The Sustainability Journey

Join Samuele tini as he walks listeners into the heart of the Silicon Savannah, tracing a personal journey from London to Nairobi with Ben Hyman, CEO of Talent Safari. Through candid storytelling, Ben reveals the messy, human side of hiring in fast-moving startups — the missed connections, the rare self-starters, and the small bets that turn interns into founders. Along the way, they untangle practical strategies for founders hunting their first hires, hard-won advice for young talent breaking in, and a clear-eyed look at how AI will reshape recruitment without replacing the human spark. This episode is a roadmap for anyone eager to build or join the teams shaping Africa's tech future.

Special Episode 3 — Recorded live at the Oppenheimer Research Conference 2025. South Africa needs more clean energy and raptors need safe skies. Raptor biologist Merlyn Nomusa Nkomo lays out practical ways to make wind farms wildlife‑smart without stalling the transition. We cover how risk mapping keeps turbines out of migration corridors, why blade painting and shutdown‑on‑demand (triggered by radar or trained observers) can cut collisions, and how developers, scientists, and regulators share data to avoid hotspots. It's a fast, pragmatic conversation about building the grid while protecting endangered species. 

Special Episode 2 — Recorded live at the Oppenheimer Research Conference 2025. In Kenya's Amboseli ecosystem, people and wildlife have shared space for millennia. Conservation leader Dr. David Western explains how that coexistence works today: mirrored migrations between herds and wildlife, community scouts complementing state rangers, and “parks beyond parks” where tourism outside gates pays landowners to keep habitat open. We dig into restoring mobility to heal degraded grasslands, using early‑warning systems so pastoralists can off‑load or move livestock ahead of drought, and building local institutions that align incentives. It's a clear blueprint for scaling coexistence across Africa's rangelands, practical, proven, and community‑led.

Special Episode 1  — Recorded live at the Oppenheimer Research Conference 2025. A scabies outbreak among mountain gorillas sparked a new way of working.  Dr. Gladys Kalema‑Zikusoka tells the origin of Conservation Through Public Health and how a One Health approach links gorilla protection, community healthcare, and livelihoods. We discussed  Village Health & Conservation Teams, why tourist masking remains standard to protect great apes, and Gorilla Conservation Coffee, which pays farmers a premium and funds local programs.  And her story as a leading conservationist in Uganda and worldwide. 

Electric buses are not a pilot anymore. As Dorcus Wanjiru Kamotho explains, BasiGo already has ~100 e‑buses on the road across Kenya and Rwanda, with hundreds more reserved. The unlock: a Pay‑As‑You‑Drive model—lower deposit plus per‑km fee that covers charging and service—paired with night‑time charging on Kenya's largely renewable grid. We dive into local assembly with KVM (Thika), the new King Long platform to scale production, and how service capability (incl. CATL battery partnership) improves uptime. We also cover policy, open charging, and why passengers in Nairobi literally wait for the e‑bus even when a diesel bus arrives first. A practical blueprint for taking EV transit from proof to scale.  

Dr Anyse Pereira grew up in Cabo Verde, trained as a scientist in Europe, built programmes with the UN and Mercy Corps, and the corporate world—bringing a data‑driven, project‑management lens to sustainability. In this candid conversation, she explains the compliance–value–values triad, how to speak numbers to numbers people, and why purpose can beat budget (including the €5 “Science Parliament” that moved a nation). We dive into community‑led climate insight (what fishmongers' “less colour” tells us), the pitfalls of alarmism and virtue signalling, and the career truth that “your biggest brand is you. Disclaimer - Since recording Anyse has left her corporate position at Toyota. 

What does it take to comply with the EU's deforestation rule and create value for farmers and brands? Alessandro Chelli from Trusty explains how his team built a mobile‑first, offline data stack that gets plot‑level evidence from smallholders, validates claims with certifiers , and writes the results to an audited blockchain—so it is proof, not promises. We cover the EUDR baseline (plot mapping + due diligence), the shared‑cost model that makes tools free for co‑ops when buyers adopt, and why garbage‑in/garbage‑out is solved with third‑party checks before timestamping. We also look ahead: using the same field data for biodiversity/carbon credits, parametric insurance, and even value‑sharing via smart contracts. A practical roadmap from compliance to competitiveness

How far can a story travel — and how much can it change? In this episode, Bridget Deacon, Managing Director of Shujaaz,  Emmy Winner and leading B Corp, explains how youth‑first storytelling moves beyond entertainment to shape behaviour, unlock livelihoods, and shift social norms across Kenya. From radio, print and TV to social media and an AI‑enabled chatbot, Shujaaz meets young people where they are, surfaces their lived realities without judgement, and turns authentic voices into collective action. We discuss: designing with youth rather than for them; what it takes to build trust in an age of misinformation; why tackling livelihoods, reproductive health, gender norms and climate action requires sustained, multi‑platform narratives; and how a B Corp model helps a mission stay accountable and scalable. Bridget also shares practical lessons on devolving creation and research to local youth leaders, and how small, relatable stories can trigger system‑level change. A candid, hopeful conversation about narrative power, measurable impact, and a generation writing its own rule book.

Too often we hear Africa described as “emerging.” But as my guest Tom Fels, CEO of Animarem, explains — Africa is already shaping the future of global business. In this new episode of The Samuele Tini Show, Tom shares: ✅ Why African enterprises are future markets, not just emerging ones ✅ How B Corp certification is helping businesses prove purpose + profit ✅ The real opportunities (and hurdles) in accessing capital in growth markets ✅ Practical lessons from working with purpose-driven entrepreneurs If you believe in Africa's role in shaping tomorrow's economy, this conversation will inspire you.  Do you agree that Africa isn't just emerging but leading?   

Africa is driving an EV revolution—and Roam is leading the charge. ⚡ This week, Hans van Toor Strategy & Innovation Lead at Roam,  explains how locally manufactured electric vehicles can transform communities, economies, and the environment. ✅ Roam's vision for green mobility in Africa ✅ Tackling range anxiety and infrastructure hurdles ✅ Economic benefits of home-grown electric transport Learn how Africa can power the global future of electric mobility.

Can businesses genuinely help save wildlife and biodiversity? Join us this weekend with former Ferrari and Omega executive Michele Sofisti, now CEO of Nzatu, who believes they can. ✅ From luxury brands to conservation-focused business ✅ How regenerative agriculture helps wildlife and communities ✅ The potential of ethical commodities to transform Africa Discover how business can be a powerful force for conservation and community empowerment.

Traditional aid isn't delivering. So, what's next? In this week's podcast, Todd Kirkbride, an expert in private-sector partnerships with extensive experience at USAID and TechnoServe, reveals why public-private partnerships hold the key to lasting impact in emerging markets. ✅ Why traditional aid models are struggling ✅ How partnerships can drive climate resilience and food security ✅ Essential lessons on building trust and aligning incentives Discover how cross-sector collaboration can lead to transformational change.

In this fascinating episode of The Samuele Tini Show, meet Tommie Hooft, CEO and co-founder of Proteen, an innovative startup transforming waste management and agriculture in East Africa using Black Soldier Flies (BSF). Key Points: Discover how tiny insects can revolutionize waste management by turning organic waste into high-quality fertilizer. How Proteen's unique approach using BSF tackles both environmental issues and economic challenges. Practical insights on regenerative agriculture and circular economy solutions. Why turning waste into wealth is not just good for the environment—but also good business. Join us to understand how innovative startups like Proteen are reshaping sustainability in Africa, turning small insects into big impact.

Is Africa's investment model broken? On this thought-provoking episode of The Samuele Tini Show, we meet Nick Mwai, Founder and CEO of Pumapa Capital, who is challenging traditional investment models in Africa's startup ecosystem. Nick shares his inspiring journey from corporate finance to pioneering a more inclusive and impactful approach to private equity. Key Points: Why billions earmarked for African startups rarely reach them, and how to fix it. How democratizing private equity can unlock growth for emerging African businesses. Practical advice for founders navigating Africa's unique investment landscape. Real examples of how patient, purposeful capital creates true transformation and profitability. Nick reveals how a fresh approach to investment—driven by transparency, local knowledge, and long-term thinking—can genuinely empower entrepreneurs, transform communities, and reshape Africa's future. Tune in to discover the untold story of investing in African startups.

Zero Is the New Hero: Inside the Global Network for Zero Can businesses truly achieve net zero emissions by 2030—or even sooner? On this episode of The Samuele Tini Show, host Samuele Tini welcomes sustainability powerhouse Mahesh Ramanujam, former president and CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and founder of the Global Network for Zero. From his early life in India, where sustainability meant survival, Mahesh has led a global transformation in green building practices through the renowned LEED certification. Now, he's going further, leading an ambitious global movement aiming for total decarbonisation. In this insightful episode, you'll discover: Why Net Zero is no longer just an ambition, but a necessity for businesses everywhere. How certification can create transparency, build consumer trust, and spur competitors into action. The critical role of technology, particularly AI, in rapidly scaling sustainable solutions. Powerful examples of businesses already achieving remarkable progress toward zero emissions. Mahesh delivers an optimistic yet pragmatic vision: sustainability isn't just about protecting our planet—it's about driving innovation, growth, and lasting value for all.

Building Better Businesses: Lucy Muigai on Africa's B Corp Movement" Join host Samuele Tini in an inspiring conversation with Lucy Muigai, CEO of B Lab Africa, as they delve into why Africa is uniquely positioned to lead a global movement of sustainable, purpose-driven business. Lucy shares her journey from finance to leading the African B Corp movement, highlighting how businesses across the continent are combining profit with purpose. We discuss the groundbreaking changes to the global B Corp standards and what these mean specifically for African enterprises aiming for sustainable impact. You'll gain powerful insights into: Why African businesses should adopt the B Corp model now more than ever. Practical examples of successful African B Corps driving environmental and social change. How local sourcing, stakeholder governance, and robust sustainability metrics can transform your business for the better. If you're passionate about the role of businesses in building a resilient, equitable, and prosperous Africa, don't miss this transformative episode!

On the latest episode of The Samuele Tini Show, I'm joined by powerful DEI advocate Ebony Adams, leader at Pariveda and author of History vs Women. We explore tough, uncomfortable questions about inclusion that most organisations avoid:

In our latest episode, we welcome Isabelle Toledano-Koutsouris , Managing Partner at Ithaca Capital Partners and former CFO of the innovative startup Ÿnsect. Isabelle shares powerful insights on how strategic investments can accelerate groundbreaking innovations—like transforming waste into valuable insect protein through companies such as Better Origin and Ÿnsect. Isabelle reveals the challenges of scaling sustainable startups, the critical role of resilience, and why sustainable finance is shifting from niche to mainstream. Join us to explore how bold entrepreneurs and visionary investors are reshaping food systems, driving sustainability, and creating opportunities for a better world.

Can we learn sustainability by running through the Arctic? Pavel Cenkl says yes. In our latest episode, we talk with Pavel Cenkl, Dean at Prescott College, endurance athlete, and founder of the Regenerative Learning Network. Pavel passionately shares how experiential and regenerative education is reshaping our approach to the climate crisis. From transformative learning models at Prescott College to his personal "Climate Run" expeditions across the Arctic, Pavel explores how vulnerability, embodied practice, and direct engagement with nature can foster meaningful change in education—and society.

The Hidden Danger in Your Laundry: How Your Clothes Pollute Oceans" Did you know your washing machine might be a major contributor to ocean pollution? Each wash releases millions of microplastic fibres, invisible to the naked eye but devastating to marine ecosystems and human health. Join us as we welcome Rachael Miller, founder of the Rosalia Project and inventor of the innovative Cora Ball, designed to catch harmful microfibres before they reach our waters. Rachael shares alarming insights, practical solutions, and groundbreaking ideas from her years of frontline ocean research. Find out how small daily habits can become powerful tools to protect our planet and safeguard our future. Listen now to discover the hidden impacts of your laundry—and how you can help save our oceans!

Can Faith Truly Drive Global Sustainability?  Ten years ago, Pope Francis issued a revolutionary encyclical, Laudato Si, urging humanity to care deeply for our common home. But has it truly made a difference? Today on The Sustainability Journey Podcast, I had the profound honour of speaking with Dr. Lorna Gold, Executive Director of the Laudato Si Movement. Lorna shared how Laudato Si is more than a Catholic teaching—it's become a universal call to action, uniting people across faiths, inspiring thousands of grassroots leaders, and challenging institutions to become sustainability champions.

