David Dao, ETH alumnus and GainForest scientist, shares his journey from climate activism to XPRIZE-winning AI innovations, supporting indigenous communities, and driving impactful solutions.

David Dao, ETH Zurich alumnus, co-founder and chief scientist of GainForest, talks about his journey from climate activism, his experiences at the COP climate conferences to winning the XPRIZE. From AI innovation, valuable support for indigenous communities to mapping Brazilian nut trees, Dao reflects on his personal story as the son of Vietnamese refugees and how it has influenced his pursuit of meaningful impact. From preserving cultural heritage with AI to redefining climate finance, Dao offers a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and community-led action.

This is his story.

books mentioned in this episode:

Matilda - Roald Dahl

Chapters:

(00:43) David Dao's Recent Experience at COP

(02:19) Climate Finance Negotiations

(03:53) Role of Youth Activists at COP

(04:36) GainForest and the XPRIZE Journey

(07:08) AI and Indigenous Communities

(18:39) David Dao's Personal Journey

(23:35) Final Thoughts and Reflections

(26:13) Closing Questions