Getting In the Loop: Circular Economy | Sustainability | Closing the Loop

Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including:The Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.  ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODEWelcome to the season finale of the Getting in the Loop Podcast! This season our theme has been ‘making circular business happen.' So far we've talked to companies and researchers working with circular business models specialized in repair and refurbishment. Now it's time to hear from another key player in the circular business ecosystem: that's right, we're talking about investing in circular businesses.Jamie Butterworth of Circularity Capital joins us for this season's final instalment. Circularity Capital is a specialist private equity firm founded to provide clients access to investment opportunities created by the circular economy. You might be familiar with Jamie Butterworth as he was the first CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, before going on to found Circularity Capital. In today's episode, you'll learn if investing in circular economy solutions is really that different from how we currently invest. You'll hear how Circularity Capital selects companies for its portfolio and the different investment challenges circular businesses face depending on their business model. Jamie also shares a bit about what it was like to be the first CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and what has surprised him the most about the growing interest in circular economy over the past 10 years.

Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including:The Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.  ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODEWe're joined by Jessika Luth Richter, a postdoctoral researcher at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics. In today's episode, we cover a lot of ground - we're talking all things electronics and policy. You'll hear about the idea of ‘Right to Repair' that is gaining traction in the US and EU, find out how policies like extended producer responsibility (EPR) relate to circular economy, and more!Related episodes:How Policy Can Help Create a More Circular Economy with Leonidas Milios ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTJessika researches policies and initiatives enabling a circular economy, including extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies, ecodesign policies, green procurement, circular business practices and circular city initiatives. She has experience with qualitative research methods, multi-criteria policy evaluation methods, and quantitative life cycle methods (I.e. LCA, LCC, MFA). She also has experience evaluating environmental economic instruments such as emission trading schemes and green stimulus packages. She is currently researching how different values can be retained in closing loops for electronics products through EPR policies and how policies can support upscaling repair of these products. Jessika is also involved in teaching, including designing and running massive open online courses.

Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including:The Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.  ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODEIn today's episode, we're talking all things about reuse of electronics. Sebastian Holmström explains how Inrego's electronics refurbishment business model works. We discuss the Swedish Government's Circular Economy Delegation where Sebastian is the chairman of an expert group on reuse and Sebastian shares several ‘pre-conditions' he believes necessary to encourage reuse at a large scale.  ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTSebastian Holmström is Circular Strategy Lead at Inrego. Before joining Inrego, Sebastian worked to reduce littering in Sweden at Keep Sweden Clean. Sebastian is also a board member of the Swedish circular economy platform Cradlenet.  

Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including:The Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.  ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODEParently aims to make parenting worry-free by offering subscription services for children's things including strollers, bikes, and cots. In this episode, you'll hear from CEO and Founder David Knutsson about the unique way Parently's business model works, the challenge they have faced, and why David refers to refurbishment as the ‘sewage system of the circular economy.' Hint: it's a backbone to making circular economy happen, but no one wants to talk about it or deal with it. ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTDavid Knutsson is CEO and Founder of Parently. The idea for Parently was born in 2019 while David was expecting his first child and discovered no other companies in Sweden offered high value children's products through subscription-based, circular business models. 

Kicking off the new Getting in the Loop podcast season is entrepreneur Tom Leenders of Gerrard Street. Gerrard Street is a modular, high-end headphone company proving how circular products can be brought to market.  In today's episode, you'll discover how Gerrard Street distributes their headphones, the new type of customer they've added since the COVID19 pandemic, and the biggest design challenge they've faced so far.ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTTom Leenders co-founded Gerrard Street after graduating with an MSc in Integrated Product Design from Delft University of Technology. Now over six years later, Tom joins us on the Getting in the Loop podcast to share what he's learned and how Gerrard Street has evolved. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including:The Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast

Hi Getting in the Loop listeners,We are starting a new GETTING IN THE LOOP season on Monday, January 17th.Today I'm announcing the line-up of awesome guests.Our guiding theme this season is circular business. We'll hear from entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers who are making circular economy happen through reuse, repair, refurbishment, and more.Check out the full line-up below to see who we will be joining us this season:Tom Leenders, Co-founder of modular headphone company Gerrard StreetDavid Knutsson, CEO and Founder of subscription service ParentlySebastian Holmström, Circular Strategy Lead at InregoJessika Luth Richter, Postdoctoral Researcher at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental EconomicsJamie Butterworth, Founding Partner of Circularity Capital and first CEO of the Ellen MacArthur FoundationThese are conversations about making circular economy happen in companies. I can't wait for the season to kick-off so I can finally be able to share them with you.Interviews will begin airing January 17, 2022, and run every other week until March. The season will be about 5 episodes in total: short and sweet, but jam-packed with practical insights! So, get ready to tune in and share these episodes with those you think will also find their contents insightful.Are you ready to get back to Getting in the Loop?See you on January 17th!Resources:Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast gettinginthelooppodcast.com. 

In today's episode, Alexandre Lemille introduces us to his idea of a 'Circular Humansphere,' which focuses on addressing human needs thanks to system circularity. Get ready to learn more about Alexandre's model that aims to build regenerative societies in full alignment with life systems. ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTAlexandre Lemille was recognized by the World Economic Forum as “Highly Commended” in the Circular Economy Leadership category (2016). He co-authored the 2020 academic Elsevier paper "Making Circular Economy Work for Human Development", and his Circular Humansphere concept was recently recognized by CRESTING Circular Research (2021).Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including:The Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastRead more about the Circular Humansphere here.

Katie here! The Getting in the Loop podcast is going on a summer break during July and August and will resume regular episodes in September.If you want to continue to learn about circular economy over the summer, we have a number of circular economy resources on our website. These include free downloads and new games to support you on your circular economy journey, especially if you want to share circular economy with others. Head to www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com and click ‘Resources'.That being said: While the podcast may be on summer break, the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast team will still be working behind the scenes, including planning and making new episodes for you! In fact, I asked members of our podcast Linkedin group what they wanted to hear about in upcoming episodes - so if you haven't responded to that post, be sure to do so! Become a member of the  Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast. It's a great way to get in touch with me and connect with other listeners!I hope you have a great July and August and will talk to you in September! 

Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Today I'm thrilled to introduce you to Jim Goddin. Jim is Head of Circular Economy at thinkstep-anz, a sustainability consultancy based in Australia and New Zealand. Jim was one of the first people I met when I started learning about the circular economy back in 2012. In this episode of the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast, Jim shares what he's learned having worked with circular economy issues over the past 10 years. Jim explains what most people get wrong about circular economy, the importance of measuring circularity, and what it was like to work with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on the development of their Material Circularity Indicator. We also discuss his expertise in critical raw materials and the one thing he thinks all companies should know - but likely don't! Will you know it? About Today's GuestJim Goddin is Head of Circular Economy at thinkstep-anz. He specialises in circular economy systems design and has worked alongside the Ellen MacArthur Foundation for much of the past decade leading and co-authoring the widely adopted Material Circularity Indicator methodology. He has worked extensively on the development of eco-design tools and the assessment of business risks resulting from critical materials and hazardous substances legislation.Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.

Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.What do sports and circular economy have in common? Well, today's  Getting in the Loop guest Brad Jeavons thinks approaches traditionally used by sports teams could help us create more sustainable and circular companies, especially when it comes to strategy and cultural deployment of circular economy concepts. Brad is an author, coach and presenter who focuses on helping organizations and their people reach their potential. In this episode, Brad shares what we can learn about transitioning to a circular economy from his experience helping large organizations shift culture. We also talk about why customer centric companies are more likely to have success with the circular economy and Brad shares his thoughts on the state of circular economy in Australia. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.

Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.In today’s episode: Ekaterina Chertkovskaya explains the concept of degrowth and shares examples of what this could mean in practice by presenting possible alternatives focused on openness and relocalization. She also explains why we should be wary of placing the blame on individuals and private citizens when it comes to sustainability - and what we can actually do to address this issue. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.

You might think the circular economy movement is only growing in Europe - but today’s podcast guest proves other parts of the globe are also interested in the circular economy! In this week’s episode of the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast, I speak with Humberto Olivo from #CircularNext North America, a series of monthly events organized throughout 2021 with the aim to explore circular economy best practices in North America. In this episode, Humberto shares why he was motivated to start #CircularNext North America and how you can get involved. You’ll hear about topics previously covered in the series - including digitalization and circular economy in regions - and learn about upcoming topics including tourism, finance, and more. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode.

Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode.About Today’s GuestVojtěch Vosecky is an Associate of Circle Economy, Co-founder of circular consultancy INCIEN, chair of the CE steering group @ city of Prague. He has worked on circular economy related issues in the European Parliament and currently works as Circle Economy's Associate focused on Nordics and the CEE. Vojtěch leads an expert team on circular economy for the city of Prague and collaborates with numerous other organisations. He is a member of the international groups such as Circular Economy Club and the Visegrad for Sustainability.

 ResourcesCircular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode.About Today’s GuestAnnika Hedberg is Head of the Sustainable Prosperity for Europe Programme at the European Policy Centre (EPC), an independent think tank based in Brussels, Belgium. She joined the EPC in 2010 and over the years has worked on a wide range of policy areas, including climate, energy, environment, health, circular economy and industrial transformation. In her role as Head of Programme, she aims to promote discussion on the drivers and foundations for a more sustainable and competitive European economy.

 ResourcesCircular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastResources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode.Want to know what’s happening with the circular economy in North America and especially Canada? In this week’s episode of the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast I speak with Paul Shorthouse from the Circular Economy Leadership Coalition. Paul shares examples of circular economy in Canada, tells us why he believes North America is ready to adopt a circular economy, and explains the regional differences that could influence how circular economy concepts are adopted in North America. About Today’s GuestPaul Shorthouse is one of Canada’s leading experts in the emerging circular economy, providing solutions and engaging leaders who are working at the intersection of business innovation, public policy, economic development, and sustainability. In February 2021, Paul took on the role of Managing Director of the Circular Economy Leadership Coalition (CELC), and continues in his role with the GLOBE Series and The Delphi Group where he is a senior director and leads their Green and Circular Economy practice nation-wide.  

Get ready to learn all about how digitalization and technology can help enable a more circular economy by creating transparent supply chains. Mesbah Sabur joins us to share how his company Circularise is using blockchain to create an open-source platform for sharing data across supply chains. Circularise’s ambition is to improve transparency so that companies can move towards more circular production processes, starting with the plastics sector. In this episode, you’ll hear about Circularise and the common misunderstandings that people make about tech and circular economy. Mesbah sets the record straight and explains the 3 main types of approaches to supply chain transparency. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.About Today’s GuestMesbah Sabur learned the value of hard work as an Afghan refugee, whose family sought asylum in his adopted homeland of the Netherlands when he was just 7. He recalls the frequent advice offered by his father during the five years they lived in refugee camps before achieving resident status: "Remember that you need to earn everything you are doing." That can-do philosophy — and his belief that it’s tough to solve big problems from inside big companies — inspired the creation four years ago of Circularise. 

