We are joined by Sigfried Tivana, assistant director at the Department of Science and Innovation in South Africa and co-coordinator of LEAP-RE. Sigfried discusses the pressing energy challenges facing South Africa, from access issues to the sustainability of current energy practices. He also shares the challenges of piloting such a large program as LEAP-RE and what the future holds for this initiative. More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]

This episode explores the critical issues of sustainability and equity in electricity access. Marine Cornelis, an expert in energy policy and public affairs, discusses her work on the EURICA project in Madagascar and Burkina Faso, two regions facing significant yet different energy challenges. Marine's insights into the practicalities of providing quality electricity access offer a sobering look at the hurdles that remain in the quest for energy equity. More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]

In this episode, we shift our focus to Kenya, where Anne Wacera Wambugu, an electrical engineer and researcher at Strathmore University in Nairobi, discusses the current state of renewable energy development and its future prospects. Anne sheds light on the pressing issue of electricity quality and equipment disparities, particularly in solar energy production, and highlights the need to empower women in this field. More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]

In the opening episode of our series, Leonard Lévêque, project manager at LGI and co-coordinator of LEAP-RE, provides an overview of the renewable energy landscape across the African Union. Leonard emphasises the crucial importance of developing renewable energy sources in Africa, not just to meet growing energy demands, but as a pivotal strategy for sustainable development. More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]

Nearly 110 billion tons. This is the amount of material extracted from Earth in 2024 alone, according to the Global Resources Outlook by the United Nations Environment Program. The stark increase from approximately 30 billion tons in 1970 underlines the accelerating pace of global consumption. A circular economy is vital for a sustainable future. It challenges the traditional, linear "take-make-waste" model, advocating for a system where resources are reused, repaired and recycled extensively. This method not only reduces waste but ensures that we maximise the utility of materials throughout their lifecycle. Mathilde Legay, Circular Economy Strategist at LGI, is the guest of this episode's Pardon My Planet podcast. She brings deep insights into how businesses and individuals can adopt circular practices, and shares innovative strategies that are making significant impacts that contribute to a more sustainable future. More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]

According to a report by the United Nations, it is said that 70% of the world population will live in urban areas by 2050. And with the expansion of urbanised spaces comes the challenge of not only protecting but also reintroducing nature in cities. Where do we find enough funding and do we convince investors that it is the future of cities? Pierre Cattoire, Sustainable Innovation Strategist at LGI, is the guest of Pardon My Planet podcast.  He leads a study for Clearing House, an European-Chinese project that aims to bring the forest and nature inside the cities. This study especially focuses on business models and investment cases for urban forest Nature-based Solutions (NbS). More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]

In this episode, we delve into the world of advanced biofuels! Today, we spotlight an innovative European project called BL2F, which is pioneering a technology to produce sustainable fuel for transport, including aviation and maritime sectors, from an unexpected source: black liquor.  Joining us for this enlightening discussion is Adéola Jaiyeola, Sustainable Innovation Analyst at LGI, who will guide us through the landscape of current fuel options and why it's crucial to invest in environmentally-friendly technologies. Tune in as we explore the future of sustainable transport and the role of advanced biofuels in shaping a cleaner, greener world. More information on: lgi.earth/podcast [https://lgi.earth/podcast/]