Is Hydrogen the Future of Sustainable Data Centers? The rise of AI has dramatically increased the energy demand on our ageing power grids. But what if data centers could be fully sustainable, operating entirely off-grid with zero emissions? In my latest podcast episode, I had an insightful conversation with Yuval Bachar, CEO and Founder of ECL, who is making this vision a reality. Yuval's innovative hydrogen-powered data centers represent a paradigm shift: they're not just carbon-neutral—they're carbon-free, emitting only water and even potentially giving it back to local communities.  Key Highlights: How ECL is delivering a gigawatt-scale hydrogen-powered data center in Texas. Why modular, off-grid data centers are faster, cheaper, and cleaner. The potential of hydrogen power to completely redefine data infrastructure and support AI sustainably. Listen to the episode to understand how Yuval and his team are redefining the data center landscape, making high-performance AI computing accessible and sustainable for everyone.

Feeling overwhelmed by climate change? What if your anxiety could spark revolutionary solutions—and a thriving business? In this eye-opening episode, sustainability entrepreneur Josh Dorfman, known famously as "The Lazy Environmentalist," shares his extraordinary journey from anxious activist to transformative innovator. From scaling groundbreaking startups Plantd- lwhich builds homes with rapidly renewable materials—to his latest venture Super Cool, Josh demonstrates why sustainability and profitability aren't mutually exclusive—they're a perfect match. Discover: How turning fear into action is fueling billion-dollar climate businesses. Practical, no-nonsense insights into creating scalable and sustainable innovations. Unexpected ways AI, smart materials, and clever business models are shaping our low-carbon future. If you've ever wondered how you can genuinely make a difference—or turn your climate concern into real-world impact and success—this episode is your roadmap. Don't just worry about the future—create it. Listen now and start turning anxiety into action!

In this episode, we speak with Gunter Pauli, the visionary behind the Blue Economy, who challenges conventional sustainability wisdom. Pauli argues passionately against the negative narratives dominating the climate discourse and showcases how innovative thinking and actionable, scalable solutions can radically transform our world. From coffee waste turned into mushrooms, to mangrove restoration creating new economic pathways, Pauli proves that sustainability can be profitable, equitable, and immediate. Join us as we dive into bold ideas, practical innovations, and inspiring stories that demonstrate the limitless potential of the Blue Economy to regenerate nature, eradicate poverty, and create wealth. 

In this insightful episode, Rob Karpati, sustainability and mining expert at Blended Capital Group, delves deep into the world of artisanal mining, revealing its critical role in global sustainability and local economic empowerment. Rob discusses the fundamental challenges artisanal miners face, such as predatory finance and informal structures, and highlights innovative solutions like digital marketplaces, blended finance, and blockchain technology that ensure transparency, productivity, and dignity. Discover how formalising artisanal mining can transform lives, protect environments, and create profitable, sustainable outcomes for investors and communities alike.

In this compelling episode of The Samuele Tini Show, we welcome Bukonla Adebakin, a renowned expert dedicated to advancing the non-profit sector in Sub-Saharan Africa. Join us as we dive deep into Bukonla's journey, from leading impactful projects to authoring "The Profit of Purpose," a groundbreaking book designed to empower social entrepreneurs and non-profit leaders with essential financial management skills. Learn how mastering financial accounting, reporting, and fundraising can unlock sustainable growth, ensure transparency, and amplify impact. Practical, insightful, and inspiring—this episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to making a meaningful difference through empowered financial literacy and strategic resource management.

Join host Samuele Tini in this fascinating conversation with Todd Bracher, renowned designer and innovator, exploring how design is not just about beauty but about solving real-world problems sustainably. From creating the world's most sustainable office chair to pioneering health innovations like UVC hand sanitizers and myopia-fighting glasses, Todd reveals how integrating design early into business processes can drastically transform sustainability. Discover why scale is crucial and how Todd's Better Lab is bridging the gap between science and practical design to revolutionize everyday life.

New Season! After 4 years it is time for a new season and for the first episode we travel to South Africa!  I engaged in a profound conversation with Duncan MacFadyen, Head of Research and Conservation at Oppenheimer Generations. Duncan shares his inspiring journey from growing up in South Africa's conservation areas to leading transformative sustainability initiatives across Africa. Discover groundbreaking projects like Malawi's innovative approach to sustainable fishing, the empowerment of young African scientists through the Jennifer Ward Oppenheimer Research Grant, and pioneering conservation approaches blending wildlife management with community benefit. This episode explores the intersection of science, community engagement, and sustainable economic opportunities, shedding light on how conservation in Africa can coexist harmoniously with development.

Join the host Samuele Tini as we delve deep into China's sustainability story with Lorne Michaels, Program Director for China at The Conference Board and founder of the groundbreaking Sustainability Directory. From his life-changing meeting with sustainability legend Ray Anderson to witnessing firsthand China's paradoxical journey toward sustainability leadership, Lorne reveals insights from behind the scenes of one of the world's most complex and powerful economies. Discover how grassroots innovation, massive renewable projects, and intricate policy shifts are shaping the sustainability landscape. Plus, learn about his exciting venture, the Sustainability Directory, designed to revolutionise sustainability learning and implementation. Whether you're an entrepreneur, sustainability professional, or simply curious, this episode will transform how you view China's role in our global sustainability journey.  

Is climate finance scaling fast enough to solve the crisis? With $2.1 TRILLION invested in green tech last year, we're seeing momentum—but is it enough? In this episode, Peter Fusaro, founder of the Wall Street Green Summit, breaks down the latest in sustainable finance, from AI-driven decarbonization to the startup funding gap. Key topics we explore: The real cost of AI and why data centers could cripple sustainability efforts Why carbon markets, methane capture, and green hydrogen are the next big bets The investment gap—why billions aren't reaching the climate startups that need them How investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs can accelerate the transition

What if the future of design meant products that are functional, beautiful, and compostable? In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, we meet Lauryn Menard, founder of GOB, a design visionary using bio-materials like mycelium to tackle single-use plastics. Lauryn shares her entrepreneurial story, her passion for education, and her commitment to creating sustainable products that do not compromise on quality. With insights like "Begin with the end – start your designs with their afterlife in mind," this episode dives into the challenges and triumphs of scaling eco-friendly innovation.    

How do we shift from an obsession with economic growth to a focus on human and planetary wellbeing? On this episode of The Sustainability Journey, we speak with Lorenzo Fioramonti, former Italian Minister of Education and Academic Director at Nativa Campus. Lorenzo introduces the concept of a wellbeing economy, where development is measured by its impact on quality of life, not consumption. Drawing from examples like New Zealand's wellbeing budget, Lorenzo highlights the policies, education reforms, and business innovations needed to create a sustainable and just future. With thought-provoking insights such as "We need to build an economy that improves quality of life within planetary boundaries," this episode offers a roadmap for change.    

“Universities aren't just about research; they're about finding holistic solutions that include policy, science, and people" In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, host Samuele Tini welcomes Dr, Valerie Thomas, the Anderson-Interface Chair of Natural Systems and Professor in the H. Milton School of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Georgia Tech, to discuss transformative solutions for today's environmental challenges. Valerie shares her fascinating career journey—from nuclear arms control to spearheading innovations in sustainability. The conversation dives into: The slow but impactful energy transition in developed and emerging markets. The future of freight transportation, biofuels, and carbon capture technologies. Groundbreaking research on industrial efficiency in paper and semiconductor production. The crucial role of policies and scaling innovations for real-world impact. Practical advice for individuals to contribute to sustainability efforts. Valerie's expertise bridges academia and actionable solutions, providing valuable insights into balancing new technologies and systemic change. Join us for an engaging exploration of the science, policy, and practices driving a sustainable future.

Digital transformation is the key to building resilience against climate unpredictability. In this episode, we sit down with Peter Horsten, Chief Growth Officer at AgUnity, to discuss how digital technologies are revolutionising smallholder farming and tackling the challenges of climate change, market access, and compliance with EU deforestation regulations. Peter shares his inspiring sustainability journey and explains how AgUnity's solutions are enhancing transparency and resilience in agricultural value chains. From leveraging GPS for deforestation-free compliance to empowering cooperatives through data-driven decisions, Peter illustrates how innovation can create a fairer, more sustainable world.

“Amid challenges, it is our commonalities, not our conflicts, that define us.” A message of hope for this Christmas season! In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, we explore the profound connection between entrepreneurship and storytelling with Miles Spencer—author, mentor, and serial entrepreneur. Drawing from his experiences retracing the legendary path of Lawrence of Arabia, Miles shares a unique perspective on finding purpose in both business and storytelling. Through  tales from the Middle East, Miles reveals how shared cultural narratives can bridge divides and inspire new ways of thinking. “Storytelling is the currency of the future,” he explains, highlighting its crucial role in problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and making knowledge accessible in today's AI-driven world.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jacky Zhu, CEO of ORCAUBOAT, a trailblazer in autonomous technology. Jacky shares the incredible journey of developing cleaning robots that tackle both physical and chemical water pollution across lakes, rivers, and oceans. From being the first Chinese robotics company to join the UN Global Partnership on Marine Litter to inspiring the next generation of young innovators, Jacky's story showcases the power of technology in creating a sustainable future. Tune in to hear about: The innovative use of AI and robotics in water conservation ORCAUBOAT's global deployment and customer feedback The challenges and rewards of leading a sustainable tech company Advice for young entrepreneurs aiming to make an impact

In this enlightening episode of The Sustainability Journey, Elise Som, Co-Founder and Chief Sustainability Officer of Altos Planos, shares how she is revolutionising the spirits industry. From local production in Jalisco to supporting biodiversity and achieving B Corp certification, Elise explains how her team prioritises sustainability at every step of the process. Key Takeaways: Why biodiversity credits are the future of sustainability. The role of women and local communities in creating a sustainable value chain. How B Corp certification opens doors and drives accountability.

I sat down with Carlos Álvarez Pereira, Secretary General of the Club of Rome, to explore the roots and evolution of the global sustainability movement. From the groundbreaking Limits to Growth report to the latest insights on equity, well-being, and cultural transformation, Carlos shares a compelling narrative about humanity's challenges and opportunities in creating a sustainable future. Discover how systemic thinking, empowering people, and redefining business education can spark meaningful change. “Human well-being for all is possible within planetary boundaries. The cornerstone for that is equity." “It starts by connecting with others—by reconnecting with life, with humanity, and with nature. Change begins with mindset.”  

"We must upgrade democracy, create citizens' assemblies, and assert economic power to change the system" In this episode we sit down with Dr. Gail Bradbrook, co-founder of Extinction Rebellion, to discuss her path from a coal miner's daughter to a leading activist challenging systemic structures. Gail shares her belief that "the current economic system is inherently anti-life" and calls for a deeper transformation: "We must upgrade democracy, create citizens' assemblies, and assert economic power to change the system." Listen in as she describes her journey, the challenges of building alternative systems, and why civil disobedience is essential for climate action: "It is the duty of a thinking citizen to rebel against governments and corporations when life on Earth is at stake."  

In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, we explore Africa's energy future and the key role hydrogen can play in driving a low-carbon transition. Oghosa Erhahon, an energy and sustainability expert, shares her insights on how the continent can address energy access challenges while promoting sustainable industrialisation. From renewable energy to hydrogen economics, this conversation dives deep into the technologies and strategies that can unlock Africa's potential for a greener future. "The infrastructure we lay down today will be used for decades. Why not make it sustainable now?" — Oghosa Erhahon

In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, we explore the unique sustainability challenges and opportunities facing the Middle East with one of the region's leading voices, Hassaan Ghazali. From water scarcity to the transition from an oil-based economy, we dive into the pivotal role of public-private partnerships and SMEs in driving the green revolution. Ghazali, who has worked extensively on mega projects, green finance, and innovation hubs, shares his perspective on how the region can lead the Global South in sustainability efforts. "Without public-private partnerships, things are going nowhere." — Hassaan Ghazali

In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, we dive into the transformative potential of SMEs in driving climate action and fostering green value chains. Vanessa Enogbogbo, a key leader at the International Trade Centre (ITC), shares her insights on how small businesses in the Global South can navigate international trade, overcome barriers, and lead the sustainability revolution. "Small businesses can make a huge contribution to achieving climate goals if they are empowered to take action." — Vanessa Erogbogbo Join us as we explore the challenges, opportunities, and the pivotal role that women entrepreneurs and SMEs play in the green transition, turning global trade into a force for good.

In this episode of The Sustainability Journey, host Samuele Tini interviews Giulia Marzetti, a young and dynamic sustainability expert, Top LinkedIn voice,  who has collaborated with the European Commission, championed renewable energy, and decarbonised cities across the globe. Giulia's journey is one of passion and purpose, stemming from her deep connection to the environment. As she explains, “Caring for the environment is not just about nature; it's about humanity.” In this thought-provoking conversation, Giulia shares her insights on the most pressing sustainability issues, from energy transitions to sustainable consumption, and the vital role of regenerative systems. She also touches on the challenges women face in STEM fields, advocating for a more inclusive and equitable workforce. “We must create workplaces free of barriers, where women can rise and lead in science and engineering,” she says, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Whether you're an aspiring changemaker or a seasoned sustainability professional, Giulia's insights will leave you inspired and motivated to take action for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

“The gender gap in finance is still 300 years away from closing, but we can start by advocating for inclusive financial systems that leave no one behind" In this insightful episode of The Sustainability Journey, we sit down with Yasmina Vucina, a changemaker in finance, sustainability, and gender inclusion. Yasmina discusses how the financial sector can shift from traditional extractive models to regenerative systems that restore  both the economy and the environment. We explore key topics, including: UNA Initiative: Yasmina's groundbreaking project focused on closing the gender gap in finance by providing inclusive, innovative banking solutions for women facing barriers in traditional systems. Financial Inclusion: The role of digital banking and fintech in empowering underbanked communities and promoting financial access for all. Regenerative Finance: Why sustainability is no longer enough, and how finance must evolve to create systems that do no harm and instead actively contribute to societal and environmental regeneration. Strategic Partnerships: The power of collaboration across sectors—NGOs, academia, businesses, and governments—in driving systemic change in banking and beyond. Leadership Challenges: Yasmina's journey in overcoming resistance within traditional finance institutions and creating a culture of sustainability from within. Join us for an inspiring conversation about reimagining finance, building inclusive banking systems, and Yasmina's vision for a more equitable, regenerative financial future.

"If you bring the do good after the return, that's quite the differentiator." Pyrpose, a sustainability-focused startup, is tackling the challenge of energy transition in Switzerland by democratizing access to financing for green infrastructure projects. Leveraging a crowdfunding-like platform, Pyrpose empowers climate-conscious investors to directly support local building retrofits and renewable energy installations, while also earning a return on their investment. This innovative approach challenges the notion that "doing good" must come at the expense of financial returns. By addressing the capital constraints faced by building owners, Pyrpose is driving measurable impact in carbon emissions reduction and community engagement. The startup's resilience in navigating different business models and its focus on additive capital have positioned it as a trailblazer in the sustainable finance space. As Switzerland grapples with an aging building infrastructure and high energy prices, Pyrpose's model offers a scalable solution that can be replicated globally, bridging the gap between environmental and financial objectives.   learn more at https://pyrpose.io/

"The best way of fighting a system that you want to get rid of is not fighting it but coming up with a better solution" In this episode  the incredible career of Maurits Groen, a pioneering entrepreneur in sustainability. Maurits shares his lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, from his early days recycling paper to founding transformative ventures like WakaWaka, Kipster, and many more. Discover how his innovative solutions are tackling global issues such as energy access, food waste, and climate change. Learn about the challenges and successes of embedding sustainability in business operations and hear his insights on creating a circular economy. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and visionary thinking in driving sustainable change.

