Send me a messageIn today's episode of the Climate Confident podcast we dive deep into the intricacies of carbon markets with none other than Mike Azlen, the founder and CEO of Carbon Cap Management. Ever wondered how carbon trading actually works? Or whether it's effective in reducing emissions? Buckle up, because this episode has got you covered🌱 The "Fit for 55" Initiative 🌱Mike and I tackle the European Union's ambitious "Fit for 55" initiative, which aims to reduce emissions by 55% compared to the 1990 baseline. What are the chances of meeting this goal? Mike has got some insights that may surprise you!📈 Cap-and-Trade Explained 📈If you've been scratching your head over what a cap-and-trade system is, listen up! We dig into how these markets set a limit on emissions and create a financial incentive for companies to be more eco-friendly. The best part? It's a self-adjusting mechanism!📉 Carbon Prices and Economic Cycles 📉What happens to carbon prices during recessions? Well, they tend to fall! This episode sheds light on why this isn't necessarily a bad thing and how it can even help struggling companies.🚨 Facing the Climate Crisis 🚨Now, let's get real for a minute. Even though it may seem like we're making strides in combating climate change, the numbers tell a different story. We discuss the role of carbon removal and why it's crucial for us to get to grips with it, especially in the face of potential tipping points and runaway climate change.📚 Bonus Resources 📚If you're a data geek like me, you'll love the research Mike is offering on Carbon Cap Management's website, filled with educational videos, webinars, and papers.So, don't wait! Hit that play button and get ready to become a carbon market expert, or watch the video version on YouTube! 🎧Until next time, stay climate confident, and let's make our planet a better place! 🌏P.S. Got questions for Mike? I'll be linking his LinkedIn profile in the show notes. Feel free to reach out! 👋Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper