This episode of “The Energy Forum” takes a deep dive into critical minerals and materials geoeconomics, a space where national security, industrial policy, and global competition intersect.

Featuring Michelle Michot Foss, Baker Institute fellow in energy, minerals, and materials; Gabriel Collins, the institute’s Baker Botts Fellow in Energy and Environmental Regulatory Affairs; and Vinod Veedu, assistant vice president of Rice University’s Office of Research, the conversation builds on a new Baker Institute report exploring how past wars and strategic competitions can inform today’s mineral supply chain challenges.

Read the report here: https://www.bakerinstitute.org/critical-minerals-materials-geoeconomics-2025-report

This episode was recorded on April 1, 2025.

Medical plastic waste is a growing environmental and public health concern, yet only a small percentage is recycled, with the majority ending up in landfills or incinerators.

In this episode of “The Energy Forum,” Rachel Meidl, Center for Energy Studies deputy director and fellow in energy and sustainability at the Baker Institute, sits down with Linette Leadon, director of environmental health and safety at MD Anderson, to explore the complexities of medical plastic waste management. They discuss regulatory challenges, innovative solutions, and the need for systemic change to create a more sustainable and resilient health care system. Tune in for a critical conversation on the intersection of health care, waste management, and sustainability.

Can ammonia be the next big fuel for transportation?

In this episode of “The Energy Forum,” Ed Emmett sits down with Joel Moser, chief executive officer of First Ammonia LLC, to explore the potential of ammonia as a scalable, low-carbon energy source. They discuss the technology behind ammonia fuel, its advantages over other alternatives, and the hurdles that must be overcome for widespread adoption.

With industries looking for cleaner fuel solutions, could ammonia be a key player in the future of shipping, heavy transport, and beyond? Tune in for an insightful conversation on the road ahead for ammonia in the energy transition.

This episode was recorded on Feb. 13, 2025.