Please note that the interviewee was an employee of Agritask at the time of this interview. He has since left the company. The opinions expressed in this interview are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company or any other entity.   In this insightful episode of The Sustainability Journey, host Samuele Tini engages in a compelling conversation with David Taylor, former Head of Sales and Business Development for Agritask in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. Delve into the intricate world of sustainable agriculture, data-driven value chains, and innovative practices that aim to enhance both environmental and social impacts. Discover how Agritask is pioneering in the field by helping businesses gain better visibility into farm-level activities and improve their sustainability metrics. Key Highlights: The importance of data aggregation and remote sensing in modern agriculture. The role of technology in bridging the gap between enterprises and farmers. Success stories from Agritask's collaborations with major food and beverage companies. The critical challenges faced by the agri-food sector and how Agritask is addressing them. Join us for an engaging discussion that sheds light on the crucial role of sustainability data in transforming agricultural practices and ensuring a greener future.

80% of people displaced by climate change are women. We must bring the voices of women leaders in all their diversity for a just and urgent climate action. In this powerful episode of The Sustainability Journey, host Samuele Tini welcomes Mamta Borgoyary, Director of She Changes Climate, to discuss the intersection of gender justice and climate change. Mamta shares her extensive experience working at the grassroots level in India, advocating for women's rights and leading climate action movements. This episode highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and children and emphasizes the importance of incorporating women's voices in climate policies and actions. Key Highlights: The unique challenges faced by women and children in the face of climate change. The importance of intersectionality in climate action and gender justice. Initiatives by Sea Change Climate to empower women and advocate for inclusive policies. The critical need for women's leadership in global climate negotiations. Tune in to hear inspiring stories from the front lines of climate action and learn how gender justice is essential to achieving sustainable solutions for our planet.

Our mission is to create systemic change in the fashion industry by providing plant-based, zero-waste products In this episode of "The Sustainability Journey," we explore the dynamic intersection of fashion and sustainability with Eric Liedtke, CEO and co-founder of Unless Collective. Eric shares his inspiring journey from leading sustainability initiatives at Adidas to pioneering regenerative fashion. Discover how Unless Collective is disrupting the fashion industry by creating products from plant-based materials that decompose naturally, aiming for zero waste and environmental regeneration. Eric discusses the challenges and opportunities in sustainable fashion, the importance of storytelling, and his ambitious vision for the future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainable innovation and transformative change in the fashion industry.  

"The biggest problem we face is that the pollution and negative externalities of using fossil fuels are not internalized; they are socialized" Join us for an enlightening episode of "The Sustainability Journey" as we sit down with Alicia Eastman, co-founder and former president of Intercontinental Energy. Alicia, a global expert in renewable energy, takes us through her fascinating sustainability journey, starting from her early experiences with environmental awareness to her groundbreaking work in hydrogen and ammonia as clean energy solutions. Discover the innovative strategies and policies driving the energy transition, the role of private-public partnerships, and the future of sustainable industries like shipping and steel. This episode is packed with insights on the challenges and opportunities within the energy sector, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainability.  

Indoor pollution is a silent killer; millions of lives are lost every year, but with the right solutions, we can change that narrative. Meet Peter Scott, the visionary CEO and founder of Burn. In this episode, we explore the profound impact of Burn's work in transforming lives and saving forests across Africa through innovative clean cooking solutions. Peter shares his journey, starting from a bold declaration at 14 to save the world, leading to a life dedicated to combating deforestation and indoor pollution. His commitment has resulted in Burn becoming the largest modern cookstove company in the world, producing over 250,000 stoves monthly and employing thousands across the continent. Key points of discussion include: The Challenges and Innovations in Clean Cooking: Peter highlights the pressing challenges in the African energy sector and how Burn's range of wood, charcoal, LPG, and electric stoves are providing sustainable solutions. Impact and Business Model: Discover how Burn's unique business model, supported by carbon credits, makes their stoves affordable and accessible, even in remote areas. Carbon Credits and Sustainability: Peter addresses the debates around carbon credits and explains how they are vital for funding clean energy projects and reducing deforestation. Manufacturing and Job Creation: Learn about Burn's commitment to manufacturing in Africa, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth on the continent. Future Goals: Peter shares Burn's ambitious plans to ensure every household in Africa benefits from their products, aiming for a transformative impact on both people and the environment.