://www.niti.gov.in/life | LiFE document: https://bit.ly/3U9OeD0 Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Wouldn’t it be fun if your daily dose of game time resulted in planting more trees? Well, that’s exactly what Michael Libenson has set out to do with the EverForest game. Michael joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode to share his idea behind this new game which is aimed to create a fun and socially inclusive behavioural nudges ultimately resulting in more trees on ground. Listen in to join the fun. Michael is a serial entrepreneur and avid outdoorsman, who hikes, climbs, skis, and runs at every opportunity. He believes that together, consumers, businesses, and governments can (and must) solve the greatest challenge of our time: climate change.Connect with Michael and sign up for early game access: https://www.carboncounts.tech/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Why should we care about reducing our carbon footprint? Can we have a universal carbon label? All this and a lot more discussed on this episode where Girish Shivakumar is in conversation with Frank Dalene. Frank Dalene is President and CEO of Telemark, Inc and has over four decades of experience in the construction sector. On an even larger scale, Frank is innovating the manner in which companies can assess their carbon footprint. Through his ICEMAN (International Carbon Equivalent Mechanism Attributed to Neutrality) methodology, companies can get an accurate snapshot of their product’s carbon emissions on a standardized scaleConnect with Frank: https://frankdalene.com/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Every business needs a value differentiator, so how do entrepreneurs’ discover their USP/UVP?Girish Shivakumar and Premasri Girish pick up a few entrepreneurs and their stories from the channel on this episode. Listen to full episodes here-EnergyX, Lithium extraction (Ep.12-https://bit.ly/3Bt9s6G)Waterscope, Water testing (Ep. 35- https://bit.ly/3xyLSV7)Rimagined, Upcycled products (Ep.8- https://bit.ly/3dnJGc2)Eco-hike, Clothing from plastic (Ep.23- https://bit.ly/3Ln8v4A)Organic Solutions, Waste water treatment (Ep.86- https://bit.ly/3eVvDuN)Edible Routes, Organic farming (Ep.87- https://bit.ly/3xWGr2D)Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Mission Shunya is now also available on Suno India https://sunoindia.in/shows/climateandenvironment Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Did you know that growing your own food is good for the planet? Have you tried farming? If not, you can always rent a small farm to grow your food.This conversation between Girish Shivakumar and Kapil Mandawewala from Edible Routes is all about growing your own food and reducing your carbon footprint. Connect with Kapil https://edibleroutes.com/ | https://www.instagram.com/edibleroutes Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

What happens to water after you flush it down the drain? You might not care. But, water is a stressed asset and it is high time we start to close the loop.Closed loop recycling of water is the theme of this episode where Aditi of Organic Solutions joins Girish Shivakumar to share her story and the organic water treatment solutions developed by them for both small and medium scale residential units. Connect with Aditi www.organicsolutions.in Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability. Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds. 

Are the high commodity prices going to be the new normal?What is the role of critical metals in the net zero transition and also a lot more about Titanium and recycling on this episode featuring a conversation between Girish Shivakumar and Anastasios (Taso) Arima from IperionX. Connect with Taso Arima https://iperionx.com/ | https://bit.ly/3SmypIC Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Electric Vehicles (EV) are the talk of the town (globally)! So, how do you decide if EV is right for you? Which category of EV should you choose? What are the incentives available for purchasing an EV?All this and more discussed on this episode. Girish Shivakumar along with Premasri Girish share their personal journey and experience in owning an EV and completing 1000+miles so far on this episode. Any questions? Missionshunya[@]gmail.com is the id. Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

When was the last time you had a light-bulb moment for an idea? What drives you to do the work you do? How did you get started with your passion project?All these questions lead to some interesting stories and this episode is a short compilation of such stories from a few of our guests who appeared on the episodes earlier. Pursuing a passion project or being an entrepreneur in the sustainability sector comes with its own set of challenges but the ultimate goal which drives them is climate action and getting to global net-zero carbon emissions. Listen to the briefs from Jacob Cherian (Ep-33https://bit.ly/3BSMqYC), Prof. Chetan Singh Solanki (Ep-11 https://bit.ly/3QU5D0a), Karthik Ganesan(Ep-16 https://bit.ly/3Uf5BTz), Aayush Jha(Ep-17 https://bit.ly/3BodRIh), Neel Mathews(Ep-18 https://bit.ly/3UpbHR9) and Tristan A. Foerster (Ep-60 https://bit.ly/3qP96Ct) on this episode. Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Today, we produce about 400 million tonnes of plastic waste every year. Our Planet is choking with plastics. How can we break free from plastics? What are the alternatives? How can brands and organisations be more responsible? As a consumer, what can you do to have a positive impact?Joining Girish Shivakumar is Von Hernandez, Global Coordinator, Break Free From Plastic. The Break Free From Plastic Movement is a global movement envisioning a future free from plastic pollution.Connect with Von: https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

