140. Every Country Could Be Carbon Negative with Erika Mouynes

By Global Optimism

Outrage + Optimism

24/02/22·55m 4s

“It doesn’t matter what your economy is. It’s just a matter of deciding of protecting your areas and committing to it.”

Last week it was reported that the world’s governments are currently subsidizing our own destruction to the tune of $1.8 Trillion a year…yeah. Not good. What does it look like to turn these subsidies around to promote nature, clean energy, and equitable access to energy across continents?

Maybe this week we have the answer, because in the midst of those irresponsible subsidies, this week we present a story of responsibility, political courage, and negativity! …The good kind.

Erika Mouynes is the Minister of Foreign Affairs from Panama, a country that recently attained certified Carbon Negative status. How does a country with a fleet of ships that is the 8th largest emitter of greenhouse gases and an economy based on global trade go carbon negative? Minister Mouynes tells all in our interview.

From implementing a Greenhouse Gas Emissions Fee, to the indigenous protection of land, and even some eco-surveillance in space, today’s episode is all about how a Minister of Forein Affairs goes absolutely Environmental.

And stick around ‘til the end for the African Fusion Soul stylings of ‘Ganda Boys’.

Enjoy the show!

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Mentioned links from the episode:

READ: ROADMAP TO REGENERATION: THE EARTHSHOT PRIZE SELECTION PRIORITIES 2022

READ: The Guardian - “World spends $1.8tn a year on subsidies that harm environment, study finds”

READ: Yuval Noah Harari’s 2% More Campaign

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Thanks to our guest this week, Minister Erika Mouynes!