Welcome back to the first episode of the Carbon Exposure Project season 3! Our guest for this episode is Alvin Lim, former Executive Director and head of Asia Environmental Products at Morgan Stanley. He is also a Senior Fellow at the NUS Business School.

In this episode, the following topics are discussed:

00:00 – Introduction

Rene welcomes Alvin Lim and sets the stage for a deep dive into carbon markets, investing, and impact.

02:06 – Alvin’s Journey into Climate and CarbonFrom

COP15 in 2009 as a student to building a carbon thesis at a sovereign wealth fund.

09:21 – Understanding the Private Carbon Market

What are ecosystem enablers? Exploring infrastructure, data, and services in the carbon value chain.

11:00 – Compliance vs. Project-Based Markets

How these two market types differ and intersect—and how fungibility is starting to emerge.

17:35 – Article 6.2 and 6.4: The Road Ahead

Alvin breaks down international cooperation, policy trends, and cost-saving potential from the 2019 IETA–Maryland study.

20:30 – What Makes a Carbon Project Bankable?

Alvin outlines three key risks investors look for: country/political, merchant/price, and performance risk.

26:00 – Methodological Shifts & Issuance Uncertainty

How changing methodologies (e.g. REDD+ VM0048) affect future credit issuance and investor confidence.

29:49 – De-risking the Market: The Role of Public Capital

Philanthropy, DFIs, and blended finance mechanisms that help crowd in institutional investors.

31:15 – Assessing Project Performance Risk

Why track record, conservative estimates, and insurance matter in evaluating project reliability.

33:00 – Does Vintage Matter? A Carbon Market Myth

A myth-busting segment on vintage bias and the time value of carbon, including a reflection on how trading norms shaped perceptions.

41:07 – The Power of Mentorship and Education

Alvin shares his personal story, teaching roles at NUS and Columbia, and why giving back is essential.

48:46 – Carbon Markets & the Energy Transition

The role carbon finance plays in enabling large-scale transition—especially in Asia.

50:25 – Accelerating Coal Phase-Out in Emerging Markets

Financing and incentives needed to speed up coal retirement.

53:10 – How Do We Actually Accelerate the Transition?

The importance of investment, innovation, and international alignment.

57:16 – Reflections on Progress and What’s Next

A look at where we stand in the global decarbonization journey—and what it will take to reach net zero.

For this episode, the Carbon Exposure Project traveled to Kuala Lumpur to visit the Bursa Malaysia Carbon Market Forum 2024. We sat down with the head of carbon markets at Bursa Malaysia, Dr. Wei Nee, to talk about ongoing carbon market developments in Malaysia and Asia.

Bursa Malaysia led the development and implementation of a Malaysian carbon market framework, leading to the launch of the Bursa Carbon Exchange, BCX, in December 2022. BCX offers a diverse portfolio of standardized carbon credit products, differentiating between nature-based and technological solutions that mitigate emissions. With two recent auctions for carbon credits and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), BCX effectively focuses on these two key verticals, enhancing its market offering.

As Malaysia and other Asian countries prepare for COP, Bursa Malaysia is taking an active role in fostering regional collaboration. Dr. Wei Nee shares insights on how they intend to work with neighboring countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore to build a unified Asian carbon framework.

Join us as we dive into the evolving landscape of carbon markets in Asia and explore how Malaysia is positioning itself at the forefront of this critical transition.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Wei Nee, Bursa Malaysia, and BCX

03:02 The Diverse Portfolio of BCX

08:28 Creating an Ecosystem at BCX

11:28 Key Takeaways from the Carbon Market Forum

15:12 Why Are Carbon Markets Not Allowed to Evolve?

17:39 Carbon Collaboration Within the ASEAN Region

23:25 The Domestic Ambitions of BCX

27:55 BCX’s Expectations for COP29

29:30 Advancing Carbon Project Financing as a Multi-Asset Exchange

37:46 End Note

In this episode, the tables are turned. Vincent Verweij, Co-Head of Carbon Markets at Valitera, hosts our Carbon Exposure Project founder, Rene Velasquez. Rene met Vincent at a conference, started mentoring him, and they now work together at Valitera, a business they started together with two other partners. Valitera helps clients achieve their net-zero ambitions by providing the best possible advice and access to environmental markets. In this episode, the following topics are addressed: 1:10 Expectations: Developments in the VCM 2:46 The changing market sentiment 5:46 Rene’s background in the carbon markets 10:30 The growth of the VCM 11:40 Addressing growing pains 14:36 CXP’s goal 15:47 The importance of mentoring 20:46 The goal and purpose Valitera 24:49: Biggest threats for the market

Welcome to the first episode of season 2 of the Carbon Exposure Project! We have amazing episodes and guests lined up to provide engaging discussions and insights into everything that has to do with carbon markets. Our first guest: Lorna Ritchie, Director of Public Affairs at the ICVCM. Enjoy! Timestamps: 1:50: Background of ICVCM 5:00: Core carbon principles 8:05 Reaction from buyers on the CCP-eligible program 9:30 Background of Lorna 12:05 The intersection between the compliance and voluntary markets 14:20 The program assessment process 17:50 corresponding adjustments 24:02 Why carbon credits are essential 28:38 A positive note: the future is bright

In this video, the great initiative 'Women in Carbon' takes over the podcast for one episode. Women in Carbon aims to demonstrate the importance of having balanced diversity within markets and organizations. Today, Camile and Eilís have the opportunity to take charge of our male host's role and co-host the podcast together.

Topics discussed in this episode:

00:34: Introduction Eilís

2:34 Joining Women in Carbon

3:47 How WiC helps the Carbon Industry

7:25 changing diversity in the markets and companies

11:35 Long-term partnership between WiC and the CXP

In this episode, we dive into a great initiative to drive gender diversity in the carbon markets: Women In Carbon. Our guest in this episode is Camile Pêtre, CFO of BeZero Carbon; one of the top carbon market rating agencies.

In this episode, the following topics will be discussed:

1:22 Introduction Camile Pêtre

3:53 Women in Carbon

4:43 Benefits of Women in Carbon

10:21 The Growth of Women In Carbon

11:40 Events of Women In Carbon

13:21 What’s next for Women In Carbon?

14:17 Constraints in taking the next steps

Explore an absolute masterclass from one of the most experienced carbon professionals in the field. For more than 20 years, he has worked in carbon markets and has played a real part in shaping the market to where it is right now. The following topics are discussed in this episode:

1:23 Introduction Mark Lewis; his professional career

3:02 The history of carbon markets

7:32 The pricing of carbon

9:09 Climate-related policy changes in jurisdictions

10:18 Efficient allocation of resources

14:15 Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism

19:09 Importance of a global carbon price

19:55 Article 6 23:49 EU ETS

25:03 Allowance of offset use in the EU ETC

30:46 Why carbon pricing is necessary

32:37 The perfect endnote

This episode highlights the role of insurance in carbon markets to reduce uncertainty and turn risks into opportunities. The following topics are discussed in this episode: 0.57 Introduction: Natalia 6:20 The establishment of Kita 8:10 Risk and insurance companies in the carbon markets 11:26 Risk as an opportunity 14:14 Risk in the carbon markets 15:55 Insurance for project developers 17:20 Insurance for buyers 17:51 Timing risk 19:16 Unlocking capital; insurances bringing opportunities 22:50 How the insurance is structured 27:03 Portfolio Insurance 30:53 Buffers 35:00 Hopes for insurance to unlock

KlimaDAO, co-founded by Giorgio Donà-Danioni, reached a market cap of billions of Dollars within a few months. In this conversation, Giorgio explains the establishment and development of KlimaDAO and talks about his new projects; Carbonmark and KCG.

Timestamp:

1:51 Introduction Georgio 

4:42 Blockchain in carbon markets; democratizing the market 

15:00 Launch of the blockchain

18:12 How the Klima coin exploded 

22:50 Friction with the traditional carbon credit ecosystem 

36:21 Building forward with Carbonmark 

38:44 KCG 

Dive into a masterclass on Article 6, as Kelley Hamrick simplifies the complex topics of carbon markets. In this COP28 UAE Special episode, the following topics are discussed:

0.50 Introduction; Kelley and carbon markets

5:17 COP28; moving from talking to taking action

8:00 Carbon markets and article 6.2

15:18 Article 6.4

21:00 Fungibility between articles 6.4 and 6.2; interoperability

23:07 Article 6.8

25:00 Hopes for COP28

29:00 The non-profit sector

33:41 Resolve the lack of resources in the global south

Dive into this very interesting conversation between two former colleagues, and above all, very good friends. Russel Karas, Head of Commodities at Xpansiv, discusses the following topics together with our host Rene Velasquez:

1:49 Introduction: Russell

6:00 Working Together at Xpansiv

9:03 The Development of Launching GEO and N-GEO

15:50 The Influence of COVID/Russian-Ukrainian War on Market Dynamics

17:07 The Growth of Xpansiv and the Carbon Markets

21:02 Optimism: The Calm Before the Storm

28:00 Hopes for 2024 and the Later Future

This episode is featured by Stephanie Russo, CEO of Carbon Growth Partners. After Rich Gillmore, she is the second guest returning to our podcast for the second time! And this is not without a reason; she is phenomenal in what she does.

In this episode, we sit down with Peter Zaman, Partner at HFW, to explore the evolving landscape of carbon markets. Peter is one of the foremost legal experts in the carbon markets. We discuss the challenges of implementing the Paris Agreement, the role of voluntary carbon markets in global decarbonization efforts, and the various types of carbon credits, including the differences between voluntary, CORSIA, and Article 6 credits. Peter breaks down these complex topics with clear analogy, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how carbon credits differ and how carbon markets contribute to the fight against climate change.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Peter and the Carbon Markets 1.0

8:59 Peter’s Role in Carbon Markets 2.0

16:30 The Paris Agreement and its implementation challenges

22:59 The role of the VCM in the global decarbonization strategy

27:32 Different types of carbon approaches and credits

35:15 The difference between voluntary / Corsica / Article 6 credits

37:01 An analogy to explain the difference in credits

Dive into a conversation with two inspiring leaders within climate finance: Naveed Tariq, CEO at Seagrass, and Ely Sandler, Fellow at the Harvard School of Government. 00:00 Introduction Monologue 00:45 Host Welcome and Introduction 01:14 Introduction by Naveed Tariq, CEO at Seagrass 03:24 Introduction by Ely Sandler, Fellow at the Harvard School of Government 03:40 Ely explains the economic basis for carbon finance 04:30 Ely explains the fundamentals of Article 6 under the Paris Agreement 05:36 Ely discusses the model that he and his colleague Professor Daniel Schrag developed for financing the energy transition through cross-border investment (see: https://www.belfercenter.org/publication/financing-energy-transition-through-cross-border-investment) 07:25 Financing gap for energy grid infrastructure 09:15 Need to link the investment in grids necessary, estimated at $830B annually, to the emission reductions that this infrastructure enables and the intersection under the Paris Agreement 12:58 How to scale the carbon market through innovative financing mechanisms 15:45 The role of the Seagrass marketplace in helping to scale the market 21:00 The scale of the financing gap required to achieve the climate goals and the opportunity for carbon markets 24:03 The role of additionality in carbon financing 24:48 The potential for Hydrogen as an energy source 26:48 The importance of bankability to help unlock scale in climate finance 31:22 Article 6 potential for scaling finance and concluding remarks

We're thrilled to present our newest episode featuring Mark Kenber, Executive Director at VCMI. On this episode, Mark and our very own Rene Velasquez dive deep into the intricacies of Voluntary Carbon Markets (VCMs) and their pivotal role in driving the global transition to Net Zero.

Timestamps:

0:43 Introducing VCMI

2:24 Framework to make claims using carbon credits.

3:25 The importance of transparency and integrity to build trust and scale in VCMs.

5:25 Companies struggling meeting SCOPE 3 targets.

9:20 How to incentive investment in Innovation & Technology and Carbon markets to drive transformation within companies.

10:34 Building an end to end High Integrity Framework to channel corporate finance in developing countries while achieving efficient decarbonisation.

16:10 VCMs role in innovation and infrastructure as a tool for enabling compliance markets initiatives.

19:42 VCMs in developing countries as a vehicle to meet NDC´s and more ambitious targets in the future.

23:30 The importance of corporate incentives when acquiring carbon credits to develop VCMs. Review case. Aviation Sector.

27:26 Cost of Action vs. Cost of Inaction. BeZero review case –Portfolio/Risk adjustment basis for offsets.

29:39 Evolution of standard methodologies and the importance of highlighting the progress across the industry in the VCMs narrative.

We are excited to present our latest episode with Sheri Hickok, the dynamic Chief Executive Officer at Climate Impact Partners. Join us as we delve into an enlightening conversation about the nuances and potential of carbon credits.

Episode Highlights:

Introduction: Meeting Sherry and Initial Impressions - 00:00

Exploring Opportunities: The Potential of Carbon Credits - 00:02:05

Technical Deep Dive: Engineering Challenges in Carbon Credit Systems - 00:04:13

Economic Insights: Efficiency and Waste Reduction in Carbon Systems - 00:06:20

Critical Discussion: Key Aspects of Carbon Credit Mechanisms - 00:08:24

Addressing Challenges: Overcoming Destructive Practices in Carbon Credits - 00:10:29

Asset Management Perspective: Bringing Financial Insights into Carbon Credits - 00:12:27

Policy and Governance: Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks for Carbon Credits - 00:14:30

Sustainability Focus: Concluding Thoughts on Long-term Viability - 00:16:40

Personal Stories: Transformative Effects of Carbon Credit Initiatives - 00:18:46

Wrapping Up: Gratitude and Reflections on the Carbon Credit Journey - 00:20:45

Tune in for a rich and engaging discussion that sheds light on the future of sustainable practices and carbon credits.

Watch now:

#CarbonExposureProject #CarbonCredits #SustainableFuture #ClimateImpactPartners

We're back with another episode of the Carbon Exposure Project (CXP), on this episode we will interview the highly experienced Benedikt Von Buttler, Portfolio Manager, Evolution Environmental Asset Management, LP.

On this episode, he will discuss:-

0:34 Perspective about market evolution & demand.

3:20 Understanding carbon offsetting.

7:00 The role of portfolio/risk management in developing VCMs.

10:00 Understanding price information and trading liquidity in VCMs. Case example: The GIO contract in reflection of demand from the aviation sector.

11:15 High Integrity to encourage more companies to act voluntarily.

11: 50 Fungibility in VCMs. From substantiating voluntary claims to compliance systems.

16:13 Private sector funds/risk signals

17:17 Governance support to give confidence to the markets.

19:40 Inaction being safer than action.

21:25 Review case –Portfolio/Risk adjustment basis for offsets to scale markets.

24:11 Hedge risk in compliance markets towards 2030 targets.

28:31 Fluctuating supply and demand and future balancing in carbon markets.

30:10 Forecasting risk past the short term.

31:40 The importance of developing demand to catch up with supply.

#cop28 #vcm #carbonmarkets

Join us on this episode of the Carbon Exposure Project (CXP) as we interview one of the top minds and voices in the climate space, Alexia Kelly, Managing Director, Carbon Policy and Markets Initiative of the High Tide Foundation. Here are some timestamps of the episode:- 0:18 - Alexia´s overview on announcements at COP on the Integrity Council for Voluntary Carbon Markets (ICVCM) and the Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative (VCMI). 3:58 - CFTC – Commodity Futures Trading Commission releasing voluntary guidance in the voluntary carbon crediting market. 4:52 - Existing voluntary standards announcing a new initiative for environment integrity. 6:46 - Highlight ICVCM’s work around processes and systems to issue credits and standardization on VCM as well as capital and climate finance mobilization into the Global South. 8:28 - DMRV - as a tool to accelerate issuance and verification processes. 12:20 - Communication initiatives to establish confidence and achieve scale on VCMs. 17:30 - IC VCM work on social benefits and core practices across VCM and its existing standards 22:14 - Thoughts around stabilizing concentration of GHG effectively while decarbonizing our economy. 23:24 - The challenges on the supply chain to achieve systemic transformation. 27:00 - The importance of both internal decarbonization and high quality carbon credits as a mechanism for residual emissions - Analysing positions against carbon credits. 31:15 - VCMs to help address and deliver mitigation opportunities.
#cop28 #vcm #carbonmarkets

Join us on this special episode of the Carbon Exposure Project COP28 UAE Special, as our host Rene Velasquez interviews Raymond Song who handles Carbon Markets and Policy at CTrees.

Don't miss this Special Christmas Episode of the Carbon Exposure Project, with Rich Gilmore (CEO, Carbon Growth Partners). On this episode, they discuss:- 1. They discuss the year past in the realm of the carbon markets, epecially looking back at COP28. 2. The underlying principles at play in supply and demand within the carbon markets the various players and drivers of demand in the space (i.e corporates and policy makers). 3. Statistics about carbon credit retirements and issuance in the year past and what they mean in terms of growth within the field (2023 was the highest number of credits retired so far). 4. An indepth explaination of Article 6 and the differences between Article 6.3 and 6.4. 5. Discussing about news of ICVCM and VCMI's collaboration in terms of setting up an integrated market integrity framework and what it means for the carbon market as a whole. 6. Discussing REDD+ (The Hows, Whys, Drivers of Progress and Proven effects to Communities and The Environment). 7. Looking foward at 2024 and what to expect based on the progress from COP28 and the year past as a whole. A not to be missed masterclass from two highly experienced and well known leaders of the Carbon Markets. #christmas #ICVCM #cop28 #markets #VCMI #santaclaus

Dive into this COP28 UAE Special episode featured by Juan David Duran Hernandez, Executive Director of EcoRegistry. In this episode, the following topics are discussed: 0:20 Ecoregistry’s functionality and its role in developing new solutions for VCM´s 4:31 Leveraging from blockchain technology to differentiate from other registries 5:35 The importance of immutability on the chain to build transparency and confidence 7:49 Ecoregistry speed and efficiency to build trust in the market 10:40 Involvement in developing a robust ecosystem to operationalize Article 6 13:50 VCMs as an innovation hub to boost the overall carbon market 15:08 VCM´s participation in the policies at the compliance level – Colombia and Singapore´s case

Join us on this special episode of the Carbon Exposure Project COP28 UAE Special, as our host Rene Velasquez interviews Anna Lerner Nesbitt, CEO of Climate Collective.

Timestamp:

0:54 Communication strategy on VCM 2.0

3:06 The importance of integrating VCM messaging

5:00 VCM as a viable solution for an urgent problem

6:26 Urgent call to leaders and businesses to tackle inaction on decarbonization

9:19 Reflecting back on a real case

12:00 Call to action on communication to scale carbon markets

For this episode, we invited Ana Haurie, CEO of Respira International. In collaboration with other organizations, Respira launched the Reduce and Invest Campaign in September, encouraging businesses to balance their carbon emissions by simultaneously reducing emissions and investing in climate solutions through the VCM. Their mission is to promote rapid decarbonization while channeling investments to accelerate global net zero. Companies must take immediate action to account for their emissions today, not just in the future. This approach benefits both the planet and businesses, driving long-term value and leadership in climate responsibility. This episode was recorded before the launch of this new campaign, but it highlights the need for such initiatives. In this episode, Rene talks with Ana about Respira, the current state of the VCM, and what is necessary to scale it. Enjoy this episode!

timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Respira

01:49 Project developers; the demand uncertainty

04:24 The returning VCM support

10:30 Solving market issues

12:30 Nature-based solutions are left behind

16:06 Reducing barriers to entry

19:10 Co-benefits should be rewarded

23:43 Insurance companies

25:26 Institutionalization of the VCM

30:43 Reingaging the demand side to scale

On this special episode of the Carbon Exposure Project COP28 UAE Special, our host Rene Velasquez interviews Sam Gill, Co-Founder and President of Sylvera.

On this special episode of the Carbon Exposure Project COP28 UAE Special, our host Rene Velasquez interviews Rich Gilmore, CEO of Carbon Growth Partners.

In this episode, our host Rene Velasquez talks to Diego Saez Gil, Co-founder and CEO of Pachama; a company that helps other companies invest in nature through high-quality carbon credits.

Dive into the first episode of our COP28 UAE series, where Marcelo Labre, co-founder and CEO of Veridios AI, engages in a dynamic conversation with our host, Rene Velasquez, live from COP28 UEA. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations with industry leaders during COP28 UAE! 00:40 Instruction on Veridios AI and how they developed 03:38 Pricing: How the prices get determined 04:54: The clients of Veridios 06:26 The Influence of SDGs on projects and pricing 08:13 How Veridios’ AI models get trained to drive the outputs 10:04 The evolving market and its evidence digitalization transition 13:34 Complementarities en differences between Rating agencies and Veridios 15:40 What is needed to scale up the carbon market

We're thrilled to have Wei Mei Hum from ACX (AirCarbon Exchange) join us this week. As the Head of Asia Pacific and Head of Carbon & Environmental Products, Wei Mei Hum plays a key role in advancing ACX (AirCarbon Exchange)'s initiatives in the region, focusing on carbon and environmental solutio​​ns.

With a rich background in climate change policy, including significant work at Singapore's National Climate Change Secretariat, Wei Mei brings deep expertise in greenhouse gas accounting and carbon markets.

Dont miss this episode where she talks to our host Rene Velasquez, about ACX's growth and evolution; blockchain technology ACX employs and its benefits interms of transparency and increasing accessibility of carbon credit trading and the inclusiveness of the Global Carbon Offset Markets in regards to its various players.

We dive deep into the world of carbon, nature, and the crucial role of scientific research in understanding and combating climate change.

