There are two key points to take away from this summary: 1. Climate technology is harder to develop as an industry but absolutely worth the extra effort due to the jobs, manufacturing growth, regional development and economic benefit. 2. The Startup Muster report needs to be funded.

A comprehensive snapshot yet of Australia’s rapidly accelerating climate tech ecosystem. Featuring insights from 80 companies and 37 sustainability leaders, this year’s report paints a picture of an industry that has not just grown, but is gearing up for its next major leap forward.

Mick Liubinskas speaks with Tom from Bearhug, a climate-tech startup tackling the hidden environmental cost of plastic pallet wrap

Welcome to the second May edition of the Climate Salad newsletter 🌱 In addition to the round-up of climate tech news and events, we have a webinar on the 10th of June with Cheryl Mack from Aussie Angels (for members only). Plus, we’ve started a new series profiling Climate Salad founders.

In this edition, Mick emphasises the importance of realism and grace in climate action, arguing that imperfect efforts still count in a fuelled world. Reflecting on personal choices and public figures like Mike Cannon-Brookes, he contends that "climate hypocrisy" is unavoidable but shouldn't stall progress. The newsletter also features community insights, highlights from climate tech—including Nourish Ingredients’ precision fermentation breakthrough—and a roundup of events, funding, and jobs. It concludes with a spotlight on how AI is transforming battery technology for the clean energy future.

Are the companies you’re pitching climate solutions to rejecting them by claiming 💰 profit comes first?

On May 5-7, I was invited to Adelaide for SouthStart—my fourth year in a row—and once again, it proved why it's such a special event. Great events blend art and science, and SouthStart nails it.

Australia is producing some incredible climate solutions and we have a world of opportunity to grow them to their full-impact potential. Which markets to target first is not an easy decision.