Understanding Systems and Climate Action

The speaker shares a personal story about their grandfather's choice to pursue mathematics over coal mining, leading to a career focused on patterns and systems. They discuss the importance of transitioning to a zero-carbon future by applying three rules: harnessing ambition loops, setting exponential goals, and following shared action pathways. The shipping industry is used as an example of how these rules can be applied. The speaker emphasizes the power of positive storytelling in driving change and fostering collaboration and innovation.

What inspired the speaker to pursue a career in mathematics?

• A fascination with patterns

• A scholarship opportunity

• A family tradition in teaching

• A love for coal mining

What is the speaker's role in addressing climate change?

• United Nations Climate Action Champion

• CEO of a renewable energy company

• Environmental activist

• Government policy advisor

How does the speaker define a system?

• A collection of random events

• A set of interconnected relationships

• A series of unrelated actions

• A group of isolated patterns

What is an ambition loop according to the speaker?

• A cycle of repeated failures

• A feedback loop driving higher ambition

• A loop of constant setbacks

• A series of unrelated goals

What is the significance of setting exponential goals?

• They lead to rapid transformation

• They ensure slow progress

• They maintain the status quo

• They discourage innovation

Which company has committed to buying its first zero-carbon vessel?

• ExxonMobil

• BP

• Maersk

• Shell

What action did German utility Juniper take regarding green infrastructure?

• Invested in coal plants

• Abandoned gas infrastructure plans

• Built new oil refineries

• Expanded nuclear facilities

How are technology companies contributing to the shipping industry's transformation?

• By opposing green initiatives

• By reducing renewable energy research

• By increasing fossil fuel usage

• By forming the Green Hydrogen Catapult

What is the role of storytelling in climate action according to the speaker?

• To spread fear and failure

• To inspire collaboration and innovation

• To discourage positive change

• To focus on past mistakes

What natural phenomenon does the speaker compare to human collaboration?

• The growth of trees

• The blooming of flowers

• The flocking of starlings

• The migration of whales