Akash talks about his journey in his career as well as academics. He also shares his insights on forest recovery in the Himalayas, and delves into the tropical ecosystems of Southeast Asia from his perspective as a postdoctoral researcher.

Akash enlightens us on various scales and tools for estimating carbon amounts. From peat swamps in Southeast Asia to the intriguing use of space lasers, he gives us an insight into the latest in carbon measurement technology.

Akash discusses the ease of processing space data, the costs associated with forest plots and satellite launches, and the importance of scientific collaboration with private companies. Plus, a thought-provoking question: How would you spend a billion dollars for the planet?

Don’t miss an exciting episode with a brilliant researcher sharing his insights into nature and climate based solutions

Catch the part by part episodes on Youtube

Stay Tuned!

#CarbonExposureProject #NatureBasedSolutions #ClimateChange #vcm #carbonmarkets #netzero #climate #sustainability #carbonoffset #article6 #sdg #COP28

On this week’s episode of the Carbon Exposure Project (CXP), were thrilled to have on the show Dale Hardcastle, who oversees Bain’s global carbon market and nature-based solutions efforts.

This episode consists of three parts, where our Rene Velasquez will talk to Dale Hardcastle to get his insights about the carbon markets drawing from his role at one of the leading consultancy firms in the world.

The episodes cover topics starting from the recent developments of Carbon Markets to methods on spurring future growth; the evolulution of the carbon markets and how to get corporates involved in carbon markets.

On this week’s episode of the Carbon Exposure Project (CXP), we’re thrilled to have Duncan Van Bergen, Co-Founder of Caylx Global, a leading provider of carbon market intelligence and advisory services. Duncan is a highly respected expert on carbon markets, with over 20 years of experience working in the field advocating for the use of carbon markets in addressing climate change. He is also a thought leader regularly contributing to leading publications such as Carbon Finance, Environmental Finance, and Reuters.

This episode will consist of 4 parts, where our host Rene will talk to Duncan to draw on his experience on the carbon markets and how to progress the market’s development. This episodes covers topics starting with Calyx Global’s inception and purpose followed by Carbon ratings and theirs SDG Impacts, Improving carbon credits and markets and finally about building a carbon portfolio and Trading in the carbon markets.

Set your reminders for an enriching insight into carbon markets with an experienced and eloquent leader in the carbon space. A not to be missed episode!

#carbonmarkets #climatechange #sustainability #leadership #Media

Swati is a champion of getting young people involved in the climate space and possesses one of the sharpest minds in the world of sustainability and climate.

On this full episode, our host Rene Velasquez and Swati will discuss importance topics surrounding the importance of youth advocacy in climate sustainability; #NDCs, getting corporates involved in sustainability and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

#Carboncredits #GHGs #NDCs #SBTi

Dive deep into the world of carbon markets with Rene as he engages in a riveting three-part series with Alvin Lee, the (Head of APAC) in Puro.Earth. From the genesis of the Carbon Exposure Project to the intricacies of carbon markets, this series offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities in decarbonizing industries.

Alvin sheds light on the transformative role of Carbon Dioxide Removals (CDR) and the paradigm shifts in viewing carbon as an asset class. With discussions on corporate ventures, innovative solutions, and the future of CDR, this series is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainability and the future of our planet. Join us on this enlightening journey and be part of the conversation that's shaping our carbon-neutral future.

Our guest for this episode is Tin Dalida, Chief Operations Officer at Wovoka. Wovoka's mission is to empower communities to grow sustainable Southeast Asian forests through high-quality, nature-based carbon solutions. They have a growing pipeline of additional upland forest and mangrove restoration and conservation projects in the Philippines. In this episode, Rene and Tin talk about different topics like project development, blue carbon, co-benefits, the importance of mangroves, and the challenges project developers face.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:58 Tin’s journey & Wovoka’s work

03:42 Blue carbon and its potential

06:29 The role of mangroves for ecosystems

8:37 Mangrove protection benefits local communities

11:06 Why nature-based solutions?

15:25 Challenges as a project developer

21:33 Financing challenges

24:56 Tin’s motivation to go on with her work

In an enlightening conversation with Stephanie Russo, CSO of Carbon Growth Partners, we journey through her diverse experiences - from indigenous economic development to shaping water, energy, and carbon markets. Stephanie's unique perspective on the role of government, finance, and NGOs in the carbon trading industry is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation.

