this episode, we're joined by Daniel Lee, an Associate Professor in Carbon Markets at the Nanyang Business School. Before transitioning to academia full-time, he spent close to 18 years in the industry, where he undertook a variety of roles across the Energy and Decarbonization value chains, including Commodity Trading, Acquisitions & Divestments, and Capital Project Delivery.

This episode's discussed topics:

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

Setting the stage for the conversation and the importance of carbon market education.

01:50 – Daniel’s Journey: From Trading Desks to Academia

A look at Daniel’s professional background, early involvement in carbon markets, and the winding path to teaching.

07:23 – Why Academia? Daniel’s Motivation to Teach

What inspired the transition from industry to education—and why giving back matters.

10:13 – Building the Carbon Market Academy at NTU

How NTU’s new initiative is shaping future talent for the carbon services and trading sector.

21:50 – Evolving Carbon Markets & The Need for Continuous Learning

Insights into the current state of carbon markets and the importance of staying sharp in a transforming space.

30:10 – Why Education is the Backbone of Climate Finance

Exploring the critical role of structured learning in empowering new and existing professionals in the space.

34:52 – What Motivates the Next Generation to Join Carbon Markets?

Understanding the perspectives, anxieties, and hopes of students and young professionals entering the field.

42:25 – Singapore’s Carbon Hub Vision

How Singapore is positioning itself as a global carbon market hub—and what’s driving its rapid ecosystem growth.

Why Education Could Be the Most Powerful Tool in Climate Finance - Daniel Lee

Carbon Exposure

Why Education Could Be the Most Powerful Tool in Climate Finance - Daniel Lee