What On Earth!

Rebuilding the Future

Send a textIn this episode of What On Earth!, we dive into what we really mean by the term “built environment” and why transforming it is essential to achieving a net zero world.Our guest, Paul Weston of Box Twenty, breaks down the regulatory landscape shaping the sector and explains how government policy is accelerating improvements in building performance and sustainability.We explore what “good” looks like today—beyond merely meeting compliance—and how evolving technology, design innovation, and shifting market demand are pushing the industry toward genuine excellence.A resilient, low-carbon built environment is critical to our future. Tune in to understand how the industry is changing, what progress looks like in practice, and where the biggest opportunities lie.

What On Earth! Is The Net Zero Future

Send a textEnergy Transition 101 – In this episode, we cut through the noise and take a clear-eyed look at what a coherent, apolitical energy transition really involves.Joining us are three experts from Apollo at the frontlines of decarbonisation:·        Phil Westmorland, Director of Decarbonisation·        Nigel Robinson, Director of Marine Energies·        Calum Westland, Head of Industrial DecarbonisationTogether, they unpack the fundamentals of the energy transition—from system redesign and industrial challenges to the social behaviours needed for a net zero world. We even squeeze in a quick detour into Sankey diagrams (Phil’s guilty pleasure) and ask the slightly absurd but revealing question: Could a team of Tour de France cyclists power your home?This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move beyond the headlines and dive into the real, practical questions around net zero—and its surprising complexities.

Concept to Kilowatt – How Net Zero Projects Succeed

Send a textIn this episode of What On Earth!, we’re joined by Ross Fairley, Senior Partner at Burges & Salmon, who brings over 30 years of experience in renewable energy projects to the table.We dig into what project success really looks like — and what it takes to get there. From assembling the right team to securing Final Investment Decision (FID), Ross shares hard-earned insights from decades in the field.🔍 In this episode:What separates successful renewable energy projects from those that fall shortThe critical roles and qualities developers should seek in their teamsHow the landscape is shifting as the “easy” project sites disappearThe increasing complexity of renewable projects — and how to navigate itRoss’s one bold idea that could unlock more successful projectsWhether you're a developer, investor, policymaker, or just curious about the evolving energy transition, this episode offers a front-row seat to the real-world challenges and solutions in the sector.

Women in STEM (live recording)

Send a textSomething a bit different for What On Earth! We were delighted to recently record a live podcast at a SPARC event at Pembrokeshire College, West Wales. The event saw over 150 female STEM students from around Pembrokeshire come together at the college for a STEM focussed day led by the What On Earth! podcast which saw our own Michelle Hitches chair a panel event with Louise McDonnel from RWE along with Madeline Cowley of Marine Power Systems. The panel led by Michelle talked about their STEM journeys and experiences in renewable energy ending with an audience Q&A. We loved the energy in the room and the engagement from the students. A great episode that we know you will like! We reference Jonathan's recent Linked In post on the subject https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7313834203383488512/ 

Transforming Oil and Gas

Send a textIn this episode we talk to Donna Sutherland from Veri Energy about the challenges and opportunities facing oil and gas. Our focus is on Sullom Voe Terminal (SVT) in the Shetland Isles and the opportunity its unique proximity to legacy oil and gas infrastructure, water and renewable electricity will enable a genesis of the site in the net zero world. However there are challenges! We discuss government policy and support for projects like SVT and what needs to happen to enable investment in such projects. We look at social barriers and behaviours that need to change to allow a "right" transition. And we ask Donna if she was given one wish of government what would that be!