Ep 126: Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy at the University of California, Berkeley

Today's guest is Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy at the University of California, Berkeley.

We have a long form discussion in this episode about Dan's background, how his perspective on the problem of climate change has evolved over the years and how he thinks about the problem today. Dan's perspective is particularly unique given the diverse background that he brings, which I find super interesting given the systems nature of the problem.

In today’s episode, we cover:

• Daniel’s background and early academic career in energy research.
• How Daniel’s research has been implemented outside of his lab.
• Origins and history of nuclear energy.
• The question of nuclear energy as a solution to climate change.
• The stigma around nuclear energy and reasons for it.
• Tension between proponents of nuclear and advocates of solar.
• The possibility and feasibility of going 100% renewable energy.
• The prospects of long-term energy storage.
• The need for more and lower-cost storage.
• The importance of moving climate from the development of science and technology into a social movement.
• Daniel’s thoughts on a price of carbon.
• The implications of switching from a “dirty” economy to a “clean” one.
• How clean energy is aligned with the objectives of social justice.
• His recommendations for the next U.S. President in addressing climate change.
• Links to topics discussed in this episode:
• Daniel’s website: http://kammen.berkeley.edu/
• Joe Biden’s Climate Plan: https://joebiden.com/environmental-justice-2/#
• Circular economy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circular_economy

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*Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant