Planet Positive Pulse - 🌍 Professionals Pulling No Punches & Raising the Alarm 🚨
Welcome to the first edition of the Planet Positive Pulse bulletin! 🌱✨ This regular summary piece is dedicated to shedding light on the real challenges we face from climate change, while also showcasing the individuals and initiatives working to create solutions. If you've ever felt that mainstream narratives about the future — particularly those coming from the wealth management industry — seem disconnected from the realities of climate science, you're not alone!
Last week, I attended a webinar featuring alternative economist Steve Keen, hosted by the Institute & Faculty of Actuaries. Keen is at the forefront of exposing the dangerous disconnect between mainstream economic models and climate science. He did not hold back (!) in debunking some of the widely accepted but deeply flawed economic assumptions that shape government policies and financial strategies worldwide.
One particular insight struck me: while climate scientists warn that a 5°C temperature rise could potentially lead to civilization collapse(!), some mainstream economists suggest it would only reduce global GDP by 12%. This kind of flawed logic is not just theoretical — it underpins real-world decision-making in government and finance, leading to dangerously inadequate responses to the climate crisis. Just to put this in perspective: the LA wildfires in January alone are estimated by some to have caused $250 billion in damages — about 1% of US GDP in just one month🔥🌎. That is from just 1 event alone!
The good news? 🎉 There are professionals, particularly in the actuarial field, working to challenge these flawed economic models and push for more responsible decision-making. My aim is to highlight such efforts here, along with stories of progress and hope. 💡💚
These stark climate projections are difficult for us to come to terms with, and even more disheartening given the constant stream of negative news on climate change. To counteract the negative filter of mainstream news, this bulletin aims to bring a dose of positivity by helping to balance realism with solutions and progress. 🌞🌱.
I’ll also keep you updated on the latest sustainable investing news and climate job openings, so you can put both your money and skills to work for a better future — for yourself and the planet. This publication comes from Planet Positive Planning, my solo life and financial planning business, and a proud member of the UK's Academy of Life Planners. I'll share some of the latest insights from the Academy, to help support your journey toward a more purposeful, planet-positive life.
Each issue, I’ll cover:
- 🌟 Positive Climate News – Because we all need to hear about the wins, big and small.
- 🚀 Inspiring Climate Start-ups – Changemakers building real solutions.
- 💰 Sustainable Investing Updates – Insights to help align your money with your values.
- 🔍 Climate Job Openings – Opportunities to use your skills for a better future.
- 📖 Academy of Life Planners Insights – To help you lead a more purposeful, planet-positive life.
This is just the beginning, and I’d love to hear from you! 💬 What resonates? What would you like to see more of? Let’s make this a space for meaningful conversations and collective action. 🌎💪
Thanks for being here — I’m excited for what’s ahead! 🚀✨
🌟 Positive Climate News
Encouraging Progress in the Energy Transition
The RMI has produced an encouraging summary of global advancements in clean energy and climate action. Despite challenges, 2024 saw record-breaking progress, setting the stage for an even stronger 2025.
- Falling Costs Driving a Cleantech Boom
Solar module prices dropped 35% to 9 cents/kWh, while EV battery costs fell below $100/kWh, bringing price parity to China and soon to Europe and the US. Battery technology is also improving, with better safety, efficiency, and longevity, reinforcing a virtuous cycle of adoption and cost reduction. - Global Adoption of Renewables & EVs
Renewable energy additions grew 17%, with solar hitting a record 600 GW and grid storage nearly doubling to 170 GWh. Renewables now outpace fossil fuel investments 10 to 1 and are set to surpass coal as the leading power source in 2025. Meanwhile, EV sales rose 25% — led by China, where over half of new cars sold since July have been electric. - Policy Moving from Pledges to Action
Governments are taking decisive steps: The EU, UK, and Mexico have strengthened climate targets, and all G20 nations now have net-zero goals. Indonesia has committed to retiring all fossil fuel power plants within 15 years, and Ethiopia became the first nation to ban non-electric car imports, citing air quality and economic benefits. - Optimistic Global Outlooks
The world is making faster progress toward its 2030 renewable energy goals, with grid storage also exceeding expectations. Fossil fuel emissions rose slightly in 2024, but multiple analyses suggest they could peak and decline in 2025. Many nations are already past peak demand for gas and gasoline, pushing the IEA to continually revise its forecasts for renewables upward while lowering fossil fuel projections.
Nature Rebounding in the North Sea
As reported in the Guardian, thanks to marine protections, bottlenose dolphins are calving off Yorkshire for the first time in decades, while grey seal populations in Norfolk have reached record highs — offering hope for one of the world's most heavily exploited marine ecosystems.
🚀 Inspiring Climate Start-up
Calcin8: Decarbonising Lime & Cement Production
Calcin8 is revolutionising lime and cement production with a novel kiln design that cuts CO₂ emissions by ~95%. Lime, a $42B global market essential for industries like steel, construction, and water treatment, currently generates ~1 tonne of CO₂ per tonne produced. Calcin8’s technology enables greener, circular, and decentralised lime production, turning lime into a carbon sink.
Key Innovations:
✅ Renewably Powered Kilns – Runs on renewable energy with built-in CO₂ capture for permanent sequestration.
✅ Low-Value Feedstocks – Utilises materials with limited other uses, reducing costs and enhancing sustainability.
✅ Maximising Mineral Carbonation – For every 10 tonnes of lime produced, up to 7.86 tonnes of CO₂ can be removed from the atmosphere.
Beyond lime, this technology will serve as a springboard for decarbonising cement, a sector responsible for 8% of global CO₂ emissions.
