Smart Society Show Episode 5 - After the US Election: Europe’s Climate Role, Rhian-Mari Thomas (CEO, Green Finance Institute) on Sustainable Finance, and Tommy Ricketts (Co-Founder&CEO, BeZero) on Carbon Ratings and Markets

In Episode 5 of The Smart Society Show, co-hosts Brynne Kennedy and Chris Skidmore unpack the implications of the recent U.S. election on global climate leadership, joined by Rhian-Mari Thomas, CEO of the Green Finance Institute, and Tommy Ricketts, Co-Founder and CEO of BeZero.

What’s News: The U.S. Election and Europe’s Climate Leadership

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Brynne and Chris discuss the surprising outcome of the U.S. election and its potential ripple effects on international climate policy. They explore how Europe might solidify its position as a global leader in climate innovation and sustainability, particularly in light of shifting U.S. policies. They explore the opportunities this moment presents for Europe to attract climate investment, scale innovation, and strengthen energy markets.

Chasing Net-Zero: Rhian-Mari Thomas

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Rhian-Mari Thomas shares her journey from investment banking to leading the Green Finance Institute, focusing on the critical role of finance in enabling the real economy’s transition to net zero. She highlights innovative approaches like green mortgages and sector-specific strategies that align policy and private capital to unlock sustainable investment. Rhian emphasizes the need for collaboration across governments, financial institutions, and industries to accelerate climate action.

Chasing Unicorns: Tommy Ricketts

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Tommy Ricketts dives into BeZero’s pioneering work as a carbon ratings agency, explaining how their innovative methodologies bring much-needed transparency and trust to the carbon credit market. He discusses the importance of robust analytical frameworks to assess carbon project quality and the role of data-driven insights in scaling carbon markets responsibly. Tommy also reflects on the intersection of finance and climate science as essential to building a thriving green economy.

Final Thoughts

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Episode 5 highlights the convergence of policy, finance, and innovation in shaping the future of the global climate agenda. Brynne and Chris emphasize Europe’s critical role in accelerating the green transition, powered by leaders like the Green Finance Institute and BeZero. As the U.S. navigates its post-election climate stance, Europe has a unique opportunity to lead.

Join us for this compelling conversation on the policies, innovations, and frameworks driving real-world climate impact! Listen here

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