140. Every Country Could Be Carbon Negative with Erika Mouynes

“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!   —   Christiana + Tom’s book ‘The Future We Choose’ is available now! Subscribe to our Climate Action Newsletter!   —   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    —   Thanks to our guest this week, Minister Erika Mouynes!   Erika Mouynes  Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Panama Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn   Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Panamá Twitter | LinkedIn   —   African Fusion Soul Group ‘Ganda Boys’ are our musical guest!   Ganda Boys Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube (Note from Clay - Be sure to check out their YouTube)   Ganda Foundation  Website   —   Keep up with Christiana Figueres online: Instagram | Twitter   Tom Rivett-Carnac: Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn   Paul Dickinson: LinkedIn | Twitter   —   Follow @GlobalOptimism on social media and send us a message! Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn   Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss another episode of Outrage + Optimism!