Internship Description
Nicolas Herrera Isaza ’25CLA served as fellows with the Climate Knowledge Initiative (CKI) at Columbia Business School’s Tamer Institute for Social Enterprise and Climate Change. CKI applies quantitative research tools and comparative policy analysis to evaluate interventions and translate technical findings into clear, actionable materials for future business leaders and diverse audiences with the practical, sector-specific knowledge needed to chart credible decarbonization pathways. Nicolas focused on the aviation and cement industries by analyzing U.S. decarbonization policy incentives, researching emissions profiles, growth trends, and technological feasibility, and producing analytical, data-driven outputs integrating technical, economic, and policy considerations.
At the Climate Knowledge Initiative (CKI) I worked on decarbonisation projects for the aviation and cement industries and analysed policy incentives in the United States. CKI aims to provide reliable, data‑driven information on the present and future of low‑carbon technologies, and my research fit this purpose. For aviation and cement, I conducted in‑depth studies of emissions profiles, growth trends, and decarbonisation pathways. I evaluated the feasibility and readiness of technologies, supply‑chain constraints, economic profiles, and policy support, producing analytical frameworks that clarify the best options for reducing emissions. I also examined U.S. policy incentives to understand how government support can accelerate industrial decarbonisation.
My M.S. in Sustainability Management and consulting experience provided the tools to integrate climate science, sustainability practices, and finance. I used these skills to balance environmental impact with economic and business feasibility and to highlight the critical role of policy and infrastructure. Understanding that even optimal technologies will fail without supportive policies and infrastructure was crucial to the analyses.
The biggest challenge was ramping up on new sectors quickly. Aviation in particular has its own technical language, lengthy reports, and industry jargon. Navigating the literature and bridging the knowledge gap required rigorous research and consultation with experts. My consulting background helped me synthesise complex information and articulate it clearly.
This fellowship broadened my understanding of decarbonisation. I recognised that while the challenge is similar across sectors, each industry has unique nuances and solutions. I gained insight into policy implications across time horizons and strengthened my conviction to build the business case for industrial decarbonisation. Going forward, I plan to continue working in this field, applying a smart, systemic approach to drive change at scale.
