Bill Gates: ‘I’m fundamentally an optimist because I’ve seen what technology can do’

In an in-depth interview, the Mircosoft founder explains why he has thrown his money and time behind the campaign to avoid a climate catastrophe

Bill Gates: ‘I do think people in the rich world can and should cut back some on their emissions. I’m taking a number of steps to reduce and offset my own emissions.’ Picture: Getty

This month Bill Gates published his new book, How to Avoid a Climate Disaster: The Solutions We Have and the Breakthroughs We Need.

Connie Hedegaard: Let me start with a confession: For years, I thought you were not particularly interested in climate change. I vividly recall a closed session at Davos some years back. The discussion turned to climate, instead of other sustainability issues, and you left the room.

Now you powerfully and emphatically make ...