Announcing Deep Dive into Decarbonization

Motivation, what to expect and what not to expect

Science and Engineering was at the heart of innovation which drove industrial growth, since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. The result of a large number of these innovations and their subsequent commercialization are one of the causes of the climate crisis we face today. For example when modern blast furnaces were first operated in the 15th century in France, they helped manufacture cannons faster. In 2024, the blast furnace still drives steel manufacturing globally, especially in the Global South. However, it  is one of the major sources of pollution since the industry contributes to over 7% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. 

Science and Engineering will once again play a critical role for us to solve this crisis through fundamental research and process innovation. Reaching the desired scale and novelty of innovation and eventually deploying it is a looming challenge. Much of the energy of the climate sector is lost in engaging and negotiating with stakeholders to implement these solutions to make a last ditch attempt to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius of pre-industrial levels. 

Deep Dive into Decarbonization (with all my love for extended alliterations) is dedicated to diving deep into the science, engineering, policy and innovation of decarbonization to reach the North Star of a near net-zero world and limiting global warming.  

There is vast literature defining the various underlying symptoms of the climate crisis and perhaps even more vast literature describing its negative impact on life. However, there is a need for shifting the conversation to solutions. Not saying that we don’t define problems but focusing on how to solve them will be more productive for us today and definitely for our tomorrow. 

So what will this newsletter cover and what are we looking to unpack in this journey?

1. Latest scientific updates on decarbonization technologies 

For example, developments in carbon capture and conversion driven by research and development. Are there any prospects for commercialization and which industry will benefit from such technology?

2. Public policy announcements favoring implementation of decarbonization 

Governments worldwide are developing their policy packages to enable a green transition. Many of us try to analyze what incentives or accountability mechanisms they can implement, how likely it is to reduce emissions. We will showcase innovative policy packages, geopolitical treaties and multilateral coalitions and the evaluations of successful policies which serve as an important learning for us. Why is this policy likely to succeed or what in its design and implementation made it successful?

3. Startup showcases

This is perhaps the most significant section since without innovative solutions which can be commercialized and deployed at scale, a transition won’t be possible. In subsequent newsletters we will look to analyze: What problem is the startup solving and why is it an important solution? What are the factors that might make it successful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions?

4. Case studies of successful implementation by the industry

Legacy corporations have been major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. A study found that 100 of the world’s corporations were responsible for over 70% of greenhouse gas emissions. This section will focus on achievements the corporate world has made to make its operations sustainable. What is the decarbonization strategy implemented by an organization? How has it helped them reach their climate targets?

In addition, this newsletter will include vital updates from leading philanthropic institutions and financiers investing in decarbonization technologies. In the future the aspiration is to include voices from the community to highlight the impact of climate change on the lives and health of those living in climate vulnerable communities such as those surrounding coal plants, steel mills and chemical refineries. Apart from the fortnightly newsletter, I will publish a deep dive into an emerging area of focus in climate change especially in industrial decarbonization. If there are other specific areas you would like me to cover do drop a line in the comments or feel free to inbox me.

While the attempt will remain to cater to a generic reader looking to gain knowledge, I believe that this may best appeal to a Climate and Energy professional across the industry. McKinsey estimates that by 2030 there will be more than $12 trillion of yearly revenues in 11 high potential industries as the climate transition progresses. With the large opportunity to invest and make money, my personal aspiration is that Deep Dive into Decarbonization eventually influences some of that capital flow. 

What will this newsletter not cover? 

In subsequent editions of this newsletter you will not find jobs and events listings. There are hundreds of newsletters which do a much better job of curating these and I will subsequently just create a list for readers to access those instead. This newsletter will also not include how-to guides for landing jobs or selecting college and graduate school programs. Once again there are many good content creators across platforms who do a better job at this. 

This newsletter will serve the purpose of furthering conversations on solutions to climate change especially grounded in Science and Engineering. Solutions stemming from public policy, civil society movements and corporate sustainability programs will add to the mix. Hopefully following this space will inspire and spark hope that solving the climate crisis is achievable. 

The logo for Deep Dive into Decarbonization is designed by my former student during my Teach For India days, Pushpa Santosh Jaiswar, who is a rising communications and design professional based in Mumbai currently running Clickedits. If you are seeking a creative designer who can help with your requirements, do reach out to Pushpa and her team at Clickedits.

Image credits: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, New York Times