Today marks the 2nd anniversary of the Getting in the Loop podcast! To celebrate, I’m answering your most frequently asked questions: “How can I get started implementing a circular economy?” “What can I do?” In this episode, I share four steps to action-oriented circular economy. I’ve developed them based on what I’ve learned from our podcast guests and my own PhD research since launching the world’s first circular economy podcast two years ago. I’ve dubbed it ACT C(ircular) to help you remember:A: Acknowledge what you already know. What skills and expertise do you have? How could you draw on them?C: Commit to a small scope. Think small.T: Try out different CE strategies. Trial and error.C(ircular): Check the outcomes. What are the benefits? LINKSCircular Sectors Navigator E-BookLinkedin Group: Getting in the Loop PodcastLeave Katie a voice message here- and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. Episode on circular entrepreneurs ReSOLVE framework.

In this episode, Virginia Cinquemani shares the mistakes us circular economy professionals often make when we talk about circular economy. Are you making any of them? Get ready to find out! Through her company Green Gorilla, Virginia coaches sustainability professionals on how to make an impact and find the right way to communicate sustainability to their stakeholders. Virginia has a deep passion for sustainability and she is an advocate of bridging the soft skill gap in technical fields for effective and lasting change. She is also the author of SustainABLE: How to Find Success as a Sustainability Professional in a Rapidly Changing World. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.About Today’s GuestVirginia Cinquemani is the director and founder of Green Gorilla Consultants Ltd, a training and coaching company focused on empowering sustainability professionals to make an impact. She is the author of SustainABLE: How to Find Success as a Sustainability Professional in a Rapidly Changing World, and the Hub Lead for Women in Sustainability Hertfordshire. 

I’m thrilled to welcome Elin Bergman to the podcast. Elin has been called the “Circular economy queen of Sweden.’’ In this episode, you will hear how Elin stumbled upon the circular economy and how ever since she has been working to implement the transition to a more circular economy. You’ll find out about how Sweden is moving towards a circular economy and what Elin thinks needs to happen in order to make the transition. You’ll learn about Elin’s most recent initiative, a new international network called ‘The Baltic Stewardship Initiative’ which aims to enable recirculation of nutrients in the region from the agri-food sector.Elin works as the circular economy expert at WWF Sweden, is one of the initiators of the Nordic Circular Hotspot and is the Vice President and spokesperson of the Swedish circular economy network Cradlenet.  Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Katie’s note: Since this episode was recorded, I have left my role as a Managing Partner of the Nordic Circular Hotspot.About Today’s GuestElin Bergman has been called the “Circular economy queen of Sweden.’’ She works as the circular economy expert at WWF Sweden, is one of the initiators of the Nordic Circular Hotspot and is the Vice President and spokesperson of the Swedish circular economy network Cradlenet. Cradlenet is one of the oldest circular economy networks in the world, celebrating their 10-year anniversary in 2019 with working to accelerate the transition of circular economy in Sweden and the world. At WWF, Elin has developed a new international network, The Baltic Stewardship Initiative, to enable recirculation of nutrients in the region from the agri-food sector.

Jennifer von der Heydt of Loop-it joins me on the podcast today! Jennifer is CEO and Co-Founder of Loop-It, which is an easy, convenient and affordable reuse system for products. Their reusable coffee cups can already be found in cafes throughout Sweden.Jenn founded loop-it in 2019 after her Erasmus at Linköping University in Sweden where loop-it began as an idea at an innovation bootcamp. Jennifer and the other co-founders won second place and kept going with their idea. In September 2020, she moved to Stockholm to work on loop-it full time. Loop-it was most recently part of the +impact accelerator from Danske Bank, RISE, WeWork Labs and Ignite Sweden.In this episode, Jennifer tells us about Loop-it and shares her experience as a circular entrepreneur. You’ll hear about what she’s learned setting up loop-it and the one question she always gets asked -- and is ready to answer for the last time on the podcast! Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.About Today’s GuestJennifer von der Heydt has a background in Consumer Psychology and Circular Economy / Systems Design. She founded loop-it in 2019 after her Erasmus at Linköping University in Sweden where loop-it began as an idea at an innovation bootcamp. Jennifer and the other co-founders won second place and kept going with their idea. In September 2020, she moved to Stockholm to work on loop-it full time. Loop-it was most recently part of the +impact accelerator from Danske Bank, RISE, WeWork Labs and Ignite Sweden. 

Resources featured in this episode:* In the Loop Circular Business Deck* Circular Sectors Navigator E-BookLeave Katie a voice message - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. Leave your message: https://lnkd.in/dGWjxnqJoin the Getting in the Loop: LinkedIn PagePrevious episodes mentioned: #39 (circular design), #40, #41 (circular business models), #45, #49 (biomaterials), #47, #51 (plastics), #50 (circular experiment)Link to listener Sarah Thomas’ article: Read hereFeatured listener voicemail: Harivignesh Narayanasamy

It’s been a crazy year hasn’t it? I hope all of you have been well considering this year has looked quite different than usual. One upside to going digital is the plethora of virtual events about circular economy. In this episode, I’m sharing about three online circular economy events from this fall. There's still time to join the upcoming IS4CE seminar: Join me live on December 2, 2020 at 16:30 CET for the IS4CE Seminar and catch recordings for the other events if you missed them!Become a part of the Getting in the Loop Podcast Linkedin Group.Fall 2020 events discussed in this episode:October 2020 : Putting circularity metrics to work in business November 2020 : Nordic Circular SummitDecember 2020 : IS4CE Seminar on “Circular transitions: Will incumbent companies make it? Learn more and register for free See more events at the WCEF Online Side Event Page

