POPULARITY
Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!Our hosts are joined by Lucy Wishart, lecturer in Circular Economy and Sustainable Transformations at the University of Edinburgh. In this episode they explore how rental models fit into academic, practical, and social aspects of circularity.From the idea of “consumption work” (and how rental reduces it) to what makes circular systems messy by nature, this conversation is packed with insight.Lucy explains how rental plays a key role in circular economy frameworks like the Nine R's and Product-Service Systems, offering an alternative to ownership-based consumption.The discussion explores both the potential and pitfalls of rental - from shifting consumption habits to labor and logistical challenges. "There's a distinction between circularity and the circular economy. Circularity can be quite small scale and local… but the circular economy requires more than one product, more than one organisation — it's collective. It requires us to work together."This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!
Our pilgrim, Virgil, and Statius arrive on the otherwise empty sixth terrace of Mount Purgatory. Virgil seems more hesitant. And our pilgrim, Dante, more passive, as he listens to the two older, wiser poets discuss the craft of poetry.This passage represents the paradox of circularity and linearity, of stasis and advancement, that is the major structural (and thematic!) tension in COMEDY.Join me, Mark Scarbrough, as we work through a seemingy easy passage while the pilgrim learns the craft of poetry.Here are the segments for this episode of WALKING WITH DANTE:[02:01] My English translation of the passage: PURGATORIO, Canto XXII, lines 115 - 129. If you'd like to read along or continue the conversation with me, find this episode on my website and drop down the page to see the translation and a place to start a conversation with a comment: markscarbrough.com.[03:23] Circularity and linearity: the crux paradox of COMEDY.[08:37] Marking the temporal as a reality claim in COMEDY.[13:25] A possible change in Virgil's characterization.[16:25] Learning the craft of poetry (to engage the play of quotation and interpretation).[21:12] Rereading the passage: PURGATORIO, Canto XXII, lines 115 - 129.
Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!In this episode, our hosts Tandi Tuakli and Barry O'Kane had a fascinating conversation with Leah Pollen, a specialist in profitability and circular strategies within the used electronics market, particularly mobile devices. Leah shares deep insights into how the mobile phone industry's leasing and trade-in programs—especially driven by OEMs like Apple and Samsung—created what she calls “accidental circularity.” Leah also explains the business case for phone rental models, including calculations around device depreciation, residual value, repair logistics, and customer return behaviors.One of the biggest barriers Leah identifies is mindset. Many organisations are still entrenched in linear thinking—focusing on sales volume, product obsolescence, and short-term wins. She stresses the importance of redefining what product success looks like in a circular model.Our hosts and Leah draw parallels between mobile phones and other sectors like fashion, luxury goods, and homeware—discussing where circular lessons could be applied and where challenges persist due to differing value chains and consumer behaviors.This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!
In the latest episode of Climate Rising from Harvard Business School, Karen Pflug, Chief Sustainability Officer of Ingka Group (IKEA), shares how IKEA is embedding circularity throughout its business model. She discusses how IKEA is redesigning iconic products like the Billy bookcase to make them easier to disassemble and repair, how secondhand retail pilot programs at IKEA stores are reaching new customers, and how investments like RetourMatras are developing circular solutions for end-of-life mattresses. Karen also describes how policy, design, and customer nudges can accelerate circularity at global scale—and offers advice for those seeking careers in circular economy innovation.
Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!In this special episode our host Barry O'Kane is joined by Charlotte Morley, CEO of thelittleloop, and Ryan Atkins, CEO of Supercycle, to discuss the ripple effects of - ongoing and very fluid - changes to US tariffs and De Minimis import rules on the circular economy in the UK, EU, and US. The conversation, which originated from a passionate exchange on LinkedIn, explores both the opportunities and challenges these potential policy changes present for circularity-focused businesses. The discussion ranges widely from there, covering everything from policy to the importance of smaller, ethical brands to circularity.We discussed how reduced ease of importing low-cost new goods could boost demand for resale and second-hand markets, potentially benefiting the circular economy. While acknowledging the long-term benefits, our guests explained that many small ethical and sustainable brands are already overwhelmed by rising costs, market saturation from fast-fashion giants like Shein and Temu, and how, potentially, additional pressure from tariffs could undermine the "feedstock" of quality products essential for a thriving circular economy.Both guests stress the importance of empathy and support for brands navigating these tough times. They discuss how circularity enablers like their own companies must make circular business models (like takeback and resale programs) as frictionless and financially viable as possible. They also touch on the slow progress of legislation and the need for government mandates and funding to truly shift the industry toward reuse, not just recycling.The conversation concludes with a call to action for both policy involvement and practical support to ensure circularity is not just a long-term goal, but a near-term strategic advantage for businesses.Tune in to learn about how there is, despite current difficulties, a sense of cautious optimism: more brands are beginning to prioritise circularity, although slowly.This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!
What is the better place to launch a circular statup, the US or Europe? In this episode, Maya Hassa, Principal at Circular Innovation Fund, discusses regional differences in circular business models and stresses the possibilities a fund can offer startups when working with corporate limited partners. This episode is part of VC for Circularity - the Venture Capital Perspective on Circular Economy Startups.
BLUE CAST Ep 514 - Andrew OlahThis BLUE CAST Episode, Tuncay Kilickan talks with Andrew Olah.Andrew is the owner and CEO of Olah Inc. where he has worked since 1976 spending his early years involved in Denim Development and marketing . In 2004 he founded the Kingpins Show which is today the largest jean supply chain show in the world. Being a big believer in education Andrew spent 15 years helping FIT with their capstone jeans course. In 2015 he started Kingpins Transformers, an event meant to educate the denim industry and in 2019 Transformer's ED, a program to educate students about the jeans industry was launched. He also started Ethical Denim Council in 2022 fighting for contract sanctity.Tuncay Kilickan - Highly respected Industry figure, having cut his teeth at Turkish giant ISKO spanning 20 years. Most recently Tuncay was part of R&D team of ISKO. Tuncay has a number of patents under his name. No doubt most of us have worn fabrics developed by him and his team. Tuncay takes on the Head of Global Business Development - Denim at LENZING. @carvedinblue @tencel_usa #tenceldenim #tencel #Circularity #circulareconomy BLUE CAST by TENCEL™ / CARVED IN BLUE® A podcast series created Lenzing's TENCEL™ Denim team. Each month, they will host an in-depth talk with a special guest working in the industry or on the fringes of the denim community. Listen for discussions on sustainability, career trajectories, personal denim memories and more.Find us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @carvedinblue.And get in touch: denim@lenzing.com
From Utilities to Venture Capital: A Career at the Crossroads of InnovationMatt's career began in the energy sector during a pivotal time of deregulation in California. This early exposure to innovation within legacy industries laid the foundation for a lifelong pursuit: helping large corporations and startups work together to drive transformative change. After 15 years in VC, a stint as an entrepreneur, and a move into corporate venture capital, Matt now leads Syensqo Ventures, a fund backed by one of the world's largest materials science companies.What is Syensqo Ventures?Spun off from Solvay in 2024, Syensqo is a €7B global materials company focused on high-performance, sustainable solutions. Its venture arm—an €80M evergreen fund—invests globally in startups developing advanced materials, often at the intersection of mobility, circularity, bio-based products, and AI-powered materials discovery.Corporate VC with a Strategic EdgeUnlike traditional VCs, Syensqo Ventures looks for strategic alignment. Startups that can benefit from Syensqo's deep material science expertise, infrastructure, or supply chain are most likely to receive investment. “I want to know what Syensqo can do to help accelerate your business,” says Matt.When to Approach Syensqo VenturesThe team invests early—typically at seed or Series A stages—when startups are still figuring out product-market fit and need help with technical validation, de-risking, or market entry. With six team members across the US, Europe, and Asia, they invest globally and often co-invest with financial VCs. They can lead rounds if needed, with typical check sizes ranging from €250K to €3M, and reserves for follow-ons.Key Focus AreasBiomaterials: As demand grows for sustainable consumer products, bio-based inputs are becoming more relevant.Composites & Circular Design: Syensqo is prioritizing innovations that enable lightweight, recyclable, and high-performance materials for aviation, automotive, and consumer goods.AI & Materials Discovery: While AI is lowering the cost of discovery, commercialization still requires partnerships, manufacturing, and distribution—areas where corporates play a key role.Corporate Innovation Isn't a Solo GameMatt emphasizes that innovation doesn't belong solely to startups or corporates—it's a shared journey. Syensqo runs internal R&D, collaborates with universities, and co-develops products with startups. "There's no frontier—just partnerships that accelerate solutions."Circularity by Design: From Targets to ImplementationSyensqo publicly reports on circular sales, using a metric developed with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. This isn't just marketing—it's part of how the company defines and measures sustainability goals across its value chains. For startups, this signals a strong alignment in building products that are recyclable, bio-based, or reduce environmental impact.Regional Insights & Global AmbitionsWhile the team sees startups following similar patterns globally, they tailor their approach by region—with specific networks in Europe, North America, and Asia. They're active co-investors in funds like Sofinnova and IndieBio, particularly in the biotech and advanced materials space.Learn More about Syensqo VenturesWebsite: Syensqo VenturesLinkedIn: Matt Jones – SyensqoCompany LinkedIn: Syensqo Be sure to follow Sesamers on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for more cool stories from the people we catch during the best Tech events!
