How Surfing Can Save the Planet

With Chad Nelsen,
CEO, Surfrider Foundation
In this episode of the Climate Rebels Podcast, we welcome Chad Nelsen, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation. During the conversation, Chad discusses his journey in volunteering with Surfrider to eventually becoming the CEO. He also discusses how the ocean can be both the savior and solution in climate change, how surfonomics helps protect conservation while supporting tourism of coastal and surf communities, the struggle of builders vs behaviorists and how they are actually in sync, playing the long game in solutions for lasting change, and more.

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • What to look for in this episode with Chad (1:19)
  • Science corner: breaking down net zero energy buildings (3:15)
  • How is Chad a climate rebel? (9:26)
  • Chad’s journey with the Surfrider Foundation (12:13)
  • The ocean’s role in fighting the climate crisis (17:08)
  • How grassroots activism can help address climate issues (21:14)
  • The concept of surfionomics and why it is so important (26:36)
  • Builders vs behaviorists and how they are synergistic (35:48)
  • Playing the long-game in creating sustainable solutions for the cause (41:27)
  • Selling the vision of protecting the ocean (44:21)
  • What gives Chad hope for the future? (51:01) 
  • Connecting with Chad and Surfrider and getting involved (53:27)

 

The Climate Rebels Podcast is presented by Rayven. The climate conversation has never been hotter. As disruptors in this space, we’re hungry to find solutions to the challenges our planet faces. We celebrate the doers, those taking action against climate change and executing on their vision for a better future. You’ll hear from us, as well as leaders in science, tech, and business, as we all take steps to decrease carbon and reach net zero. The tone will be edgy, authentic, optimistic and unafraid to call out BS. Thanks for joining the conversation. Be part of the revolution at joinrayven.com.

About the Hosts

Joel Cesare
Joel Cesare is a visionary leader in sustainable real estate, currently serving as Growth Lead at Cambio, an AI building retrofit analytics platform. He previously led Google's $50B global net zero real estate program and oversaw the building of Santa Monica's City Hall East, one of the world's greenest buildings. Recognized with awards like ENR Top 25 Newsmaker, Living Future Hero, Building Design & Construction 40 under 40, his mission is to dream, inspire and deliver.
Owen Barrett
Owen Barrett is the world's foremost expert in solar on multifamily properties. Owen is currently the CEO of Shine and has over 12 years of experience in the clean technology sector covering fuel cells, HVAC, LED lighting, and of course, solar. Owen is the former Global Energy Manager of a Fortune 500 company and a successful founder with two exits.

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