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