Riddhima Yadav on Challenges in Clean Energy Financing

Riddhima Yadav, an experienced professional in climate finance, highlights the slow pace of funding the climate transition. Speaking at the TED Countdown Summit 2025, she emphasizes that the climate movement's pursuit of perfection over progress is stifling essential industries. Yadav suggests that instead of excluding heavy polluters, the climate movement should engage with them, particularly in emerging markets, to facilitate a faster transition towards clean energy. She argues that this approach, though uncomfortable, is necessary for meaningful advancements in energy transformation. Yadav points out the crucial need for collaboration with industries that heavily impact pollution levels. She believes that through strategic financing and support, these sectors can be guided towards cleaner practices without being marginalized. During her talk, Yadav also stressed the importance of a global effort that includes all stakeholders. By bringing polluting industries into the conversation, there is potential for significant and faster progress in achieving global climate goals.