Episode 22
21. The Venn Diagram of Climate and Biology is a Circle: Kristin Ellis of Lowercarbon Capital
Join Karl and Erum on the latest episode of Grow Everything as they explore the intersection of climate tech and biotech with Kristin Ellis of Lowercarbon Capital. From discussing the impact of biotech in the media to the future of climate tech and its impact on the job market, this episode covers…
Show notes
Join Karl and Erum on the latest episode of Grow Everything as they explore the intersection of climate tech and biotech with Kristin Ellis of Lowercarbon Capital. From discussing the impact of biotech in the media to the future of climate tech and its impact on the job market, this episode covers a wide range of exciting topics. Tune in to hear about the failures of overcomplicating blood-based diagnostics, the key factors in being a strong team, and what VCs look for when investing in companies. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative ride through the world of climate tech and biotech.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
- 00:00 - Climate and biology are inseparable
- 02:45 - Advocacy for carbon removal research funding by Carbon 180
- 07:03 - Importance and urgency of carbon removal
- 13:59 - Building recycling robots to tackle construction waste in Oakland
- 16:21 - Start small and learn for successful project building
- 20:02 - Ginkgo bioworks presenting portfolio at small meeting in Boston
- 24:09 - Inspiration from climate optimism and exciting low-carbon concrete industry company
- 27:18 - Biotech and climate tech: the same thing
- 31:06 - Balancing innovation and sustainability in biotech
- 34:49 - Criteria for early-stage investments
- 38:13 - Trons creates affordable liquid handling solution for biology labs
- 39:57 - Key traits for successful company founders
- 43:45 - Warm greetings and longstanding friendship
- 50:15 - Future of jobs: climate jobs and government support
Episode Links:
Kristin Ellis on LinkedIn
Companies mentioned:
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Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
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Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media
About Grow Everything
Grow Everything reveals the world of biology as technology. Hosts Erum Azeez Khan and Karl Schmieder talk with the founders, scientists, and executives biologizing entire industries — biomaterials from waste, precision fermentation, cultivated food — and unpack how the bioeconomy is solving health and climate challenges. Winner of SynBioBeta's 2026 Impact Award.