💰 Sustainable Investing Updates
PensionBee Launches Climate Plan for Sustainable Pensions
PensionBee has introduced its Climate Plan, setting a new standard for climate-focused pensions. The plan excludes fossil fuel producers and commits to reducing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of its investments by at least 10% annually, exceeding the EU’s 7% benchmark.
Key Features:
✅ Strict Exclusions – Removes companies involved in fossil fuels, unsustainable palm oil, weapons, gambling, alcohol, tobacco, for-profit prisons, and environmental controversies.
✅ Customer-Led Design – 62% of surveyed customers supported carbon reduction, and 98% backed broader exclusions.
✅ Paris Agreement-Aligned – Helps pension holders align their investments with the 1.5°C climate goal.
✅ Green Revenue Focus – Prioritises investments in companies benefiting from the low-carbon transition.
Clare Reilly, Chief Engagement Officer, emphasised that the Climate Plan is a direct response to customer demand and evolving environmental challenges.
With a 0.75% annual management fee, the plan offers an accessible way for consumers to invest in a sustainable future.
State Street Global Advisors manages this fund. If we take a look at its benchmark, we’ll see that there are other exchange-traded fund ("ETF") alternatives out there that track something similar but come with lower fees — JustETF is a great resource to explore them.
This news simply provides information and does not offer investment advice on whether this is a suitable investment for you.
🔍 Climate Job Openings
Patch: Scaling Climate Solutions Through Carbon Markets
Patch leverages technology and carbon market expertise to help companies develop and execute high-impact carbon credit strategies. Their platform enables businesses to navigate the voluntary carbon market, supporting investment in high-integrity projects that drive meaningful climate action. Having already assisted hundreds of companies in meeting sustainability goals, Patch is accelerating the transition to a livable future.
They currently have three hybrid full-time job openings in London:
- Carbon Markets Lead
- Enterprise Account Executive
- Climate Integrity Lead
Energy Adviser – UK Government (Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology)
The UK Government is hiring an Energy Adviser to provide impartial, peer-reviewed briefings that make scientific evidence accessible to Parliamentarians. This role involves overseeing energy-related work at POST, shaping future research programmes, and supervising academic placements. Responsibilities also include compiling briefing materials on energy and climate policy and supporting parliamentary select committees with expert insights.
📍 Location: London, UK (House of Commons)
💼 Experience: Junior (1-4 years) | Education: Master’s degree
💰 Salary: £41,340 - £47,975
📅 Applications Close: 21st February 2025
Environmental Defense Fund: Innovative Solutions for Climate & Communities
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is a leading nonprofit dedicated to stabilising the climate while fostering strong, healthy communities. Known for its innovative, people-centred approach, EDF collaborates with governments, businesses, NGOs, and local communities to tackle climate challenges — from reducing emissions and protecting rainforests to advancing clean air initiatives.
📌 Job Opening: Data Integration Methane Scientist
🌍 Location: Remote (Spain, Netherlands, or UK)
This bulletin is primarily aimed at a UK audience, and so I'll include any interesting job openings with a UK location. If there are readers who would like me to include other countries, please reach out.
📖 Academy of Life Planners Insights
Ethical Investing: You Don’t Need a Product Seller
Ethical investing lets you align your money with your values, but navigating the options can be overwhelming — especially when advice comes from those selling financial products. This article reveals how working with an unbiased financial professional can help you cut through the noise, understand ESG investing, and make informed decisions that drive real impact — without sacrificing returns.
With younger generations leading the shift, many still don’t realise they have the power to shape a better world through their investments. Ethical investing isn’t complex or restrictive — it’s an opportunity. Read the full article to discover how you can take control of your financial future with clarity and confidence!
5 Tips from Businesses to Boost Your Personal Development
Businesses succeed by leveraging their strengths, solving problems, and seizing opportunities — principles that can also transform your personal development. This article explores five key lessons from successful businesses, including recognising your unique skills (human capital), defining yourself by the problems you solve, and building confidence to pursue new opportunities. By applying these strategies, you can unlock your potential, achieve financial independence, and create a more fulfilling life.
Want to design your ideal future? Learn how to reverse-engineer your dream life and build a personal brand that attracts opportunities and trust. Check out the full article for practical insights on turning business strategies into personal success!
The Personal Development Cycle: From Creation to Manifestation
Personal growth follows a natural cycle — just like the changing seasons. This article explores how the Personal Development Cycle mirrors nature’s rhythms, guiding us from vision (Winter Solstice) to action (Spring), manifestation (Summer), and reflection (Autumn). By honouring each stage, we can align our goals with our values, ensuring lasting transformation. The LIFE or GAME Plan (Goals, Actions, Means, Execution) helps structure this journey, creating a roadmap for meaningful change in both personal and professional life.
Understanding this cycle is key to unlocking balance and fulfilment. By integrating timeless wisdom with modern psychological insights, we can break free from limiting beliefs, embrace new opportunities, and cultivate a life of purpose. In this article discover how aligning with this cycle can empower you to take control of your growth and success!
Curious to find out more about a Planet Positive version of the GAME Plan, then check out the Planet Positive Planning website.
Copyright Planet Positive Planning Limited. Contact me by email at neil@planetpositiveplanning.com. Planet Positive Planning Limited is a service sector trading company, providing "educational financial services" and regulated by the Competition and Markets Authority and Registered in England and Wales number 15759784. As defined by PERG8.26 of the FCA Handbook, these services do not require FCA regulation. Registered office address 2 Joshua Pedley Mews, London, E3 2ZE, United Kingdom. Information Commissioner's Office reference number C1531204.
