The Future of Finance for Climate Change: Showcasing New Innovations by San Diego’s Leadership
In 2026, climate change has fallen very low on the priority list despite more frequent and damaging climate-related disasters. With a Super El Niño driving even greater global weather catastrophes this year, could this be the wake-up call that supercharges societal engagement to reverse climate change? The answer depends on whether we can create a paradigm shift in finance for nature and climate.
The biggest business on the planet should be the planet itself, upon which all life depends. Reversing climate change and restoring biodiversity should be a trillion-dollar endeavor. With climate tipping points looming, there’s little time left to create a radical transformation. And there are lots of opportunities to drive positive change at scale.
This event will showcase smart perspectives on science, conservation, and finance. It will also explore new innovative financial tools to exponentially increase finance for earth science and restoration of blue carbon ecosystems. Exciting new projects from Seatrees and the Keeling Curve Foundation will demonstrate an emerging paradigm for finance to restore the planet. Join us and visit the inspiring new Sea House and meet other leaders in philanthropy, finance, science, and conservation to learn, discuss, and create new opportunities to change our climate future.
Keynote: Dr. Ralph Keeling, The Keeling Curve and Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Other Speakers: Kevin Whilden, Co-Founder of Seatrees Johno Niles, Keeling Curve Foundation Executive Director, Ted Fogliani, Vice President, Business Development, Whittier Trust
Session 1, 3-4pm: The Past, Present, and Future of Climate Science
The state of climate is increasingly alarming. Changing this trajectory requires new ways in how earth science is conducted and valued. This session will tackle the issues head-on and describe new emerging solutions.
It all starts with Earth-observing systems, with Dr. Ralph Keeling
State of climate change and nature in 2026, with a focus on how healing nature is one of the best ways to avoid climate tipping points, with Johno Niles
Session 2, 4-5pm: The Future of Climate Finance and Philanthropy
In order to meet the moment discussed in Session 1, we need to challenge long-held assumptions. In this case, nothing is more fundamental than how modern financial systems place limited value on healthy nature and a stable climate. This session will survey current climate and conservation finance and propose new solutions that “put nature back on the balance sheet” in a scalable and effective manner. A workshop section will provide an opportunity for creative discussion and brainstorming.
A brief history of climate finance and paradigm shifts that can transform change, with Kevin Whilden
What works and what can be improved in terms of financing science and restoration, by Ted Folgiani
Seatrees and the Keeling Curve Foundation will present new financial systems to radically scale and improve transparency and investment potential for science and restoration
An “All-In” discussion on how to place financial value on healthy natural areas and a stable climate.
Intimate cocktail reception from 5:00-6:00pm.
Seatrees - Seatrees is a nonprofit focused on transforming surf culture into a force for sustainability. Seatrees was born out of a deep commitment to protecting and restoring our ocean ecosystems because of their immense potential to fight climate change, foster biodiversity, and support coastal communities.
The Sea House is a quick 15-minute walk from the Encinitas Coaster station. Street parking available; carpooling encouraged. Please let us know if you need ADA accommodations and we can provide more details.
By registering for this event, you agree to share your registration information with the organizers of San Diego Climate Week and our event platform partner, Climatebase. Your information will not be shared with third parties.