Join us today as we discuss the pressing issue of returns management within the realm of global supply chains, emphasizing the necessity for businesses to prioritize this area as we approach 2025. Welcome to The Buzz!This week, Scott Luton and special guest host Tony Sciarrotta, Executive Director of the Reverse Logistics Association (RLA) welcome Lars Dzedek, the Global Head of Returns & Circularity at DHL Supply Chain to the show, who shares insights on sustainable and circular logistics, including DHL's commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Listen in to learn more about:The staggering $890 billion in product returns in 2024The need for improved returns management to enhance customer loyalty and reduce costsInnovative strategies such as AI-powered return forecasting and shared infrastructure to optimize returns processing and protect product valueAnd more!Listen in and discover the critical role of leadership and education in advancing circularity and sustainability in global supply chains.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/4jqpYJn Why Reverse Logistics Needs to Be a Priority in 2025: https://bit.ly/436mRAAConnect with Lars on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsrdzedek/Learn more about DHL: www.dhl.comConnect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-sciarrotta-235570/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now's NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Plug the Leaks: Where You're Losing Money in Shipping (and How to Fix It): https://bit.ly/42iFW0ZWEBINAR- Altium 365: Integrated Supply Chain Management Across the Product: https://bit.ly/4bWSLmaWEBINAR- Cleared for Takeoff: Workforce Development in the Aviation Industry: https://bit.ly/42X4deyThis episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Tony Sciarrotta produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-circularity-returns-management-reverse-logistics-1424
In recent episodes of the All Things Sustainable podcast, we've heard how some of the biggest companies across sectors are navigating the changing sustainability landscape. In today's episode, we sit down with one of the world's largest chemical and plastic production companies, Dow. “Sustainability used to be something nice to have, but now it's a key part of the business strategy,” Han Zhang, Ph.D., Dow's Global Sustainability Director, Packaging and Specialty Plastics, tells us during S&P Global's CERAWeek energy conference in Houston. This is due to regulations, commitments from brand owners, and consumer demand, he says. “All of this creates a lot of opportunities to companies who can develop those sustainable solutions.” Dow has sustainability targets related to climate change, transforming waste, and advancing a circular economy where products are reused or recycled. Han says the company sees decarbonization and circularity as interconnected issues that can't be treated in silos. "We cannot decarbonize the society without circular plastic, and we cannot achieve a circular economy” with higher carbon emissions, Han says. “At Dow as a company, we're tackling both in the same lens and I highly encourage the industry to do the same.” Listen to our episode, What's at stake in UN plastic pollution treaty talks Listen to our episode, What companies are doing to address the plastic pollution problem Learn more about S&P Global's Energy Transition data This piece was published by S&P Global Sustainable1, a part of S&P Global. Copyright ©2025 by S&P Global DISCLAIMER By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that S&P GLOBAL makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this Podcast. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. Unless specifically stated otherwise, S&P GLOBAL does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organization presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. The third party materials or content of any third party site referenced in this Podcast do not necessarily reflect the opinions, standards or policies of S&P GLOBAL. S&P GLOBAL assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content contained in third party materials or on third party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced herein. Moreover, S&P GLOBAL makes no warranty that this Podcast, or the server that makes it available, is free of viruses, worms, or other elements or codes that manifest contaminating or destructive properties. S&P GLOBAL EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY INDIVIDUAL'S USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE INFORMATION PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.
Send us a textSummaryIn this conversation, Stephanie McLarty and Heidi Frasure discuss actionable circularity tips in celebration of Earth Week. They emphasize the importance of reframing messaging, redefining value in sustainability, and activating strategies to engage teams in sustainability efforts. The discussion highlights the need for integration of sustainability goals into corporate strategies and the importance of community impact. The conversation concludes with advice for sustainability professionals to take care of themselves amidst the challenges of the industry.TakeawaysReframe your messaging to be more inclusive and engaging.Focus on how your sustainability efforts make people feel.Redefine value by integrating financial and social wins.Engage your entire workforce in sustainability efforts.Integrate sustainability goals into corporate strategies.Use storytelling to communicate the impact of sustainability initiatives.Recognize the importance of community impact in sustainability efforts.Sustainability is a team sport; everyone has a role to play.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook
BLUE CAST Ep 513 - Diana Verde NietoThis BLUE CAST Episode, Tuncay Kilickan talks with Diana Verde Nieto.Diana Verde Nieto is a globally recognised business leader and sustainability expert with over two decades of experience in driving sustainable economic growth and fostering innovation. In 2002, she founded one of the world's first sustainability communication consultancies, which she successfully exited in 2010. In 2011 Diana co-founded Positive Luxury, leading the enterprise until 2022, and remains an active board member. Her latest venture, Edify Collective, is a cutting-edge micro-learning platform focused on sustainability and critical skills. Through Edify Collective, Diana aims to help embed sustainability into every job role across organisations, breaking down silos and enabling sustainability literacy.Diana serves as an advisor to several noteworthy organisations, including, The British Beauty Council, The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affair. Her education in Global Leadership & Public Policy was attained from the esteemed Harvard Kennedy School. She was trained by former US Vice President Al Gore at the Alliance of Climate Protection and received title of Young Global Leader from the World Economic Forum.Diana has recently released a book- Reimagining Luxury: How to Build a Sustainable Future for Your Brand in January 2024, which further solidifies her as a highly respected authority in the realm of sustainability and business.Tuncay Kilickan - Highly respected Industry figure, having cut his teeth at Turkish giant ISKO spanning 20 years. Most recently Tuncay was part of R&D team of ISKO. Tuncay has a number of patents under his name. No doubt most of us have worn fabrics developed by him and his team. Tuncay takes on the Head of Global Business Development - Denim at LENZING. @carvedinblue @tencel_usa #tenceldenim #tencel #Circularity #circulareconomy BLUE CAST by TENCEL™ / CARVED IN BLUE® A podcast series created Lenzing's TENCEL™ Denim team. Each month, they will host an in-depth talk with a special guest working in the industry or on the fringes of the denim community. Listen for discussions on sustainability, career trajectories, personal denim memories and more.Find us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @carvedinblue.And get in touch: denim@lenzing.com
Welcome back to Architecture 5 10 20! I'm your host, Guy Geier, Managing Partner of FXCollaborative Architects in New York. My guests for this podcast are pioneers and visionaries shaping the future of the built environment across various disciplines. Join me in exploring their remarkable journeys, discovering how they reach their current heights, and envisioning what lies ahead in the next 5, 10, and 20 years. Join me for this special episode as I have a great conversation with Avi Rajagopal, editor-in-chief of Metropolis magazine and host of the Deep Green podcast, to discuss connections between sustainability and design. Recorded at FX Collaborative's Brooklyn office during Green April, our conversation touches upon how sustainability has evolved in the built environment and how media plays an important part in pushing the conversation forward. Avi, whose career has been shaped by his commitment to sustainable design, shares his journey from product design to leading sustainability projects at Metropolis, and we talk about some of the challenges facing the architecture and design industries such as the carbon emissions tied to interior design and the importance of thinking about materials as long-term investments. Avi provides some insights into how we can shift our mindset to reduce waste and adopt a more circular approach to design. Avi also goes into how design practices differ across sectors, from corporate offices to healthcare facilities, and how we can rethink how buildings change over time. We discuss the role of reuse in sustainability and the shifts that we are going to need to actually elevate this practice. Focusing on practical and actionable steps, we consider how designers can model circularity, from reusing materials to rethinking aesthetic choices. Avi even answers a few questions from a few of my FXCollaborative colleagues here in the studio with me! This episode of the show is full of forward-thinking ideas on how we can design better, more sustainable spaces, so whether you are an architect, a designer, and/or a sustainability advocate, this conversation offers valuable insights from Avi that will surely challenge and inspire! Time stamps:[02:34] - Avi reflects on how his interest in sustainability developed over time, from design studies to Metropolis' focus on it. [05:59] - The media connects architecture to the public, advancing professional conversations around sustainability. [08:08] - Avi reveals that Metropolis has explored how interior design contributes to carbon emissions. [11:03] - Focusing on building life-cycle emissions led to creating the Climate Toolkit for Interior Design to reduce waste. [13:33] - Proposals for circularity in design have led to ideas for new professions and assessing the quality of reused materials. [15:03] - Avi argues that avoiding new materials is the best way to reduce rising carbon emissions. [17:54] - Aesthetics and sustainability are not inherently linked, and global practices embrace broader, more sustainable design values. [20:29] - Avi explains how different building types age uniquely, which requires customized strategies and approaches. [22:58] - As an optimist, Avi points out how retrofits, natural materials, and holistic thinking suggest a shift in sustainable practices. [25:04] - FXCollaborative's work highlights how urban design increasingly considers the impact on all life on Earth, not just humans. [27:21] - Adaptive reuse, Avi asserts, should prioritize flexibility and longevity, not just destroying and rebuilding existing structures. [30:51] - Can reuse alone satisfy future infrastructure and housing needs? [31:53] - It's important for new construction to be assessed for whether it serves the public good. [34:39] - Rethinking building use and shared responsibility is important for maximizing environmental and social value. [37:20] - FXCollaborative draws ongoing inspiration from Avi's vision for a circular, sustainable architectural future! Links / Resources: Guy Geier Instagram | Twitter Avinash Rajagopal on InstagramMetropolisClimate Toolkit for Interior DesignDeep Green Ezra Klein - Abundance
Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupIn this episode of the DTC Podcast, we sit down with Peter Pernot-Day, Global Head of Strategy and Corporate Affairs at Shein, to explore the innovative strategies propelling Shein's global dominance in the fast fashion industry.Key Discussion Points:AI-Driven Supply Chain: How Shein utilizes artificial intelligence to optimize inventory management and forecast fashion trends, ensuring rapid response to market demands. Micro-Influencer Collaborations: The role of micro-influencers in Shein's marketing strategy and how these partnerships enhance brand reach and consumer engagement. Sustainability Initiatives: An examination of Shein's efforts to address environmental concerns and implement fair labor practices within its expansive supply chain. On-Demand Manufacturing: Insights into Shein's production model that starts with limited quantities to test consumer interest before scaling up, reducing waste and aligning with current fashion trends. Navigating Global Challenges: Strategies Shein employs to adapt to international trade policies and maintain its competitive edge in diverse markets.Join us for an in-depth conversation that reveals the intersection of technology, marketing innovation, and sustainability in Shein's approach to revolutionizing the fast fashion landscape.Timestamps:00:00 - How Shein Gamifies the App Experience02:15 - Shein's Approach to AI in E-Commerce04:45 - How Shein Uses Photo Search and Personalization07:00 - Shein's Circularity and Sustainability Initiatives09:15 - How Shein Prepares for Global Economic Challenges11:40 - Leadership Lessons from Shein's Corporate Affairs Leader14:00 - How Shein Encourages Serendipity at ShopTalkHashtags:#Shein #Ecommerce #AIEcommerce #Sustainability #CircularFashion #ShopTalk2025 #CustomerExperience #FashionInnovation #Leadership #DTCpodcast Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video
What if the future of recycling isn't just about managing 'waste'—but unlocking its value? At Google's X, the Moonshot Factory, turning moonshots into reality means rethinking the impossible. And in this episode, you'll hear how that vision could help build a smarter, more circular world—one molecule, algorithm, and bold idea at a time. Recorded live at SXSW, this episode features Rey Banatao and Peter Chauvel - two of the brightest minds of Google's X, the Moonshot Factory. They're leading a bold effort to change how the world uses and reuses materials, starting with plastics. With help from AI, robotics, and new molecular data, their team is reimagining how recycling works and how we can build better systems to keep materials in use and out of the landfill.In this episode we dive into: How advanced recycling is opening the door to reuse materials once destined for the binWhy the moonshot factory believes plastics can be recycled and remanufactured—without extracting more petroleumThe role of AI, machine learning and better data are building smarter recycling infrastructureHow better data is transforming the economics of recyclingWhat it takes to try bold ideas from inside one of the world's most audacious incubatorsWhat happens when you treat waste as a resource
From Defense to Deep Tech: A Mission-Driven PivotSam's professional path began in defense and humanitarian operations, where she witnessed firsthand the enormous waste created by high-tech, mission-critical gear—aircraft components, body armor, and more. Frustrated by the environmental impact and economic loss of disposal, she teamed up with Jamie Meighan, a former RAF officer, to co-found Uplift360: a company that chemically recycles advanced materials like Kevlar and carbon fiber composites, turning waste into high-value resources.Building Uplift360: Science First, Then Everything ElseFounded in 2021 in the UK and now headquartered in Luxembourg, Uplift360 has grown to 16 team members—mostly scientists focused on R&D in materials, chemistry, and engineering. Their Series A launch was announced live on stage at JEC. Until recently, the company operated with no dedicated marketing team, a common thread in the composites industry. That changed with the arrival of an intern named Trisha, who helped reshape their brand presence, website, and press strategy—proving marketing matters, even in deep tech.Dissolving the Indestructible: Breakthrough with KevlarAt JEC, Sam unveiled a major milestone: Uplift360 successfully dissolved and respun para-aramid fibers (known commercially as Kevlar and Twaron) using a proprietary chemical process. These materials, once considered unrecyclable, can now be transformed into new high-performance fibers. With a price tag of nearly €100/kg, this isn't just a sustainability win—it's an economic one.“Kevlar is 80 times more expensive than steel—and we're turning it from a waste burden into a circular asset.”Scaling Impact Across IndustriesWhile Uplift360's first use case is defense, the applications are expanding into aerospace, mass transit, and even outdoor gear—industries previously wary of para-aramid's carbon footprint. Uplift's regenerated fibers offer up to 75% less CO₂ impact compared to virgin materials, making circularity a business case, not just a moral one.The Power of Circular EconomicsSam emphasizes that sustainability alone isn't enough to drive industrial change. What works is circular innovation that aligns with business incentives. Uplift360's pitch: transform waste into supply chain independence and margin growth. In a world increasingly focused on strategic autonomy, especially in Europe, that message is resonating—especially with defense and aerospace leaders.Regulation, Resilience, and European AdvantageUplift360's growth is partly enabled by Europe's progressive stance on waste regulation, green R&D funding, and climate goals. Being based in Luxembourg gives them access to EU-level policy and markets, and Sam sees the region as both a testing ground and a launchpad for global expansion.“Europe may not be sitting on mountains of fossil fuels—but we're sitting on mountains of waste. That's our strategic resource.”Learn MoreUplift360 – Pioneering material regenerationJEC World – The leading international composites show Be sure to follow Sesamers on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for more cool stories from the people we catch during the best Tech events!
Business unplugged - Menschen, Unternehmen und Aspekte der Digitalisierung
Thu, 17 Apr 2025 22:00:00 +0000 https://businessunplugged.podigee.io/95-katharinakreutzer-muvn c68dc909ca21335d6fa0b68ab114ff5d Hallo und willkommen! Heute habe ich die Seriengründerin Katharina Kreutzer bei mir zu Gast im Podcast. Ich habe Katharina 2022 kennengelernt, kurz nachdem sie ihr erstes Startup Boomerang gegründet hatte. Seit 2024 ist sie mit einem neuen Unternehmen am Start: Muvn – eine Art Mitfahrzentrale für Gegenstände. Was ich besonders beeindruckend finde: Gemeinsam mit ihrem Gründerteam hat sie innerhalb von nur neun Monaten die Plattform aufgebaut – und ist damit Mitte März live gegangen. Im Gespräch verrät mir Katharina nicht nur, was Muvn heute schon alles kann und was noch in der Pipeline steckt, sondern auch, wie sie es geschafft haben, das Unternehmen in so kurzer Zeit aus der Taufe zu heben – inklusive Investoren, bevor sie überhaupt ein Bankkonto hatten. Und natürlich sprechen wir auch darüber, welchen Beitrag Muvn zur Mobilitätswende leisten möchte. Ein faszinierendes Gespräch – ich wünsche euch viel Spaß beim Zuhören! Mein Gast: Katharina Kreutzer (LinkedIn) MUVN Feedback & Wunschgäste: podcast@peopex.de Über mich: LinkedIn XING Instagram PEOPEX GmbH 95 full no Mobilitätswende,Nachhaltigkeit,Digitalisierung,Circularity,Sharing Economy,Verkehrswende,KEP,Sperrgut,Start-up,Mobility Prof. Dr. Johannes Pohl, Katharina Kreutzer 2794 95
Dr Matthias Irger is an experienced architect, urban designer and academic specialising in regenerative design, holistic city planning and climate adaptation, who champions an evidence-based, collaborative, and interdisciplinary approach. As the National Head of Sustainability at COX Architecture, Matthias creates national strategies, objectives, actions, and tools that reduce and mitigate the embodied and operational carbon emissions across all services.He was also a moderator at the 2024 Sustainability Summit.In this interview, he talks about a range of issues that are becoming front of mind in the built environment including circularity, climate change resilience, regenerative design, and carbon reduction as well.
In this episode, host Anita Kelava, Head of Marketing and Co-founder at Voiz Academy, explores the fascinating journey of Lou Tamaehu-Plovier, co-founder of Circular Talent.Lou's path begins in Tahiti and weaves through textile production and consulting before culminating in a pivotal realization that sparked his mission: helping professionals transition into circular economy roles.The conversation delves into what circularity truly means in professional contexts, essential skills that companies are actively seeking, and why making an impact doesn't require waiting for the perfect "green job."Ready to accelerate your own climate career journey? Visit voiz.academy today to access expert-led certifications, hands-on simulations, and personalized career coaching designed to help you make your climate impact.
The secondhand clothing market isn't equipped for textile recycling. So when your donated clothes don't sell, where do they end up?With the rise of overconsumption and fast fashion, clothes have piled up in thrift stores, landfills, and incinerators around the world. Countries like Ghana and Chile are dealing with fashion waste from countries like the U.S., UK, and China, and the impacts are vast. Mountains of clothes lead to fires, polluted waterways, dying ocean life, and lost livelihoods. So how do we stop the cycle? How can we donate with purpose and dignity, and get fashion brands to actually take accountability for the full lifecycle of their clothes?Listen to hear what our community does with their used clothes, how a new law could force companies to clean up their act, and how Los Angeles's Suay Sew Shop is dealing with the untenable amount of clothing donations from wildfire relief. ➡️ If you want to support Suay Sew Shop, you can browse their site here and contribute to their Textiles Aren't Trash fire relief campaign. By the way, you can earn rewards for Suay purchases and donations in the Commons app!
Live from SXSW in Austin, Mia sits down with Rich James of Dow and Gina Oliver of the American Chemistry Council to talk all things automotive recycling. They break down how new plastics are making vehicles safer, lighter, and more efficient—and discuss breakthroughs that are keeping valuable materials out of landfills. This episode explores the path to sustainable automotives and why America has a real opportunity to lead the way.
We hear insights from Anette Timmer of DESSO by Tarkett, a leading carpet brand that was an early adopter of circular economy principles. Anette Timmer began her journey with DESSO almost 18 years ago, and has played a central role in the business' transition to a circular economy model. Anette helps to bridge the gap between the vision and execution of circular transformation, using marketing and communications to educate audiences about circularity; develop stakeholder trust and transparency; inspire behaviour change among customers; and build advocacy and momentum across the wider industry. Anette is a strong advocate for cross-industry collaboration, where businesses share experiences, and work together to create systems to circulate products and materials. DESSO is now part of Tarkett, and has a long-held belief in designing with people and planet in mind, and over a decade ago, it made a bold commitment to place circularity at the core of its ambitions. Moving towards a closed-loop system has involved a total change of mindset within the business. DESSO calls its commitment the Beauty of Circularity, and it drives the business to do more with less at every stage. - Annette unpacks the three pillars of Desso's beauty of circularity strategy: designing products to live multiple lives; developing innovative materials that are made to be remade; and building systems to return flooring at end of life to complete the circular journey. And sometimes, synchronicity steps in to lend a hand!
