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.
As the world accelerates efforts to combat climate change, hardware innovations are critical. From renewable energy storage to large scale carbon capture and use, we are going to need a million new hardware products.
Despite global challenges, climate tech continues to advance in 2025. Falling clean energy costs, strong government policies, corporate commitments, and resilient investment are driving progress. Innovations in hard-to-abate sectors, growing consumer demand, and expanding carbon markets further support optimism. Public activism and startup resilience ensure continued momentum towards a sustainable future.
Mick is a climate tech advisor, investor and industry leader. He has been founder of startups, incubators and accelerators with Pollenizer, Startmate and muru-D. He's a big believer that Australia will play a huge role in building climate solutions. He's also been a strong advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion. He's written two books and is completing a Masters of Sustainable Development and spent 3 years living in San Francisco. Mick is a happily married dad of 3 kids, who loves cooking, surfing and football.