Green Wall Street: Transforming Finance for Sustainability with Peter Fusaro | S.1E.108

The Sustainability Journey- by Samuele Tini

"The good news is after 54 years working in sustainability... we are in the beginning of the biggest change I've ever seen globally in the world.”

In this insightful episode, we are joined by Peter Fusaro, a global sustainability expert, author, and the founder of the Wall Street Green Summit, the most comprehensive sustainable finance event in the world. The summit was launched in 2002 and it has reached its 23rd edition, from 12th March 2024 in New York . Peter shares his experience as professor, energy and finance expert.

to learn more https://www.thewallstreetgreensummit.com/

Key points discussed.

1. Sustainability and Green Finance Intersection: Peter Fusaro discussed the merging of sustainability and finance, particularly the unique combination of green initiatives and Wall Street.
2. Early Involvement in Sustainability: Fusaro shared his journey in sustainability, starting from participating in the first Earth Day event in 1970, leading to his extensive career focused on energy and the environment.
3. Energy's Role in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: He emphasized that energy accounts for a significant portion (73%) of greenhouse gases, highlighting the sector's pivotal role in sustainability efforts.
4. Sustainable Finance and Education: Fusaro's work in sustainable finance education, including his role as a professor at Columbia University, where he taught renewable energy project finance.
5. Innovations in Energy and Environment: Discussion on various innovations such as hydrogen for transportation, energy storage technologies, and the evolution of battery technology including alternative materials like zinc air and airflow batteries.
6. Carbon Markets and Credits: The importance of carbon markets in sustainability, distinguishing between compliance and voluntary markets, and addressing the challenges and criticisms faced by carbon credit systems.
7. Challenges and Opportunities in Sustainable Projects: Discussion on various sustainable projects such as microgrids in developing countries, agroforestry in Peru, and sustainable fishing practices.
8. Mentorship and Support for Young Professionals: Fusaro shared insights on mentoring young professionals and students, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the field of sustainability.
9. Investment and Business Development in Sustainability: He talked about different classes of investors in sustainable projects and the role of big corporations in adopting and integrating new sustainable technologies.
10. The Role of Technology and Policy in Sustainability: The podcast covered how advancements in technology and supportive public policies are crucial for effective sustainability initiatives.
11. Global South and Sustainability Initiatives: Fusaro pointed out the importance of focusing on the Global South for sustainable development, highlighting opportunities for technological leapfrogging in these regions.
12. Need for Patient Capital in Sustainability Ventures: He stressed the necessity of patient capital for long-term impact in sustainable finance, highlighting the slow but incremental nature of change in this sector.