098: Brilliant Planet - Harnessing the Power of Algae in the Desert with Dr. Raffael Jovine

098: Brilliant Planet - Harnessing the Power of Algae in the Desert with Dr. Raffael Jovine

Author: Marjorie Alexander July 26, 2022 Duration: 1:01:10

Raffael Jovine trained in molecular biophysics and biochemistry at Yale, did his PhD in marine sciences at UC Santa Barbara, and completed research at MIT. In 2013, he founded and is now chief scientist of Brilliant Planet, a company that uses seawater, sunlight, and wind to grow food in coastal deserts, replicating algal blooms. He is married with five children and lives in London.

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In this episode Marjorie and Raffael discuss:

  • The ideal environment for algae to bloom
  • How growing algae in the sand creates multiple opportunities for coastal desert communities
  • The importance of partnerships when solving hyper-local climate challenges
  • Dr. Jovine's new book How Light Makes Life: The Hidden Wonders and World-Saving Powers of Photosynthesis (publisher link)

Resources mentioned in today's episode:

Connect with Raffael and the Brilliant Planet Team:

Connect with Marjorie Alexander:

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Marjorie Alexander hosts A Sustainable Mind, a weekly conversation with people who are actively reshaping our relationship with the planet. This isn't a series of abstract lectures; it's built on the real-world experiences of environmental changemakers, from scientists and grassroots organizers to entrepreneurs and artists who put their values into practice. The discussions naturally weave through topics of science, culture, and society, reflecting the interconnected nature of sustainability itself. You’ll hear stories about the challenges and triumphs of creating change, whether that's launching an ethical business, advocating for policy, or rethinking daily consumption. The aim is to move beyond inspiration alone and into practical understanding, offering listeners a genuine sense of how action unfolds in different forms. Tuning into this podcast feels like joining a thoughtful, committed community where ideas are translated into tangible steps, all through the voices of those doing the work. It’s for anyone who has ever felt that curiosity about how to live and act more thoughtfully on the Earth and is looking for a grounded, human-centered place to start.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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