In this episode of Wicked Problems: Climate Tech Conversations, host Richard Delevan dives into groundbreaking new law in Vermont and its potential to reshape the fight against climate change. Richard is joined by two distinguished guests: Lucy Maxwell, Co-Director of the Climate Litigation Network, and Tobias Engelmeier, Co-Founder of Munich-based climate tech startup VIDA. They explore the intersection of litigation, legislation, and technological innovation in tackling climate change and holding major carbon polluters accountable.

Key Topics Discussed:

Interview with Lucy Maxwell

- Lucy Maxwell discusses her role as Co-Director of the Climate Litigation Network and the organisation's work in climate justice.

- Climate Superfund Act: Lucy explains the significance of the Vermont Climate Superfund Act, which seeks to fund climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience through damages collected from major polluters.

- Human Rights Litigation: Insights into the human rights-based litigation approach, exemplified by cases like the Urgenda ruling and the recent European Court of Human Rights decision involving Swiss senior women.

- Global Impact: Lucy highlights how these legal precedents are influencing climate litigation worldwide, including in Korea, Australia, and Latin America.

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Interview with Tobias Engelmeier

- Tobias introduces VIDA, which leverages satellite imagery and advanced data analytics to assess climate risks and opportunities for infrastructure projects.

- Climate Data and Technology: Discussion on how VIDA technology provides granular climate risk assessments, helping investors, insurers, and governments make informed decisions about infrastructure resilience.

- Vermont Legislation's Relevance: Tobias explains why VIDA has been closely monitoring the Vermont Climate Superfund Act and how such legislation could drive demand for climate adaptation technologies.

- Future of Climate Adaptation: Insights into the potential for new markets and innovations in climate adaptation driven by legislative and regulatory changes.

Quotes:

- Lucy Maxwell: "The climate crisis is a human rights crisis, and governments have human rights obligations to adopt strong and robust climate laws based on science."

- Tobias Engelmeier: "We are very excited about the Vermont legislation because it represents a massive change in the legal regulatory environment, potentially driving demand for climate adaptation technologies."

Featured Guests:

* Lucy Maxwell: Co-Director of the Climate Litigation Network, an expert in climate justice and human rights-based litigation.

* Tobias Engelmeier: Co-Founder and CEO of VIDA, a Munich-based startup focused on using satellite imagery and data analytics to assess climate risks for infrastructure projects.

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Broadcast on:

14 May 2024