Donald Eubank joins us on the podcast today! Based in Japan, Donald is co-author of the new book Leading Sustainably: The Path to Sustainable Business and How the SDGs Changed Everything. In this episode, Donald and I talk about the Sustainable Development Goals and how companies are using them to guide sustainable business practices. Developed by the United Nations, the Sustainable Development Goals are 17 goals often referred to as the ‘SDGs’ that provide a blueprint for us to achieve a better future for all. In today’s episode, I challenge Donald about their usefulness as guides for helping us achieve climate goals. Donald shares tangible examples from global companies that are using the SDGs as frameworks to implement sustainable business strategies in their organisations. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Join the Getting in the Loop Podcast Linkedin Group About Today’s GuestDonald Eubank is an experienced manager who has worked across the IT, finance, and media industries in Asia. As co-founder of Read the Air, he serves as a key advisor to businesses that are integrating sustainability into their core strategy, guiding their teams to lead sustainably and apply critical tools for managing impact. Donald is a former features editor and contributor at The Japan Times. A graduate of St. John's College, he applies critical thinking, philosophy and science to take deep dives on difficult new subjects and determine future directions for business strategy.

Mariksa Nell is a Climate Activist, Artist and host of the Mama Earth Talk podcast. Today she joins us on the Getting in the Loop podcast to talk about zero waste, sustainability, and of course - circular economy! Mariksa Nell started experimenting with trash️ in her artwork and the curiosity of the medium had her researching how waste affects the environment. Since then, she has worked with many organisations globally to drive environmental and sustainable change and inspires change through her artwork, podcasting, and public speaking. Her artwork can be found in the collections Trevor Noah, Adrian Grenier, Gary Vaynerchuck, Kris Fade, and Black Coffee Mason Plumlee.In this episode, Mariska tells us how she became interested in climate activism and the unique way she went about raising sustainability awareness in the UAE. You will also learn about her motivation to start the Mama Earth Talk podcast and what she has learned from talking with experts all over the world having produced the podcast for over two years. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.About Today’s GuestMariksa Nell started experimenting with trash️ in her artwork and the curiosity of the medium had her researching how waste affects the environment. She decided to take the trash to the streets of the UAE and wore all the trash she generated. 30 days and 65 kg of waste later she had the country buzzing with questions about waste and wanting to know how they can reduce it. This was the start of the podcast, Mama Earth Talk. She has worked with many organisations globally to drive environmental and sustainable change and inspires change through her artwork, podcasting, and public speaking. Her artwork can be found in the collections Trevor Noah, Adrian Grenier, Gary Vaynerchuck, Kris Fade, Black Coffee Mason Plumlee.

Frederik van Deurs joins us on the podcast today! Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Frederik is the CEO of the Green Innovation Group, which has worked with pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk in a circular innovation challenge. Today you will learn about this challenge and Frederik’s takeaways. Our conversation really got me thinking about circular economy in healthcare and how to address consumable products in a circular way, since Novo Nordisk produces +500 million insulin pens a year. Let’s dive into today’s podcast and learn what Frederik has to say about the process of working with Novo Nordisk to look into plastic alternatives, take back solutions, and the possibilities to use enzyme waste to produce new products. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com .About Today’s GuestFrederik is CEO of Green Innovation Group, which is a consulting firm that makes strategy and innovation for large clients. Frederik graduated from the University of Copenhagen with a specialty in anthropology and alternative societies. Last year, Frederik and the Green Innovation Group were a key part of the Novo Nordisk Innovation Challenge. Through the challenge Novo Nordisk and the Green Innovation Group looked at 350 circular economy companies before adopting five in an accelerator. Novo Nordisk is currently running pilot projects with several of the companies from the accelerator.

How can marketing be used to help create a more circular economy? Alena from Orange Bird is here to share with us the ins and outs of marketing and that it is not inherently about getting people to buy more. Tune in to hear why you might want to start collaborating with your marketing department when it comes to innovating new circular business models. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com .About Today’s GuestAlena Kuzniatsova is Founder and Chief Value Officer of Orange Bird. After working in different marketing functions for 15+ years, in 2017, Alena founded Orange Bird, an agile marketing agency, which focuses on and serves companies who use circular business models and help to reduce and eliminate greenhouse emissions.

Join the podcast Linkedin group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12471484/ The aim of the Linkedin group is to enable Getting in the Loop podcast listeners to connect and discuss the podcast and circular economy! I also plan to share information and events I think might be relevant for you and invite you to do the same.Don't forget this week's events:Virtual WCEFonlineCircular Hotspots of the World EventView the complete list of WCEF Side Events here. 

Today we’re talking about the future of flexible packaging with Graham Houlder, Managing Director of SLOOP Consulting and founder & project coordinator for CEFLEX. In today’s episode, Graham and I talk about CEFLEX (a Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging). CEFLEX is a collaborative initiative of over 150 companies and associations from across the flexible packaging value chain with the aim to make flexible packaging even more relevant in the circular economy. Graham is an expert in this field and, in this episode, he provides significant insight into the world of packaging. Graham shares about collection and take back, including EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility), limits to plastic recycling, and how to design for circular packaging. And even if packaging isn’t your area of interest, I think you will find this episode valuable. There is a lot to learn from CEFLEX in terms of how to organize circular economy projects and get all actors from one sector involved, whether its material producers, manufacturers, end consumers and waste collectors. Get ready to be inspired to start your own initiative! Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . About Today’s GuestGraham is the Managing Director of SLOOP Consulting B.V. which has been offering consulting services and tools in the field of packaging and sustainability since 2009. He is the founder & project co-ordinator for CEFLEX (a Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging), which is a collaborative initiative by over 150 companies and associations from across the flexible packaging value chain to make flexible packaging even more relevant in the circular economy. Prior to 2009, he worked for Unilever for 23 years with a wide range of responsibilities including: R&D, Packaging management and design, Supply chain restructuring, Sustainability and CSR.

Welcome back to the Getting in the Loop podcast. We’re kicking off our Fall 2020 season with a milestone. We’re celebrating 50 episodes of the Getting in the Loop podcast! Wow, I truly could not have done it without YOU, listener. Thank you for sharing your favorite episodes, leaving reviews, and posting on Linkedin. It has been fun getting to know many of you over the last 1.5 years.  About Today’s GuestAshleigh Morris is the CEO of Coreo, a company actioning circular economy in Australasia. Ashleigh is widely recognised as a circular economy visionary with the skills, experience and ability to not only inform future strategy but to also lead the action required to achieve impact. HighlightsToday’s episode is about DOING and for that reason I’m so happy that I can share it with you as our special 50th episode! Today’s theme revolves around asking: What would happen if you applied circular concepts to a local area or region? Ashleigh Morris of Coreo is here to dive into this question with us and share her experience! In this episode, Ashleigh tells us about the state of circular economy in Australia, and she shares her experiences practically implementing circular economy strategies.  Tune in to hear about Coreo’s first project aptly named the Circular Experiment, where applying circular concepts such as reverse logistics and asset sharing to a street in Queensland resulted in economic, environmental and social benefits! Ashleigh also shares key factors you should consider before embarking on your own circular experiment.  Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . 

Next week (Sept 7, 2020) the Getting in the Loop podcast is back to its regularly scheduled programming! Join host Katie Whalen as she kicks off the Fall 2020 season with an interview featuring Ashleigh Morris, CEO of Coreo. Find out more about the podcast and listen to previous episodes at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. UPCOMING EVENT ALERTInterested in learning more about circular economy in the Nordics? On Sept 8, 2020, the Nordic Circular Hotspot is hosting an online side event as part of the digital World Circular Economy Forum. The event will focus on what’s happening with circular economy in the Nordics and what’s to come with the Nordic Circular Hotspot. The Hotspot’s mission is to fast-forward the transition to a more inclusive, resource-efficient and regenerative economy in the Nordics and is a collaboration between partnering organisations from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, and The Netherlands. I am especially excited to share this event with you because I am part of the Nordic Circular Hotspot team through my work at RISE.So, if you are interested in learning about the state of circular economy in the Nordics, I invite you to join us on Sept 8. Find more information and register here. 

It’s the last episode in our series in partnership with the International Society for the Circular Economy, and I’m so excited to introduce Ehab Sayed who is today’s guest. This episode has it all: circular materials, circular design, and circular business models! You will learn about how Ehab’s company Biohm is using bio-based materials to create a company founded on circular economy principles. Discover how Biohm is revolutionizing the construction industry with mycelium (which comes from mushrooms!), other plant-based materials, and circular design strategies like modularity. Plus, find out more about Ehab’s upcoming keynote for the inaugural (digital) conference of the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) (July 6-7, 2020). Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Getting in the Loop + International Society for the Circular Economy Team Up!This month we’ve partnered with the International Society for the Circular Economy so you can meet some of the keynote speakers ahead of their inaugural conference. To learn more and register for the digital event, please visit https://www.is4ce.org/en/society-for-the-circular-economy . Mark your calendars for July 6-7, 2020! FYI: the Getting in the Loop podcast will take a break from our regularly scheduled programming for the summer and resume in September. Make sure you are subscribed to the podcast to get notified when we resume and if any bonus content airs!  ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTEhab Sayed, Founder and Director of Innovation at Biohm and PhD Researcher at Northumbria University, is a sustainable designer, engineer, circular economy strategist and built environment innovator with a passion for creating a biomimetic (nature-inspired) circular future that meets our environmental, economic and human needs. Through extensive research on the global construction industry, he founded Biohm to develop nature inspired construction systems and materials that champion a transformation towards the integration of biological processes in manufacturing. Leading a solid team of passionate and talented designers, engineers, architects, biologists and business innovators from around the globe he is working towards revolutionising the construction industry. Ehab is a Climate-Kic Certified Professional and with Biohm, has amassed a portfolio of awards and recognition from highly regarded international bodies. Member of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Circular Economy Club and UKGBC.

We are joined by Anders Wijkman, Honorary President of the Club of Rome and chairman of the Governing Board of Climate-KIC. In today’s episode, Anders reflects on our progress towards a circular economy and the role that cities play in the transition to a circular society. You will learn about Climate-KIC, hear about Anders’ experience with environmental policy in the European Parliament, and find out more about his upcoming keynote for the inaugura (digital) conference of the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) (July 6-7, 2020). Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Getting in the Loop + International Society for the Circular Economy Team Up!This month we’ve partnered with the International Society for the Circular Economy so you can meet some of the keynote speakers ahead of their inaugural conference. To learn more and register for the digital event, please visit https://www.is4ce.org/en/society-for-the-circular-economy . Mark your calendars for July 6-7, 2020!ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTAnders Wijkman is an opinion maker and author. He is Honorary President of the Club of Rome, senior advisor to The Stockholm Environment Institute and chairman of the Swedish Association of Recycling Industries. As of March 2017 Anders is chairman of the Governing Board of Climate-KIC – the largest public-private partnership on innovation for low-carbon solutions in the EU.Anders has served as a Member of the European Parliament, as Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Policy Director of UNDP, as Secretary General of the Swedish Red Cross, as Secretary General of the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation and as Director General of SAREC (the Swedish Agency for Research Cooperation with Developing Countries).

Today we’re thrilled to welcome Walter Stahel back to the podcast!  In this episode, you will learn about the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) and its inaugural conference, which will be held digitally on July 6 - 7, 2020. You will also hear Walter’s thoughts on a circular future post-COVID-19 and find out why circular economy and resilience go hand in hand.  Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Getting in the Loop + International Society for the Circular Economy Team Up!This month we’ve partnered with the International Society for the Circular Economy so you can meet some of the keynote speakers ahead of their inaugural conference. To learn more and register for the digital event, please visit https://www.is4ce.org/en/society-for-the-circular-economy . Mark your calendars for July 6-7, 2020! ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTDr. Walter R. Stahel is founder and director of the Product-Life Institute (Switzerland), the oldest established consultancy in Europe devoted to developing sustainable strategies and policies. He is honorary president of IS4CE, a visiting professor at the University of Surrey (UK), a full member of the Club of Rome, and author of numerous publications, including his recent book  The Circular Economy: A User’s Guide.

Today’s guest was inspired to find a solution to reuse food waste after visiting his uncle’s dairy farm. He is now the driving force behind Mi Terro, a new material technology company that turns food waste into fiber. Three-time entrepreneur and Mi Terro’s CEO and Founder Robert Luo joins us today to talk about creating the world's first apparel line made from milk waste, which has been sold to 40 countries worldwide. Mi Terro and Operation Food Search are partnering in the fight against hunger: Use the discount code "WEFEEDKIDS" for 25% off at www.miterro.com and 20 meals will be donated to a child in need every time the code is applied. About Today’s GuestRobert Luo is a three-time entrepreneur. He sold his first company for $300,000 while he studied at the University of Southern California. He is a Forbes Under 30 Scholar and Global Shaker's Sustainable Fashion Innovator 2019. He is also an Entrepreneur Hall of Fame at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business, recipient of "25 Under 25" by Social Entrepreneur Magazine, and recipient of the All America Chinese Youth Federation "Top 30 under 30".Show notes and links related to this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com.

Dive into the fascinating world of biomaterials and circular design with Dr. Michael Saltzberg. Michael is the Global Business Director for Biomaterials at DuPont. In today’s episode, you’ll hear how material suppliers like DuPont are contributing to a more circular economy by combining performance and environmentally-driven design. Michael explains key concepts related to biomaterials and the biocycle and shares examples of how biomaterials can be used in practice to extend product life cycles and help close material loops.  ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTMichael A. Saltzberg is the Global Business Director for Biomaterials at DuPont. There he leads a portfolio of commercial and emerging businesses which utilize renewable feedstocks, rather than petroleum or natural gas derivatives, to make industrially important chemicals and materials, including DuPont Sorona® polymer and Bio-PDO™ propanediol. Through the development of renewable biochemicals and biomaterials, Dr. Saltzberg and his team are solving critical issues for industries as varied as packaging, cosmetics, apparel and carpeting, all facing the challenges of offering high performance choices to their downstream customers while making their supply chains more sustainable. Show notes and links related to this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. 

This week marks the annual celebration of Earth Day and we are celebrating with Matt Hill, the CEO and Founder of One Tree  Planted. Matt’s team reached out to me earlier this month and I jumped at the opportunity to chat with him. One Tree Planted has had to reshift their Earth Day Celebration plans in light of recent events, and today you will hear how they have proceeded with a digital experience.  You’ll also learn about reforestation, how you can participate in Earth Day (even while social distancing!), and pivoting in times of uncertainty. Related resources and shownotes of past episodes available at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com

Today we’re celebrating the 1 year anniversary of the Getting in the Loop podcast! Let's look back at a year of circular economy learning. The episode features a clip from the very first Getting in the Loop podcast episode with Professor David Peck from TU Delft.Thank you to everyone who went on Linkedin and posted after our last episode. You can find the related article and join in on the conversation here: www.linkedin.com/pulse/three-positive-takeaways-circular-economy-from-current-whalen/ Will you join me with thanking our previous circular economy expert guests? Here's how: 1) Think about a past interview episode that you really enjoyed or learned a lot from.  2) Share a link to that episode on your favorite social media platform. Bonus: You can even write why you enjoyed the episode and tag the interviewee!Related resources and shownotes of past episodes available at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com

Today I am reflecting broadly on the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic could have on the circular economy movement. I’ve selected three positive effects I hope it will have including:Improving our ability for (virtual) collaborationIllustrating the possibility for strong leadership and quick actionSupporting distributed - rather than centralised - circularityWe also touch on the European Commission’s New Circular Economy Action Plan.I want to hear your thoughts and comments, so I’ve posted the transcript of this podcast on my LinkedIn as an article.  After you’re done listening, I invite you to join in on the conversation by posting a comment on the article. Resources and links mentioned in this episode can be found at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. 

Today we are talking with the Earthshine Group’s Founder and CEO Mike Townsend! Mike is passionate about sharing knowledge and skills in support of the transition towards a sustainable economy. In this episode, Mike talks about the business of change and how transforming business towards circular ways of working starts with capability development. You’ll also hear about some recent circular economy projects that Mike has been involved with, including a fascinating project with Norsk Ombruk, which remanufactures white goods such as washing machines. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com

It’s official! I’m now Dr. Whalen and today we’re celebrating on the podcast by mixing things up a bit from our normal interviews. Lately I’ve been receiving a lot of requests from people who are just getting into the circular economy and want to understand the basics. Recently I had the chance to incorporate storytelling techniques into my approach when I was invited to give a keynote speech at Lund University for an event called Trendspotting Circular Economy. I thought I’d share the talk with you and I hope it will inspire you in how you communicate circular economy. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com

You may have wondered what big companies are doing about the circular economy, so today Jeff Wooster joins us to talk about just that! Jeff Wooster is the Global Sustainability Director for Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics. Dow is one of the third largest chemical companies in the world and a member of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Circular Economy 100 (CE 100) Network. In this episode, you will learn about some of the initiatives DOW has been working on regarding circular economy. This includes a partnership with the company Fuenix Ecogy Group to use plastic waste in the production of new polymers, and Project Butterfly which is a social initiative that addresses poor waste management through education, clean-ups, and innovation. Tune in to find out what must be done to meet our future plastic demands. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.comABOUT TODAY'S GUESTJeff Wooster is the Global Sustainability Director for Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics. He is on the Board of Directors for GreenBlue and serves on the steering team for the Ocean Conservancy’s Trash Free Seas Alliance. Wooster has been recognized for his many efforts to advance sustainability practices including the American Chemistry Council  Responsible Care 2015 Employee of the Year  and an inaugural person of the year  Trashie Award  from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. He lives in Houston, Texas with his husband Randy and their dog Hercules.

Today we’re talking about design and innovation for a circular economy! I’m joined by Dr. Merryn Haines-Gadd from the University of Exeter’s Centre for Circular Economy. In this episode, you will learn about emotionally durable design and the nine product longevity strategies that are relevant for a circular economy. You will also hear about the fascinating new world of self-healing materials and the various applications where they are being applied to help extend product lifetimes. Resources and links in this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTDr. Merryn Haines-Gadd is a post-doc researcher at the University of Exeter within the Exeter Centre for Circular Economy (ECCE). She works in the EPSRC consortium ‘Manufacturing Immortality’, investigating the design opportunities and Circular Economy implications of implementing self-healing materials within product development.

Today we are getting in the loop with Emanuele Di Francesco, founder of the online platform Circular Conversations. In this episode, you will learn about Circular Conversations, a platform where Emanuele engages with leaders in thinking related to the circular economy. You will also hear about Emanuele's work setting up circular economy projects at the Unknown Group. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com ABOUT TODAY'S GUESTEmanuele Di Francesco is founder of the online platform Circular Conversations. He is a passionate researcher and entrepreneur in the space of the circular economy, with an interest in opening up societal dialogue and working on impactful initiatives. He is currently responsible for setting up collaborative initiatives between start-ups and corporates to accelerate the transition to the circular economy at the Unknown Group. 

It’s our last episode of 2019! Today I’m sharing an episode I recorded about circular business models with Steven Curtis and Sofie Sandin, two of my colleagues at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics (IIIEE) at Lund University. This episode originally appeared on the ‘Advancing Sustainable Solutions’ podcast that Sofie and Steven co-host at the IIIEE. I wanted to share it with you all because of the insight into circular business models! In the episode we address two main questions: What are circular business models?How can entrepreneurs contribute to the circular economy?As part of the latter question, I share a bit about what we’re learning in the C://BOOT program, where I helped mentor twenty-one budding circular economy entrepreneurs this past fall.This episode is actually the first of three episodes from ‘Advancing Sustainable Solutions’ on business in a circular economy. If you want to check out the second and third installments after listening to today’s episode, head over to www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com!FYI: the Getting in the Loop podcast will take a three-week break for the holidays and resume Jan 13, 2020 with Episode 38. Happy holidays and can’t wait to connect with you again in the New Year!

In today’s episode, you’ll hear about Ladeja’s work to create a Circular Economy Roadmap for Slovenia and how she is working with people all over the world to implement circular change. Ladeja and I reflect on the importance of considering culture when discussing circular economy, and Ladeja shares some examples from her work in Norway and the Americas. We also talk about leadership for a circular economy and what it means to be a circular economy leader. This is something I was eager to hear from Ladeja about since I find her to be an inspirational circular economy leader, and in the episode, Ladeja share her thoughts about the qualities and capabilities that she thinks are necessary for today’s CE leaders. Show notes and links related to this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com.ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTLadeja Godina Košir is Founder & Director of Circular Change, Chair of ECESP in Brussels, is an internationally renowned expert for the circular economy, speaker and co-creator of international CE events. Ladeja was the finalist of The Circular Leadership Award 2018 (Davos World Economic Forum), recognised as the regional "engine of circular economy transition". She is the co-author of the Roadmap towards the Circular Economy in Slovenia and creator and team leader of the annual international Circular Change Conference. Ladeja is visiting professor at the Doshisha University in Kyoto, and Co-leader of the Research Group Circular Economy Systems at the Bertalanffy Center for the Study of Systems Science (BCSSS) in Vienna.

It’s time for the second and final episode in our two-part series on the circular economy in India. Last week we were joined by a special guest host, Lucyl Staub to learn about the current state of India and the circular economy. This week, Lucyl returns to guide us through conversations with experts to discover more about the future of circular economy in India. As part of looking ahead, Lucyl also investigates the off-grid solar industry in India, looking at how to encourage the repair, reuse, and remanufacturing of off-grid solar panels.This two-part special makes a great follow up to Episode 005’ Why Asia is Key to the Future of Circular Economy with Adrienna Zsakay’. You can find Adrienna’s episode as well as links to other resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com.Learn more about CE business actions in the solar industry Transition to a CE in the off-grid solar industry : Lucyl’s thesis (not yet published)Greening the Solar PV value chain in India : Discover what is the Solar Waste Action Plan in India (SWAP): 

In this special two-part episode, we’re learning about the state of the Circular Economy in India! This episode is a never before on the Getting in the Loop podcast because we have a special guest host, Lucyl Staub. Lucyl and I worked in collaboration on this episode and she will take over for me in a lot of the episode, guiding us through interviews with experts to discover more about how India is moving towards a more circular economy.In this episode (Part One), we’ll discover the current state of circular economy in India. And, in Part Two, we will hear more about the future of circular economy in India as well as from Lucyl about the research that brought her to India in the first place!This episode is a great follow up to Episode 005 ‘Why Asia is Key to the Future of Circular Economy with Adrienna Zsakay’ - and we have to give a great thank you to Adrienna for putting us in contact with some of the interviewees in this episode! You can find Adrienna’s episode as well as links to other resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com.ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTLucyl Staub is a young waste management and circular economy professional. She recently graduated from her MSc in Environmental Management and Policy from the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics on top of her MSc in Business Administration from Grenoble Business School.

What does design have to do with a circular economy? Find out from Lars Zimmermann, a self-described Artist, Designer, and Activist. In this episode, you’ll learn about Open Source Circular Economy Days and the workshops Lars runs to engage people in circular economy concepts, including that of ‘pre-use,’ which you’ll hear him explain more in-depth. And last but not least, Lars also shares some exciting news about the work he is doing regarding circular economy education. ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTLars Zimmermann is a cofounder of Open Source Circular Economy Days, a global event that started in 2015 to promote open source as the key driver for a circular economy. Based out of Berlin, Germany, he is founder of Mifactori, a design and environmental activism studio. 

Today we’re getting in the loop with Jordan Nodarse, who is the founder of Boyish Jeans and a California native with a deep passion for sustainable practices in fashion. In this episode, Jordan and I dive into Boyish Jeans discussing their production practices and all things circular denim. Jordan takes me through how he initially found out about circular economy and how he now aims to set the standard for production practices with Boyish Jeans.This episode is a great follow-up to Getting in the Loop Episode 003 where Helene Smits and I explored the future of circular fashion. As you will hear, Boyish has adopted many of the practices discussed in that episode. You can find Episode 003 as well as well as the show notes to this episode on our website at gettinginthelooppodcast.comABOUT TODAY’S GUESTJordan Nodarse launched Boyish Jeans after more than a decade spent learning the ins and outs of the denim industry. Launching one and a half years ago, Boyish Jeans is a collection of sustainable women’s denim. Designed in Los Angeles, each collection is centered on vintage silhouettes with a modern update, all available at an attainable price point. Before starting Boyish, Jordan was the Director of Denim & Special Projects at Reformation.

It’s time to go back to some circular economy basics! In this episode, you'll hear how Rebecca Kimber and I explain circular economy, why we were drawn to circular economy in the first place, and what continues to get us excited about it. This episode is a little different from our normal Getting in the Loop episodes because we originally recorded it for Rebecca to use on her website and podcast, and I wanted to share it with you as well. This would be a good episode to share with your friends, family, or colleagues outside of the circular economy bubble as we try not to talk too technical!ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTRebecca Kimber writes about circular economy products, clean living and holistic health on EarthyB.com. She believes products should be better for us, the planet and the economy, and on her website, she shares her own journey of using simple swaps to reduce her eco-impact while also exploring systemic change. HIGHLIGHTSCircular economy basic principles and the two main concepts for circular business modelsHow to slow and close resource flows using cell phones as an exampleWhy individuals alone cannot be responsible for creating a circular economyThe importance of design and systems thinking in circular economyDifferences between circular economy, zero waste and sustainabilityWhy circular economy has gained significant popularity in Europe and how its viewed in the United States

Hi and welcome to Getting in the Loop. I’m Katie and today I’m talking with Rowan Drury of Sweden’s first plastic package-free shop, Gram.Rowan Drury founded Sweden’s first plastic package-free shop Gram in 2016 after searching for a more sustainable way to buy food. At GRAM Everything is sold loose and by weight. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers so that they do not have to throw away anything when they get home. When she’s not running the shop, Rowan can be found lecturing about zero-waste lifestyles, supporting others in their quest to start up zero-waste shops and initiatives and advise companies about how to reduce their waste and climate impact.In this episode, you will hear about why Rowan started Gram and we dive into the zero-waste lifestyle.ABOUT TODAY’S GUESTRowan Drury founded Sweden’s first plastic package-free shop Gram in 2016 after searching for a more sustainable way to buy food. At GRAM Everything is sold loose and by weight. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers so that they don't have to throw away anything when they get home. When she’s not running the shop, Rowan can be found lecturing about zero-waste lifestyles, supporting others in their quest to start up zero-waste shops and initiatives and advise companies about how to reduce their waste and climate impact.