This week, Deanna Bratter, Chief Sustainability Officer at Crocs, Inc., joins Alyssa Zucker to talk about the company's pioneering initiatives in the circular economy. They discuss Crocs, Inc.'s introduction of the Keep It Going Classic Clog, made with 25% recycled content, and the 2023 launch of their retail take-back program. Tune in for highlights of the challenges and strategies associated with the program, including customer reactions and scalability. Plus, Crocs, Inc.'s social responsibility initiatives within their supply chain, and so much more!
Join massive Canadian DJ BLOND:ISH for a conversation about seeking a life of balance, her philosophy on the exchange of energy and her non-profit “Bye Bye Plastic” which she started to help eradicate single use plastics from all aspects of the music industry. Also joining us is Dr. Kara Wiggin, a plastics researcher at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego. Kara is an ecotoxicologist and as such researches the impacts micro plastic ocean pollution can have on human health. Listen to the end for when arithmetic and numerology go head to head.
The circular gap is immense, even in the fashion industry. Why is it not possible to do business more circularly? Serena Bonomi cites several reasons: from emotionality to incentives to the question of the economic system. Hear for yourself how a pioneer in circular fashion outlines problems and solutions. This episode is part of the series about the CIRCULAZE Summit from November 2024.
In this fourth episode of The Reimagine Edit (TRE) series of the Passive House Podcast, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of insights from Andrew Michler (fire hardening), Tim Lock (designing beyond Passive House), Ed May (modeling), and Michelle Jacobson and Maria Lomanto (healthy interiors).The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.comThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.
BLUE CAST Ep 512 - Sina SteidingerThis BLUE CAST Episode, Tuncay Kilickan talks with Sina Steidinger.Sina Steidinger is a denim designer, sustainability lecturer, and consultant dedicated to shaping the future of circular fashion. Originally from Germany, she relocated in Amsterdam—widely regarded as Europe's denim capital—where she continues to push the boundaries of sustainable design.For Sina, denim is more than just a fabric, and jeans are more than just blue pants. A great pair of jeans should fit perfectly, be comfortable and flattering, and feel effortlessly special— never complicated. And today, denim should also be as circular as possible, but that's only possible when circularity is embedded from the very first sketch of the design process.With a background as Head of Design in Germany and expertise in designing for MUD Jeans, a pioneer in circular denim, Sina seamlessly merges her passion for denim with innovative sustainability practices. She is an active member of Clean & Unique and serves on the advisory board of Circular Textile Days, embedding her work deeply within the Dutch textile community.Beyond design, Sina shares her expertise as a lecturer at multiple fashion universities, equipping the next generation of industry professionals with the knowledge and tools to make responsible choices. Through dynamic workshops, engaging lectures, and thought leadership, she is committed to driving change—because, as she says, she has a blue heart and a green mindset. Tuncay Kilickan - Highly respected Industry figure, having cut his teeth at Turkish giant ISKO spanning 20 years. Most recently Tuncay was part of R&D team of ISKO. Tuncay has a number of patents under his name. No doubt most of us have worn fabrics developed by him and his team. Tuncay takes on the Head of Global Business Development - Denim at LENZING. @carvedinblue @tencel_usa #tenceldenim #tencel #Circularity #circulareconomy BLUE CAST by TENCEL™ / CARVED IN BLUE® A podcast series created Lenzing's TENCEL™ Denim team. Each month, they will host an in-depth talk with a special guest working in the industry or on the fringes of the denim community. Listen for discussions on sustainability, career trajectories, personal denim memories and more.Find us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @carvedinblue.And get in touch: denim@lenzing.com
Circularity has the potential to reshape industries, reduce waste, and regenerate nature. But when it comes to the social side, is it advancing a just transition, or does it risk deepening global inequalities? This webinar discussion took a holistic approach to circularity to explore how circular systems can empower workers, foster economic resilience, and drive sustainable growth for the triple bottom line—people, planet, and profit. Hear insights from: Carmen Gama, director of circularity, Eileen Fisher Dr Hakan Karaosman, associate professor at Cardiff University and co-founder of FReSCH Paul Kerssens, COO and co-founder, United Repair Centre
William Bergh and Eden Yates - Cling Systems ClingSystems is a company dedicated to true battery circularity through wringing out friction and costs associated with battery procurement to create a true battery second life ecosystem.Cling is unique in many ways not the least of which is the fact that this is the company's second time on the podcast. In this episode, we cover how the battery supply chain has evolved, how they think about battery pricing, the use of AI in reducing market friction, recycling versus repurposing, and we finish with advice for entrepreneurs starting out in the battery business.If you enjoyed this episode, please don't forget to hit the like button and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.
https://trellis.net/Sign up today for Circularity 25! https://trellis.net/events/circularity/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmieja/What is the Trellis Group and what do they do to help companies be more sustainable? What happened in Busan Korea at the latest Plastics negotiations? How can you help today? Check out our sponsor Orora Packaging Solutions https://ororapackagingsolutions.com/ FREE TRIAL for Trayak https://ecoimpact.trayak.com/trial-registration https://specright.com/?utm_campaign=2024%20Influencers&utm_source=cory%20connors&utm_content=home%20page https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap. This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.
About the Guest(s):Jon Smieja is the Vice President of Circularity at the Trellis Group. With a professional background that includes a PhD in Chemistry, Jon brings a wealth of knowledge in sustainability and circular economy. Since March 2022, he has been a pivotal force at Trellis Group, helping guide corporate practitioners in their fight against climate change. Jon is based in St. Paul, Minnesota, and is recognized for his expertise and thought leadership in developing actionable strategies towards a more sustainable future.* Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!* Gartner Report* Packaging Pros eBook* Home Page* Book a demo with SpecrightMeyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!* Get the 2023 Sustainability Report* Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!!New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at www.thelabelking.comBook a demo with Trayak (LCA's on demand!)SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. Learn more!The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. Download for your device today!Episode Summary:In this engaging episode, Adam Peek converses with Jon Smieja, the Vice President of Circularity at the Trellis Group, about the evolving landscape of sustainability and circular economy. With his deep insights on the subject, Jon delves into the intricacies of the UN plastic treaty negotiations, the challenges posed by varied global standards on sustainability, and the critical role of policy in fostering innovation. The dialogue provides a comprehensive overview of current sustainability practices and policies, emphasizing the need for standardized regulations to enhance global cooperation.Jon Smieja sheds light on the international efforts to curb plastic pollution, discussing his firsthand experience at recent global meetings in South Korea. He highlights the significant divide between high ambition countries aiming for production caps on plastics and nations focused solely on end-of-life management. As Jon breaks down these complex issues, he reflects on how upcoming policy actions could push for scaling sustainable innovations, ultimately seeking a level playing field for businesses. Echoing the essence of the circular economy, this episode provides insightful perspectives on the progress and ongoing negotiations in the climate change fight.Key Takeaways:* The disparity between high ambition countries and others on managing plastic pollution is a central issue in global negotiations.* Circular economy initiatives necessitate both upstream production controls and enhanced downstream waste management solutions.* The role of policy as an innovation driver is crucial to scaling sustainable technologies and achieving global environmental goals.* Standardization in sustainability regulations is essential for clarity and effective implementation across nations.* Trellis Group events offer actionable insights for practitioners, facilitating collaboration among key stakeholders in sustainability.Notable Quotes:* "You are an authority on the circular economy."* "There's too much… and keep it out of the environment."* "Policy can be a driver… then the costs come down."* "I always think of sort of policy and these sort of requirements as the father of innovation."* "We can address the current plastics challenge with waste management alone."Resources:* Jon Smieja on LinkedIn* Trellis Group: trellis.netStay tuned for more episodes filled with enlightening discussions on the latest in sustainability and the circular economy. Listen to the full episode for an in-depth understanding of all topics covered and more inspiring content.* This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com
Transforming a linear business into a circular one requires the support of many colleagues. But how do you win them over for a circular future? In this episode, Vojtech Vosecky, LinkedIn's Top Green Voice with more than 143k followers, gives an insight into his communication strategy. Whether for building new circular business models, circular product design or improving recycling rates, Vojtech's tips help circularity professionals with internal stakeholder communication. This episode is part of the CIRCULAZE Summit series from November 2024.
