Welcome to season 3 of AECOM’s Talking Infrastructure podcast. Talking Infrastructure delves into the industry’s hot topics, key projects, and the ground-breaking innovations that are helping to solve some of the world’s most complex infrastructure challenges.

We'll be discussing everything from driving cost and time efficiencies within the rail industry to the importance of collaboration in bringing hydrogen projects forward.

Episode 4: Closing the net zero divide: how do we ensure no community is left behind?

For this episode, our host James Banks is joined by Emma Fletcher, Low Carbon Homes Director at Octopus Energy and Helena Rivers, AECOM’s net zero lead for the built environment to discuss the challenges and opportunities in achieving net zero.

From the importance of retrofitting homes and buildings to enhance energy efficiency to the latest green technology improving heat networks, our speakers explore how we can reduce the carbon footprint of our built environment – and why a people-centric approach is key.

Central to the conversation is how we can meet our climate goals whilst addressing the disparities and inequalities between communities to ensure that no one is left behind.

As well as busting some common myths, our speakers tackle questions such as:

• What does 'net zero' really mean and why is it vital for our future?

• What role does technology play in making homes more energy-efficient and sustainable?

• How can we effectively engage the public and bridge the knowledge gap?

• How can global cooperation and policies accelerate the move towards net zero?

Plus, Emma shares the creative ways that Octopus is reshaping public perceptions towards green energy – including a touring wind turbine named Gusty Springfield.

Expert speakers:

• Emma Fletcher, Low Carbon Homes Director, Octopus Energy

• Helena Rivers, AECOM Net Zero lead for the built environment

About the host

James Banks, Director of Marketing and Communications. Been at AECOMnfor 6 years.

Hosting the Talking Infrastructure is a real highlight of my role at AECOM. Having launched the podcast back in 2019. I’ve seen it grow from something that was, to be honest, a bit of an experiment, to something that is now adding real value to our clients and the industry. With a growing and diverse audience, I’m always amazed when I receive emails and social comments from listeners all over the world. So, keep them coming!

Useful links:

• Podcast survey – take part in our podcast survey to help shape the future of the podcast. You could win your very own exclusive Talking Infrastructure podcast mug (T&Cs apply): https://forms.office.com/r/6DcYTjsgza

• Come and work for AECOM: discover the recruitment opportunities here: https://aecom.jobs

• Get a copy of our FOI report here: https://infrastructure.aecom.com/

S3E04: Closing the net zero divide: how do we ensure no community is left behind?