This month, audiences can screen Net Zero Speaks with Florian Graichen on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is part of the Net Zero series curated by the Protect Our Planet Movement and Planet Classroom.
In Net Zero Speaks with Florian Graichen, Youth climate activist Drishya Pathak interviews Florian Graichen, General Manager at Scion, New Zealand’s Crown Research Institute, about replacing petrochemicals with tree-derived biomaterials.
Audiences will be able to learn more about sustainable manufacturing, biorefineries, and Scion’s eco-initiatives. Florian also offers insights to inspire youth climate leaders in biomaterial development and climate action.
The Global Search for Education is pleased to welcome Drishya Pathak.
Why did you want to interview Dr. Florian Graichen? What inspired you about his work?
Dr. Florian Graichen, as the General Manager for Scion’s Bioproducts and Biomanufacturing Areas, oversees portfolios related to high-value biorefineries, distributed and circular manufacturing, bioproducts, and packaging. His commitment to finding sustainable solutions is what inspired me to interview him. His leadership and influence in the field are quite visible through the recognitions he has received from the Ministry of New Zealand.
What surprised you most about your interview with him?
What surprised me most was the level of innovation, the broad range of applications, and the forward-thinking strategies that Dr. Graichen and his team at Scion are actively pursuing in their mission to transition away from petrochemicals.
His discussion about distributed manufacturing and biorefineries was eye-opening. The concept of taking the refining process closer to the sources of raw materials, such as agricultural or horticultural waste and seaweed, rather than relying on centralised systems, presents a fresh perspective on creating a stable and sustainable economy. This decentralised approach not only minimises transportation costs and emissions but also opens up new possibilities for turning these materials into valuable building blocks for various industries.
Can you give us your 3 main takeaways from this interview?
I’d say the importance of Active Engagement in Key Organisations: Dr. Graichen’s active involvement in key organisations and initiatives highlights the significance of collective efforts in driving the transition towards a Net Zero future. He has demonstrated that being at the forefront of organisations dedicated to sustainability and innovation can lead to specific solutions and meaningful progress.
Second, Dr. Graichen’s call to focus on organisations that are not actively working to reduce their carbon footprint or seeking alternatives to crude oil is a critical message. It underscores the importance of accountability in the journey towards Net Zero emissions.
Finally, Inspiring the Next Generation: Dr. Graichen’s approach to communicating the importance of environmental conservation to the next generation is inspirational. His passion for linking technology and sustainability can serve as a model for engaging and educating future leaders.
Thank you Drishya!
C. M. Rubin and Drishya Pathak
Don’t miss Net Zero Speaks with Florian Graichen, now streaming on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is curated by the Protect Our Planet Movement and Planet Classroom.
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