Today's guest intersects two key areas for electronics manufacturers: circularity and inventory management. "The cost of a component isn't just the cost of a component. It's the cost to the planet." That's what Kenny McGee, chief executive of Component Sense, says. Component Sense is an Edinburgh, Scotland-based company that leads electronic manufacturers toward zero waste. It takes brand-new, perfectly good excess components and redistributes them to other manufacturers for use. We talk about the market for recycled electronics, how major OEMs are circumventing European Union reuse and recycling laws, what companies can do with excess stock, and the horrific conditions at a reclaim dump in Agbogbloshie, Ghana, that inspired him to make a documentary.
BLUE CAST Ep 511 - LaundReThis BLUE CAST Episode, Tuncay Kilickan talk with Salli Deighton from LaundRe.Salli Deighton is the Founder of LaundRe, the UK's first circular denim finishing hub. LaundRe transforms unsold denim stocks, enables nearshore finishing in flexible quantities, development workshops and supports fast, responsible denim drops to meet the demands of a rapidly changing retail landscape. With over 25 years of experience consulting for brands like Wrangler, Fat Face, Marks & Spencer, and ASOS, Salli has been a leader in driving sustainability within the global denim industry. LaundRe's expert team is united by a shared passion for creating positive change the UK, helping brands reduce their waste, carbon footprint and achieve circularity on shore.Tuncay Kilickan - Highly respected Industry figure, having cut his teeth at Turkish giant ISKO spanning 20 years. Most recently Tuncay was part of R&D team of ISKO. Tuncay has a number of patents under his name. No doubt most of us have worn fabrics developed by him and his team. Tuncay takes on the Head of Global Business Development - Denim at LENZING. @carvedinblue @tencel_usa #tenceldenim #tencel #Circularity #circulareconomy BLUE CAST by TENCEL™ / CARVED IN BLUE® A podcast series created Lenzing's TENCEL™ Denim team. Each month, they will host an in-depth talk with a special guest working in the industry or on the fringes of the denim community. Listen for discussions on sustainability, career trajectories, personal denim memories and more. Find us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @carvedinblue. And get in touchFollowSpotify
I've been reflecting on what's come up over the last series, in episodes 141 to 149. How do we create the conditions for our ideas to spread? Do we fully understand the systems that circular products or services will be embedded in or affected by, how those work, and what keeps them going? It's likely there will be multiple systems, and some of these will be cultural, invisible and hard to disrupt. How much can you change? Could you create a new system that integrates with what's already there? We also look at who you need to convince – your target customers might have a wide range of characteristics and motivations, and they probably want approval – even permission - from colleagues, family or friends. Often, you'll need to convince other parties – supply chain partners, distributors, investors, employees and more. What's the value proposition to them? What pain points are you relieving, and what benefits can you offer? Some circular solutions can solve multiple, disparate problems, either by design or from beneficial side-effects. Are you making this clear, and could it help you get more buy-in, attention and support? The last series covers episodes 141 to 149: 149 Giulia Ziino of CircularPlace: generate value from underused assets 148 Tim Forslund of Sitra: circular solutions for nature 147 Dr Alexandra Leeper of Iceland Ocean Cluster: smarter ways to create value 146 Dr Monika Hauck of Repair Rebels: Making repairs easy & fashionable 145 Evolena de Wilde of Faircado: your AI-powered second-hand shopping assistant 144 Chris Allen of Decathlon: ever-evolving circular design 143 Michael Colarossi of Avery Dennison - Digital Product Passports 142 Anna De Matos of Iceland Tool Library – igniting circular communities 141 Joel Tasche of CleanHub: scaleable solutions to plastic pollution
Did you know that 40% of food is wasted globally? What if we could turn that waste into delicious, nutritious food? In this episode of the Conscious Design Podcast, host Ian Peterman sits down with Dan Kurzrock, CEO of Upcycled Food Inc., to discuss how upcycling can revolutionize the food industry and create a more circular economy. Dan shares his journey from homebrewing beer in college to launching a company that transforms food byproducts into high-value ingredients. Throughout the conversation, they dive into the staggering scale of food waste and why upcycling presents a powerful business opportunity. They explore how circular economy solutions can reduce waste while creating new revenue streams for businesses. Finally, they examine the future of sustainable food, highlighting what both consumers and businesses can do to drive meaningful change in the industry. Notable Moments: 00:00 - Guest Introduction 00:45 - Dan Kurzrock's Journey into Food Waste and the Birth of Upcycled Foods,Inc. 04:44 - The Scale of Food Waste and Industry Circularity 10:25 - Circularity in the Food Industry 20:20 - Global Perspectives and Tools for Tackling Food Waste 31:11 - Certifications, Messaging, and the Growth of Upcycled Foods 49:48 - Market Demand and the Future of Sustainable Foods 54:50 - Final Thoughts and How to Connect About Daniel Kurzrock and Upcycled Foods, Inc. Daniel Kurzrock is the founder and CEO of Upcycled Foods, Inc., a pioneer in upcycled food innovation and food system circularity. He holds a BA from UCLA, where underage homebrewing started it all, and a sustainable MBA from Presidio Graduate School. Upcycled Foods, Inc. (UP, Inc.) powers the B2B upcycled food economy with product development expertise,cutting-edge technology, and a growing portfolio of ingredient solutions, including ReGrained SuperGrain+®. Through its Upcycled Foods LabTM, UP, Inc partners with industry companies of all sizes to close the loop on undervalued supply chains, delivering products with exceptional taste, nutrition, and functionality that meet market and consumer demand. Learn More About Daniel Kurzrock and Upcycled Foods, Inc. (UP, Inc.) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/upcycled-foods Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/regrained/ Website: https://upcycledfoods.com/ Learn More About Conscious Design YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/3sG7VEi Blog: https://bit.ly/3kltV6s Conscious Design Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KNMN9BT Join our Newsletter: https://bit.ly/2U8IlMS Visit our website: https://www.petermanfirm.com/ We created this content so that creative entrepreneurs like you can integrate social and environmental responsibility into your brand's DNA through #ConsciousDesign. Ian Peterman, the leading expert in Conscious Design, hosts the Conscious Design podcast and is the co-author of the book "Conscious Design."
