Bill Gates, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist, has expressed concerns that political resistance in developed countries may impede progress in tackling climate change. Speaking at the Breakthrough Energy summit in London on June 27, 2024, Gates highlighted that wealthier nations need to lead in both lowering their own emissions and funding global green initiatives.

Gates, through his investment firm Breakthrough Energy, supports tech companies aiming to reduce greenhouse gases. At the summit, he emphasized the importance of addressing the “green premium,” the additional cost of adopting less polluting methods.

Political developments in the US, Europe, and the UK have raised worries about weakening climate commitments. Green parties in the EU recently lost seats, and the UK has scaled back on electric vehicle and home insulation targets. In the US, former President Donald Trump leads the polls for the upcoming election and has criticized climate policies.

Gates remains cautiously optimistic about global climate efforts but doubts achieving net zero emissions by 2050. He acknowledged it would require unprecedented success across all sectors globally.

On artificial intelligence (AI), Gates believes it will aid in the climate battle by enhancing technological and electrical grid efficiencies. He addressed concerns over AI’s increased data center energy needs, suggesting tech companies are committed to using green electricity, thus mitigating potential negative impacts.

Overall, Gates recognized the potential delays in transitioning to green energy, stressing the need for faster development to meet global climate targets.