Transforming Waste Into Climate Assets and Solutions

In this episode of Deanna’s Dialogues: Navigating Carbon Sustainability, Deanna Reitman welcomes Jason Dodier, co-founder of Grain Ecosystem, for a deep dive into how circular economy solutions are transforming waste into climate assets. Jason shares his path from energy infrastructure to climate innovation and explains how Grain’s AI-powered platform helps municipalities, companies and developers convert biomass and residues into biochar, renewable energy and verified carbon credits.

The conversation also explores the importance of rigorous data, transparency and standardized methodologies in scaling circular solutions — highlighting how regulation, compliance and innovation work together to unlock capital and deliver durable climate solutions.

Jason brings a global perspective, comparing how climate regulations differ across the EU, the U.S. and emerging markets, and highlighting why collaboration across regions is essential for building climate resilience. He breaks down the challenges of adopting new technologies and earning trust in carbon markets, explaining how strong digital and legal systems — like transparent registries and modern financial tools — can make climate solutions more credible and investable. The episode wraps with Jason’s call for flexible innovation, clearer rules, and a shared focus on creating real public benefit while building sustainable, profitable climate solutions.