In this episode of Smart Energy Voices, host Debra Chanil speaks with Mike Van Brunt from ReWorld and Sean Trambley from the Circular Economy Coalition about the integration of circular economy principles in the energy sector. Both guests emphasize the economic and environmental benefits of circularity, including waste reduction and energy efficiency, and offer advice for businesses starting to embrace circular economy practices. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in… Circularity and how it differs from other sustainability practices (02:57) Overview of U.S. Circular Economy Coalition (05:20) What a circular economy would look like in the U.S. (07:41) How the federal government defines a circular economy (09:40) How Reworld is incorporating circular economy policies (15:15) The federal government's role in building a more circular economy (18:55) Benefits of incorporating circular economy practices (25:27) Ways to approach circularity (28:27) For detailed show notes, click here. Resources: Federal Circularity Audit and Report Connect with Michael Van Brunt On LinkedIn Michael Van Brunt is currently VP Environmental and Sustainability at Reworld Waste, where he is responsible for corporate sustainability strategy and reporting and environmental compliance, permitting, and monitoring. He leads Reworld's lifecycle analysis team and is a licensed professional engineer with over twenty years of experience in industry and consulting. He is currently the board chair of the Circular Economy Coalition. He earned a B.S. and Masters in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Cornell University. Connect with Sean Trambley On LinkedIn With more than a decade of government relations and strategic communications experience. Sean Trambley began his career in Washington, D.C. as Sr. Policy Advisor to former Congressman Dennis Cardoza (D-CA). Since 2016, Sean has worked as a California-based consultant and strategist. In 2020, Sean joined the Breakthrough Institute as Communications Director, a global research center focused on energy, agriculture, and technological solutions to climate change. He earned a B.A. in American Studies and Legal Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Connect With Smart Energy Decisions Smart Energy Decisions Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to Smart Energy Voices on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Android, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, aCast, PlayerFM, iHeart Radio If you're interested in participating in the next Smart Energy Decision Event, visit smartenergydecisions.com or email our Community Development team at attend@smartenergydecisions.com
In this episode, Associate Professor Marta Andhov and Professor Willem Janssen discuss circularity, and how it relates to public procurement. The hosts begin by introducing the concept of circularity, its promises as well as some points of skepticism. They also explain the concept of the R scale - a useful tool in determining the circularity of an economy. They then move on to the legal aspects and ask how public procurement could be used to encourage circularity and what are the main challenges and uncertainties behind circular public procurement. Willem also introduces his project CIRCLASH. Finally, for today's dessert section, Marta and Willem talk about procurement awards. They discuss the added value of these events, describe their hopes and perspectives, and also provide the listeners with several procurement-related law competitions that could be interesting for students, practitioners, and academics alike.
This week: Innovation Forum's Niamh Campbell and Ian Welsh highlight the upcoming sustainable apparel and textiles conference (Amsterdam, 29th-30th April), featuring thought leaders from leading brands including ASOS, Adidas and Burberry. From actionable strategies for decarbonisation to scaling circularity initiatives, they preview some of the key conference sessions and talk about how to get involved. Plus: some insights from the 2024 apparel conference from Aldi Sud's Hasan Uz Zaman, who discusses the company's approach to addressing human rights risks within a global supply chain. He highlights Aldi Sud's commitment to consumer accountability and ethical sourcing, through social auditing and transparency. Host: Ian Welsh
In this episode, panelists explore the principles of circularity, how companies are using them to transform supply chains and how involving the tax function can enhance the outcome.
SRI360 | Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Investing
In this 3-in-1 compilation episode, we're revisiting the world of the circular economy. As our planet faces escalating environmental challenges, these three pioneers are lighting the way for sustainable business practices that promote ecological resilience and economic prosperity. These are the innovators whose approaches are making a real difference:Ron Gonen, Founder and CEO of Closed Loop Partners Ron shares how his firm is making a real impact across sectors like consumer goods, food, and technology. By tackling supply chain bottlenecks, building recycling infrastructure, and leading projects like the $150 million bottle-to-bottle recycling facility in California, Closed Loop Partners is driving meaningful change. Their efforts have diverted 2.3 million tons of waste from landfills and prevented 5.3 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Ron's work shows that aligning environmental goals with strong economic outcomes isn't just achievable – it's the way forward.Full episode Lucy Mortimer, Co-Founder of Archipelago VenturesLucy is intensely focused on advancing technologies that address material circularity, especially aimed at reducing plastic waste. Through Archipelago Ventures, Lucy is driving strategic investments into startups that are leading the way in recycling and reducing environmental footprints. This effort is fast-tracking our transition to a circular economy, showing that it's absolutely possible to combine strong environmental improvements with solid economic returns.Full episode Karla Mora, Founder and Managing Partner, Alante CapitalKarla is driving transformation in the apparel industry, a massive $3 trillion market primed for innovation. Through Alante Capital, she invests in startups that lead the way in circular and low-carbon solutions. Her strategic focus is reshaping how clothing is produced and consumed, offering a blueprint for sustainable practices in other consumer industries as well. Karla's journey into this space was driven by her ambition to effect systemic change within such a significant economic sector.Full episode—About the SRI 360° Podcast: The SRI 360° Podcast is focused exclusively on sustainable & responsible investing. —Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email update.Visit the SRI360° PODCAST.Visit the SRI360° WEBSITE.Follow SRI360° on X.Follow SRI360° on FACEBOOK. —Key Takeaways:Intro (00:00)Ron Gonen - Closed Loop Partners overview (03:43)Investment strategy, impact measurement & reporting (11:49)Innovation center and industry challenges (23:32)Lucy Mortimer - introduction to Archipelago (30:26)Circular economy and plastics recycling (44:28)AI's impact on waste management (55:46)Archipelago's theory of change and investment strategy (01:03:13)Karla Mora - introduction to Alante Capital (01:09:57)Circular economy in the apparel space (01:17:43) Alante's theory of change (01:24:50) 3 key dimensions of impact and investment strategy (01:28:22) Investment structure and returns (01:42:25)
Today, Dean Stanberry, the immediate past chair of IFMA's Global Board of Directors, delves into the critical emerging trends reshaping the facility management industry. Drawing insights from IFMA's report, 'Evolution is Never Finished,' the episode covers six transformative topics: circular economy, climate change, ESG reporting, PropTech, AI, and workplace wellness. From legislative actions enhancing circularity to AI-driven innovations in predictive maintenance, Dean highlights the evolving responsibilities of facility managers in driving sustainability and resilience.Resources Mentioned:Gamechanger: A Facility Manager's Guide to Building a Relationship with AIEvolution is Never Finished: Insights from IFMA's Emerging Topics Working Group on How Six Key Topics are Transforming the FM IndustryCircular FM: The Role of the Circular Economy in Facility Management Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org