I recently sat down with Stephanie Russo over cocktails during her recent visit to Singapore to discuss the state of the carbon markets. I was fortunate to get her perspective from her vantage point as an asset manager. Stephanie has one of the most brilliant minds in the market, and it was a privilege sitting down with her and learning about her amazing journey spanning policy, NGOs, and finance.

I recently had the privilege to sit down with Dirk and Al during their recent visit to Singapore. Join us as we discuss carbon markets over cocktails.

Here's an inside look at David, who he is and what makes him tick.

In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the world of carbon markets, environmental standards, and the journey of one of the industry's most influential figures, David Antonelli. With over 15 years at the helm of Vera, David has been instrumental in shaping the standards and infrastructure that underpin today's carbon markets. From the early days of the Voluntary Carbon Standard to the evolution of Vera as a leading standard body, David's insights provide a unique window into the challenges and triumphs of building a robust environmental market.

But beyond the professional achievements, this episode is a testament to leadership, self-awareness, and the importance of taking a step back to reflect and recharge. As David embarks on a new chapter, he shares candidly about the decision to leave Vera, the importance of family, and the transformative power of taking a pause.

Whether you're deeply embedded in the carbon markets or just curious about the people driving change in the environmental sector, this episode offers a blend of professional insights and personal reflections that are both enlightening and inspiring.

Join us for a conversation that spans the intricacies of carbon markets, the challenges of organizational growth, and the personal journey of a leader who has truly made a difference.

Welcome to the Carbon Exposure Project, a platform for peer-to-peer conversations with people who are driving forward the carbon markets of tomorrow.

In this episode, we are joined by Murray Collins, CEO and Co-founder of Space Intelligence. Space Intelligence plays a crucial role in advancing nature-based solutions by delivering precise data on forest coverage and carbon storage. This data is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in nature investment decisions. The episode features a compelling discussion between two experts, each from a different field but united by a common goal: to help develop markets and mechanisms that effectively combat climate change. Timestamps: 00:42: introduction 00:42: Introduction of Murray and Space Intelligence 2:35: 3 types of satellite data 9:45: Digital MRV 11:42: Providing data to enhance insights and confidence 17:53: Murray’s career in Asia and the start of Space Intelligence 23:30: Singapore as carbon center 25:58: Space Intelligence’s part in reaching Net Zero 29:38: The strange anti-nature rhetoric of the press 36:20: A message for the media

This new CXP episode is featured by Dominic Lüdin, Chief Growth Officer at Carbonfuture. Carbonfuture aims to accelerate climate action with the Trust Infrastructure for durable carbon removal. Rene and Dominic discuss the development and growth of CDR, how CDR should be combined with carbon reduction strategies and the durability of CDR projects. Timestamp: 0:00: introduction 0:54: Introduction to Carbonfuture 3:30: Dominic’s career in carbon markets 8:24 :The development and impact of CDR 16:41 :Pioneers of the CDR market 19:55: The Trust infrastructure 22:30: Combining carbon reduction and -removal 26:46: The price of removals in the future 31:07: Durability & the CDR portfolio

The guest for this episode is Dinesh Babu Nithyanandam, Executive Director of Climate Action Data Trust. CAD trust is a decentralized metadata platform that links, aggregates, and harmonizes all major carbon credit registry data to enhance transparent accounting in line with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Topics discussed in this episode:

0:00 Introduction

0:40 Introduction of Dinesh and CAD trust

4:26 CAD Trust: Linking, Aggregating, Harmonizing

8:14 CAD Trust’s blockchain technology & benefits

11:21 The Power of Data

18:45 CAD’s funding model

26:57 Challenges

35:37 Plans for this Year

38:08 Mitigating Double Counting Risks

40:34 Evolution of CAD Trust in the Future

Due to the importance of the discussion with Rene, a representative of the VCM, and Patrick, a representative of the media that has been scrutinizing the market, we have created this highlight video. We hope this episode will foster respectful dialogue. Ultimately, both the media and the VCM should play crucial roles in scaling up efforts to address the most pressing issue we face: climate change.