68% of the global population will be living in urban areas by 2050 according to the UN but, are our cities prepared for it?How can building cities move away from the conventional methods to make them more resilient? Why should we build better cities if we are to reach the global net zero targets? Joining Girish Shivakumar is Pedro B. Ortiz, an acclaimed expert when it comes to building cities. He popularized the Metro Matrix theory of city building. Among his various distinctions and roles include serving the World Bank and the city of Madrid as a Mayor. Connect with Pedro: http://pedrobortiz.com/ | https://bit.ly/3amVqtD Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Recovering valuable resources from waste is only the last leg of the journey. But what goes into setting up the process for private & public sector stakeholders to ensure we build a zero- waste world. What are the best practices for market development in waste management and recycling that developing countries can adopt?On this episode Anne Johnson joins Girish Shivakumar to share her experience in developing systems and processes for waste segregation, processing and recycling at Resource Recycling Systems (RRS). Anne is a Principal and Vice President at RRS and co-leads the Global Corporate Sustainability practice. She has more than 25 years of experience working on packaging design and recovery issues, as well as corporate sustainability.Connect with Anne : https://recycle.com/ | https://bit.ly/3L0CbTa Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

The IPCC publishes comprehensive reports about climate change, the impacts and potential solutions. But what goes behind in the preparation of the reports? How are the authors' onboarded? How do they go about preparing the massive reports that have a significant global influence?  Dr Aditi Mukherji, Principal Researcher at the International Water Management Institute and a coordinating Lead Author of IPCC WG II report joins Girish Shivakumar to share her experience of working on the report and much more.Connect with Aditi : https://twitter.com/aditimukherji Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

How can you ensure better plastic recovery? Can businesses benefit from recycled plastic? How do you build the circular economy of plastic? Pratibha Dewett, Chief Sustainability and Marketing officer of Lucro Plastecycle, an Indian plastic waste collector, recycler and product manufacturer joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode to share the story of how Lucro pioneered in developing post-consumer recyclable products, to achieve circular economy for plastics in India. Connect with Pratibha: https://www.lucro.in/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/pratibhadewett/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

What are the drawbacks of Lithium batteries? Can CO2 be used as a source for a battery? Are alternatives to lithium batteries price competitive? Claudio Spadacini, Founder & CEO at Energy Dome joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode to share the technology behind Energy Dome and how they are using CO2 against Climate Change. Energy Dome’s focus is long duration energy storage. Connect with Claudio: https://energydome.com/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudio-spadacini-13a78146/  Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability. Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

What is chemical recycling? Is it sustainable? Can circular economy in chemical recycling be achieved at a local scale?Maurizio Crippa PhD, CEO at Gr3n Recycling joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode to share his experience working as a materials scientist trying to solve the biggest problems through innovative solution. The result is Gr3n recycling with a vision of making plastics circular.Connect with Maurizio: https://gr3n-recycling.com/| https://bit.ly/368FUQ8  Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability. Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Is connection to grid the real measure of energy access? What is the impact of energy access on livelihoods? How has energy access coupled with renewable energy created a new class of entrepreneurs’’?Abhishek Jain, Fellow & Director of Powering Livelihoods, a CEEW initiative joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode to share his experience from implementing various energy access projects across India. Connect with Abhishek: https://www.ceew.in/powering-livelihoods| https://bit.ly/3ChTe0v Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com a content agency specialised in telling stories in climate, biodiversity and sustainability.Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Climate Action through active community engagement - A community in the Western Ghats of India have come together to create environmental awareness in the bio-diversity hotspot. One of their communication channels is the Kodai Chronicle, an outlet that aims to be more than just a publication. Rajni George, editor-in-chief of The Kodai Chronicle joins Girish Shivakumar on this episode to share the origins of the publication, its fundraising campaign and the importance of community engagement. Contribute to the campaign: https://fund.thekodaichronicle.com/ | https://www.thekodaichronicle.com/ Artwork courtesy - www.terregeneration.com Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Forests are a big carbon sink, so why don’t we have more of them? How can communities create forests? How can we create a sustainable, natural ecosystem? All your questions on afforestation and getting started with community forests are answered on this episode.Varun Ravindra is the Chief Conservator at Vanantara, a community lead afforestation project and he is in conversation with Girish Shivakumar. Varun can be reached on LinkedIn https://bit.ly/3JbyKsx |Insta https://bit.ly/3rsQkSD | www.vanantara.com Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

