From Polluter to Solution: Cement’s New Revolution

With Miles Haladay,
Chief Operating Officer, Concrete Transition Capital
In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Miles Haladay, COO of Concrete Transition Capital, joins Joel and Owen to discuss the environmental challenges and opportunities of decarbonizing the concrete industry. The conversation covers the massive global impact of concrete, innovative technologies for low-carbon production, the crucial role of finance and data, and the accelerating influence of AI and software in sustainability. Key takeaways include the importance of focused action, collaboration across industries, optimism about scaling climate solutions despite persistent challenges, and so much more.

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • Previewing Today’s Guest and the Topic of Concrete Decarbonization (0:48)
  • Financial Barriers to Scaling Green Construction (3:35)
  • Optimism and Market Opportunities for Solar Without Tax Credits (6:41)
  • Using AI for Energy Efficiency in Real Estate (10:24)
  • The Environmental Impact and Challenges of Concrete (13:00)
  • Pathways to Decarbonize Cement and Concrete (16:44)
  • The Scale of the Global Cement Emissions Problem (22:14)
  • Finance, Innovation, and Industry Hurdles for New Cement Plants (28:27)
  • Tech Companies’ Demand and Environmental Attribute Credits (30:30)
  • The Role of AI and Software in Accelerating Decarbonization (38:23)
  • The Need for Action Over Endless Measurement in Sustainability (42:23)
  • Reflections on Risk, Focus, and the Future of Green Building (47:11)
  • Closing Thoughts and Miles’s Optimism for the Industry (50:03)

 

The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.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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