In today's episode, we are joined by Patrick Greenfield, a biodiversity reporter for The Guardian. Over the past two years, Patrick has extensively covered carbon markets and their effectiveness. He has been at the forefront of media scrutiny surrounding the Voluntary Carbon Market. In this episode, Rene talks with Patrick about this media scrutiny, the effectiveness of the scheme, and whether carbon credits are worthless or worthwhile. Enjoy this very engaging discussion! Topics: 00:00 - Introduction 1:25 - Patrick’s job as a reporter and involvement in the VCM 5:50 - Negative story writing and the use of “Worthlessness” 21:20 - The ‘binary’ outcome of the VCM’s functionality 28:50 - Community impacts from carbon projects 35:07 - Scaling the VCM in the future 44:10 - The use of the term ‘worthlessness’ 49:10 - Additionality in forestry projects 55:02 - Enhancing the integrity of credits 59:05 - Solutions for the future 1:03:58 - Ratings and third-party reviews 1:13:02 - Julia’s opinion piece on the West et al. study 1:16:08 - Partnering between the VCM and the media

this episode, we're joined by Daniel Lee, an Associate Professor in Carbon Markets at the Nanyang Business School. Before transitioning to academia full-time, he spent close to 18 years in the industry, where he undertook a variety of roles across the Energy and Decarbonization value chains, including Commodity Trading, Acquisitions & Divestments, and Capital Project Delivery.

This episode's discussed topics:

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

Setting the stage for the conversation and the importance of carbon market education.

01:50 – Daniel’s Journey: From Trading Desks to Academia

A look at Daniel’s professional background, early involvement in carbon markets, and the winding path to teaching.

07:23 – Why Academia? Daniel’s Motivation to Teach

What inspired the transition from industry to education—and why giving back matters.

10:13 – Building the Carbon Market Academy at NTU

How NTU’s new initiative is shaping future talent for the carbon services and trading sector.

21:50 – Evolving Carbon Markets & The Need for Continuous Learning

Insights into the current state of carbon markets and the importance of staying sharp in a transforming space.

30:10 – Why Education is the Backbone of Climate Finance

Exploring the critical role of structured learning in empowering new and existing professionals in the space.

34:52 – What Motivates the Next Generation to Join Carbon Markets?

Understanding the perspectives, anxieties, and hopes of students and young professionals entering the field.

42:25 – Singapore’s Carbon Hub Vision

How Singapore is positioning itself as a global carbon market hub—and what’s driving its rapid ecosystem growth.

In this new episode of the Carbon Exposure Project, Rene Velasquez sits down with Oi-Yee Choo, CEO of Climate Impact X. Together, they dive into a dynamic conversation on the evolution of carbon markets, regulatory clarity, and the future of climate finance—offering sharp insights from both financial and sustainability perspectives.In this episode, the following topics are discussed:

00:00 – Intro & Oi-Yee’s path into carbon markets

06:43 – From banking to fintech to impact

11:08 – REITs, tokenization & new asset classes

15:37 – Market building: trust, structure & growth

18:15 – Risk aversion & regulatory clarity

20:36 – ASEAN cooperation & Singapore’s role

26:58 – Why governments must build confidence

29:43 – Oi-Yee's market experience as CEO

35:34 – The myth of oversupply & demand lag

38:40 – What the market needs now

44:43 – Aviation & urgency in decarbonization

48:30 – Shipping & new sectoral demand

51:39 – Tech players & CDR

57:30 – The future of the market

During the IETA European Climate Summit held in Lisbon, we spoke with some inspiring voices at the conference. In this European Climate Summit Special Episode, we're joined by Sandra Pinzón García, Founder & CEO of Global Zero Waste. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the episode!

Topics discussed in this episode:

00:00 – Introduction & Sandra’s mission in circular economy

01:26 – From carbon markets to plastic credits

02:54 – Defining circular economy: water, energy & materials

06:03 – The rise of plastic credits & Cercarbono partnership

09:04 – Building a new methodology for global recycling projects

10:24 – Innovation, R&D and project transformation

14:53 – Scaling impact through zero-waste strategies

18:37 – Sandra’s reflections on climate leadership

During the IETA European Climate Summit held in Lisbon, we spoke with some inspiring voices at the conference. In this European Climate Summit Special Episode, we're joined by David Antonioli, former Founder & CEO of Verra.Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 – Introduction

02:32 – David’s new paper: “Financing the Transitions the World Needs”

03:41 – Rethinking carbon markets: key insights from the report

06:03 – Biochar: a case for real-world carbon solutions

09:04 – Developer vs. biochar business: shifting identities

11:29 – “On paper” vs. reality in project scalability

14:58 – The “three buckets” of climate project economics

18:03 – Keeping projects operational & long-term thinking

21:03 – Market incentives and insetting as cost strategies

24:03 – Rewriting the climate narrative & new leadership

27:03 – Global insights and financial infrastructure reform

28:26 – A new paradigm for transition-focused markets

30:03 – Carbon credits as tools, not destinations