A discussion on Climate Change is not complete without talking about the risks. On this episode Praveen Gupta joins Girish Shivakumar to talk on this topic.Also discussed on this episode are the insurance industry’s interests in climate change and the importance of diversity in climate action. Praveen Gupta is a former CEO who is currently exploring climate action, he can be reached at https://bit.ly/3Gc8QDU | www.thediversityblog.com Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

It’s the last episode of 2021 and a perfect time to do a review. The review is of a different kind where Girish Shivakumar reviews Bill Gates’s book, ‘How to avoid a climate disaster’. Know more - https://www.gatesnotes.com/Energy/My-new-climate-book-is-finally-here Liked the episode? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

What does it take to work in Climate-tech?How do you position yourself for a rewarding role in the space?Why is now the right time to start in climate-tech?Girish Shivakumar shares his story and lessons from his journey of 10 years on building a career in climate-tech. Links mentioned in the episode – VC report – https://pwc.to/3IIsCZm VC newsletter – https://bit.ly/3yisIlq Related blog post – https://bit.ly/3ENYOIr Liked the story? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

COP26 concluded in Glasgow recently, did it deliver?Well, we have the Glasgow climate pact, the Paris rule book and the mention of coal in the agreement. So what else happened during the two week event?Girish Shivakumar discusses the key outcomes from COP26 on this episode.Here’s primer to COP26 if you missed it earlier - https://bit.ly/3p92E85 Dr David Reiner’s review of week 1 - https://bit.ly/3xtdV6Y week 2 - https://bit.ly/3nZkLhF A full summary from Carbon Brief - https://bit.ly/3nXzkSG Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2LFBCVw Other platforms: http://bit.ly/2POiTW3 Web: www.missionshunya.com                                                                            Liked the story? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

Globally one-fourth of the greenhouse gas emissions come from food production. It includes everything like farming, dairy and meat industries. In fact dairy and meat account for nearly 15% of the emissions. So how can a brand contribute to less land, less water and fewer emissions while selling plant-based meat alternatives?On this episode Todd Boyman, Co-Founder & CEO of Hungry Planet joins Girish Shivakumar for an insightful conversation.3 reasons why you should try hungry planet's plant based meat alternativesLess water - Hungry Planet meats consume 62 to 91% less blue and grey water than conventional meats.Less land - Hungry Planet meats require 52 to 79% less agricultural land than conventional meats.Fewer emissions - Hungry Planet meats generate 42 to 89% lower greenhouse gas emissions than conventional meats.To find out more about Todd - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddboyman | https://www.hungryplanetfoods.com  Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2LFBCVw Other platforms: http://bit.ly/2POiTW3 Web: www.missionshunya.com                                                                            Liked the story? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.

The 26th Conference of Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will take place in Glasgow from Oct 31st to Nov 12th 2021. The 4 top goals are - Mitigation, Adaptation, Finance & Collaboration. Along these lines we can expect more firm commitments from the countries at the event. What more to expect?Girish Shivakumar shares his views on the origins of COP and what to expect particularly  at this event and why should we hope for a successful COP26 ?To find out more about COP26 https://ukcop26.org/  | https://unfccc.int/conference/glasgow-climate-change-conference-october-november-2021 Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2LFBCVw Other platforms: http://bit.ly/2POiTW3 Web: www.missionshunya.com Liked the story? Give a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/2LFBCVw). Share it with 3 people in your network, it just takes 30seconds.