What is mechanical textile recycling?Mechanical textile recycling is a process by which used textiles, particularly those made with natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and linen, are broken down into their individual fibers and then spun into yarn or fabric for reuse in the production of new textiles. Textile recycling has the potential to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions associated with textile production. Mechanical textile recycling involves a series of steps: It typically begins with the collection of used textiles, which are sorted according to their fiber type and quality. Next, the textiles are cleaned and processed to remove impurities and contaminants such as buttons, zippers, and other non-textile materials. Once the textiles have been cleaned and prepared, they are typically shredded or ground into small pieces. These pieces are then subjected to a series of mechanical processes—such as carding, combing, and drawing—to separate the fibers from one another. The resulting fibers are then spun into new yarn or woven into new fabric. The new yarn or fabric can be used in a variety of products, such as clothing, linens, and industrial products, such as building insulation. Mechanical textile recycling could reduce demand for new clothing and other textiles, which could reduce the carbon footprint of the fashion industry. The global fashion industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions: In 2018, it produced around 2.1 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions, equaling between 4% and 10% of the global total—equal to or greater than the annual greenhouse gas emissions of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom combined. About 70% of these emissions came from upstream activities such as textile production, preparation, and processing. The remaining emissions came from downstream activities, including the disposal of textiles in landfills, where they release methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as they decompose. Mechanical textile recycling is a relatively new technology that faces certain technical and economic challenges, including limited ability to recycle synthetic fibers or fiber blends, and a lack of textile recycling infrastructure. For now, according to CalRecycle, the best way to reduce the environmental impact of textiles is “by reducing the amount of textiles we purchase, use, and dispose.” What does Material Return do, and who is Bobby Carswell?Material Return is a textile recycling cooperative based in Morgantown, North Carolina, that works with local manufacturers and national brands to transform textile waste into new products. Material Return recently partnered with Smartwool, an American clothing producer, to collect 400,000 pairs of used socks to recycle them into yarn for use in new socks and other circular clothing products. Bobby Carswell is the research and development director at Material Return. Sources:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8588244/https://calrecycle.ca.gov/reducewaste/textiles/https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fmw8Ap7JAI0frmoXiZKR3_qeB1gWxDGp/viewhttps://textileexchange.org/climate+-dashboard/https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/industries/retail/our%20insights/fashion%20on%20climate/fashion-on-climate-full-report.pdfhttps://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-08-12/fast-fashion-turning-parts-ghana-into-toxic-landfill/100358702https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/30/style/clothing-recycling.htmlhttps://www.thematerialreturn.com/https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffkart/2022/05/12/400000-pairs-of-old-socks-will-be-spun-turned-into-recycled-yarn-by-material-return-smartwool-project/?sh=4ca5c2f95e9dhttps://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/headlines/society/20201208STO93327/the-impact-of-textile-production-and-waste-on-the-environment-infographic#:~:text=Textile%20production%20is%20estimated%20to,into%20the%20ocean%20a%20year. For a transcript, please visit https://climatebreak.org/bringing-local-textile-recyling-to-the-us-with-material-returns-bobby-carswell/
Next live event here: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLR5FN2CP7W57/checkout/2LK2ZBXTKO5QW5ND4IGMYVRI Send Superchats at any time here: https://streamlabs.com/jaydyer/tip Get started with Bitcoin here: https://www.swanbitcoin.com/jaydyer/ The New Philosophy Course is here: https://marketplace.autonomyagora.com/philosophy101 Set up recurring Choq subscription with the discount code JAY44LIFE for 44% off now https://choq.com Lore coffee is here: https://www.patristicfaith.com/coffee/ Orders for the Red Book are here: https://jaysanalysis.com/product/the-red-book-essays-on-theology-philosophy-new-jay-dyer-book/ Subscribe to my site here: https://jaysanalysis.com/membership-account/membership-levels/ Follow me on R0kfin here: https://rokfin.com/jaydyerBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jay-sanalysis--1423846/support.
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I sit down with Jon Goriup, Co-Founder and CEO of VCG AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way industries think about waste and sustainability. Jon and his team are pioneering an innovative approach to transforming industrial byproducts into valuable resources, helping companies cut emissions and uncover new revenue streams in the process.We delve into the mechanics of circular value chains, where waste becomes an asset rather than a liability. Jon explains how VCG AI uses cutting-edge data analytics and AI to map material flows, evaluate waste streams, and recommend optimal upcycling processes—saving companies time and resources while delivering tangible economic and environmental benefits.Some of the key highlights include:The shift in mindset as companies realise the economic potential of waste and embrace circular supply chains.Real-world examples, such as transforming spent grains and yeast from breweries into high-value food ingredients.How AI accelerates decision-making and implementation, allowing firms to move from analysis to action quickly and effectively.The challenges companies face, from navigating complex regulations to addressing non-core business activities, and how these can be mitigated.The role of collaboration across supply chains and how VCG AI is enabling large-scale circular transformations, even at the regional level.Jon also shares how industries and governments can work together to accelerate this transition, the KPIs that matter most, and the broader implications for sustainability globally.If you're curious about how technology is reshaping sustainability or looking to gain practical insights iElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain' podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.
In this episode, Hydrocarbon Processing speaks with Amanda Martin, Global Communications Lead, Global Impact Coalition, to discuss how her organization is working with some of the largest petrochemical/chemical producers to reduce carbon emissions and facilitate circularity in the global petrochemicals sector.
Pastor Terry A. Smith - When we understand that we are given the gift of grace from God, we can give that grace to others, give back everything to God, and continue to show thanks for what God has done for us.
Today Garry Cooper, CEO and Co-Founder of Rheaply sits down with Dean Stanberry, the immediate past chair of IFMA's Global Board of Directors, to discuss the concept and implementation of a circular economy in facility management. They emphasize the importance of knowing and managing inventories to enable circular practices, the role of technology and data, and practical steps for organizations to begin their journey toward more sustainable operations.Resources from the episode:RheaplyCircular FM: The Role of the Circular Economy in Facility Management Research Report Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org
How To Scale Sustainable Technology - Ep 188Discover how Aduro Clean Technologies is revolutionizing plastics recycling with innovative chemical solutions that transform contaminated plastics into valuable feedstocks. Victoria Meyer welcomes Eric Appelman, Chief Revenue Officer at Aduro, to delve into the shift from traditional chemistry to green, renewable technologies, the challenges of commercializing sustainable solutions, and the impact of carbon pricing and consumer behavior on sustainability. Eric shares insights on Aduro's unique approach to chemical recycling, emphasizing the limitations of mechanical methods and the company's pioneering technology that operates at lower conditions to efficiently remove contaminants. The conversation also touches on the importance of profitability in sustainability, the role of government regulations, and the global interest in viable recycling technologies. Learn how Aduro is setting the stage for a circular economy in the chemical industry with their upcoming plans for scaling operations and listing on NASDAQ. Join us to learn more about the following topics this week: Aduro Clean Technologies' initial focus and what it is today Commercial viability and financial sustainability of green solutions Circularity - an inherent part of the chemical industry Consumer behavior and recycling in different regions Aduro's approach is to sustainability and technology and how they are finding solutions Customer and market response to Aduro's technology and offerings Critical Leadership traits for growth Future plans for Aduro Clean Technologies Killer Quote: "Sustainability isn't just about doing the right thing for the environment; it's about ensuring the solutions we create are commercially viable. It's a natural selection process where only the most efficient and market-ready technologies will survive, similar to the evolution of the car industry in the early 1900s." --Eric Appelman Other links: Aduro Clean Technologies Announces Pricing of US$4 Million Uplisting to Nasdaq ***Don't miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player. ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com Celebrating 40 years, the World Petrochemical Conference by S&P Global is the most prestigious global industry gathering for chemical innovation, insight, and collaboration. WPC has a rich history of providing unmatched market intelligence and convening top industry leaders and influential thinkers to discuss the solutions that will unlock pathways for growth and transformation. Join us in Houston, TX, March 17-21, 2025, to commemorate our 40th Anniversary! Visit their website to learn more.
A fascinating conversation with Solgaard, where quality design meets sustainability. This episode explores how innovative product design can enhance our daily experiences while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Key topics: The philosophy of making every moment count and how that influences design How recycled materials transform into premium, long-lasting products Problem-solving through sustainable product development The intersection of durability, functionality, and environmental consciousness Reimagining everyday items through a circular economy lens Discover Solgaard's approach to creating products that not only solve practical challenges but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Check out their products here - https://solgaard.co/