VX News is the editorial voice of the annual VerdeXchange Conference, featuring in-depth interviews with industry leaders and policymakers driving innovation in clean energy, water, transportation, and climate policy.
Lauren Faber O’Connor on Scaling Tech That Wins — The Unf**ck Thesis
In conversation with VX News, climate veteran Lauren Faber O’Connor—now at Lowercarbon Capital and formerly with the City of Los Angeles, CalEPA, EDF, and the UK Foreign Office—argues that the next era of decarbonization won’t hinge on policy ambition, but on technologies that simply outperform the fossil economy. Her message is direct: if governments drop their perfectionism and engage early with innovators, and if private capital keeps scaling these breakthroughs, we have the tools to unf**k the planet while actually improving daily life.
Sir Andrew Steer on Catalyzing Climate Finance — Net Zero Delivery Summit
At the Net Zero Delivery Summit, Sir Andrew Steer emphasized the new economics of climate change, arguing that it is no longer just an environmental issue but a growth opportunity for the 21st century. He stated that bold action can drive economic efficiency, new technologies, and lower risks. Steer also highlighted the critical role of the private sector and the need for transition finance to help industries decarbonize. He stressed the importance of balancing a sense of "fear and dread" with "hope and possibility" to motivate action, and urged for a shift away from disagreements and towards building broad public support for the transition.
Newsom Admin Responds to US Senate Vote to Overturn California's Clean Car & Truck Rules
VX News excerpts the response from CARB Chair Liane Randolph, CA Attorney General Rob Bonta, and CA Governor Gavin Newsom who vow litigation to uphold the state's nation-leading clean air rules and underscore the economic advantages of advancing zero-emissions vehicles as global markets press forward on decarbonizing transportation.
