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Send me a messageIn this episode of Climate Confident, I speak with Alice Chun, inventor of the world's first inflatable, origami-inspired solar light and founder of Solight Design. Alice shares how a career in material technology and a deeply personal experience with her son's asthma led her to tackle energy poverty, disaster relief, and carbon emissions with a single, deceptively simple product: the SolarPuff™.We discuss the staggering health and environmental toll of kerosene lighting, especially in off-grid and disaster-affected communities — and how collapsible, durable solar lanterns are not only cleaner and safer, but can also act as tools for education, safety, and psychological recovery.Alice walks us through the practical design choices (like sailcloth and origami folds) that make the lights lightweight, shippable, and long-lasting. She also unpacks her field experiences from Haiti to Ukraine, why she insists on personally delivering lights, and the complex balance of running a mission-driven company that also needs to survive commercially.Key takeaways:Why light access is essential for disaster resilience and safetyHow solar design can scale through beauty, durability, and functionThe unexpected link between solar tech and trauma recovery in childrenWhat business models can sustain social impact in climate techFor more, visit https://solight-design.com or head to climateconfidentpodcast.com.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I sat down with John Sturman, Managing Director at NatPower UK, to dig deep into the realities of grid decarbonisation and energy transition at nation scale.John pulled back the curtain on how NatPower is scaling up battery storage and renewable projects not just in the UK, but across the globe. From developing Europe's largest battery storage pipeline to pioneering power solutions for maritime decarbonisation, this conversation gets into the detail of what's needed to hit net zero — and what's holding us back.We discussed:Why the UK is currently one of the strongest global markets for battery storageThe urgent grid reform needed to meet the UK's 2030 clean power targetsHow long-duration battery storage could replace gas peaker plants sooner than expectedThe overlooked challenge (and opportunity) of decarbonising the shipping industryWhy AI will be essential to balancing increasingly complex power gridsAnd why empowering communities is critical to speeding up the clean energy build-outJohn didn't shy away from naming the bottlenecks — planning delays, outdated infrastructure, and regulatory barriers — but he also laid out practical fixes that could unlock faster deployment of clean power.If you're serious about understanding the mechanics behind the transition to a net zero grid, this is one you don't want to miss.Listen now and get climate confident.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
(0:50) - Sustainable building components create a good indoor climate Become a founding reader of our newsletter: http://read.thenextbyte.com/ As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.
Have you ever had a business idea that sounded too wild to work? Don't dismiss it just yet! In this episode, Deborah sits down with Vanessa Thompson to discuss the power of innovation and sustainability in building a thriving business. If you've ever doubted your ideas because they seemed too different, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your creativity and take action. Success often comes from the boldest ideas, so don't be afraid to be unique! Here are the things to expect in the episode:How sustainability can drive innovation and business success.Some businesses that have successfully integrated sustainability into their models and achieved success.The superpower of active listening, particularly for women leaders.How nature-inspired solutions (biomimicry) can lead to groundbreaking innovations.And much more! About Vanessa:Vanessa Thompson is a sustainability and finance expert with a decade of experience at the UN Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, the World Bank, JLL Spark Ventures, and Silicon Valley startups. Her podcast has featured icons like Olympian Venus Williams and top industry leaders. A Summa Cum Laude graduate of U.C. Berkeley (B.S. Environmental Economics) with an MBA from Santa Clara University, Vanessa's upcoming book explores sustainable leadership as a driver of business innovation. Connect with Vanessa Thompson!Website: https://www.the-sustainability-experts.com/Vanessa's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessathompson5/The Sustainability Experts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-sustainability-experts/The Sustainability Experts Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sustainability-experts/id1727766301Book Recommendations:Reason for Hope: A Spiritual Journey by Jane Goodall Connect with Deborah Kevin:Website: www.deborahkevin.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/debbykevinwriterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-kevin/Book Recommendations: https://bookshop.org/shop/storytellher Check out Highlander Press:Website: www.highlanderpressbooks.comTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highlanderpressInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/highlanderpressFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/highlanderpress
Are you a figure skater, hockey player, or just love gliding on ice? ❄️ Imagine skating on a surface that feels like real ice—but with zero refrigeration and lower energy costs! ⚡
Send us a textExploring the Future of Green Technology in Trucking with Mike KucharskiIn this episode of the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast, host Chris is joined by Mike Kucharski, VP of JKC Trucking, to discuss the advancements, challenges, and potential alternatives in green technology for the long-haul trucking industry. They delve into the feasibility of natural gas, hydrogen, and electric power as replacements for diesel engines, with Mike providing insights into the current state and future prospects of these technologies. They also examine specific innovations like the Shell Starship and Nikola trucks, and the practical hurdles such as infrastructure, costs, and performance issues. Additionally, the discussion touches on regulatory perspectives, including upcoming mandates and tax breaks, and the broader impact on the supply chain and pricing for consumers.Mike's Contact Info:Jkctrucking.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kucharski-86745a115/Your Hosts:John FarquharNational Risk Services Specialist, Transportation, Gallager GGBhttps://www.ajg.com/ca/M: 437-341-0932John_Farquhar@ajg.comChris HarrisCEO, Safety Dawg Inc.905 973 7056Chris@SafetyDawg.comhttps://safetydawg.com/00:00 Introduction to Green Technology in Trucking00:38 Meet Mike Kucharski: VP of JKC Trucking01:53 The Shell Starship: A Futuristic Truck02:23 Natural Gas Engines: Pros and Cons03:39 Hydrogen and Electric Trucks: The Future?05:16 Challenges with New Truck Technologies14:56 Economic Impact of Green Technology21:32 The Role of Diesel in the Future of Trucking25:09 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsKeeping it Safety Dawg Simple!#trucksafety #truckinsurance #truckpodcastDo you need a "Truck Driver Safety Policy?" Get it today! https://safetydawg.com/policy
Send me a messageIn this episode of Climate Confident, I sit down with Jarand Rystad, CEO of Rystad Energy, to take a hard look at where we are in the global energy transition and whether we're moving fast enough to meet climate targets.We discuss:How disruptive technologies are reshaping the energy landscape – and why the transition would happen even without climate concerns.Why solar, wind, and battery technologies are now economically outcompeting fossil fuels.The China paradox – leading the world in renewables while still expanding coal power.Whether current momentum is fast enough to keep warming below 1.5°C.The overlooked challenges – from sustainable aviation fuel to long-duration energy storage.The role of policy and regulation in shaping the speed and direction of the transition.We also touch on AI's rising energy demand, how agrivoltaics and floating solar could resolve land use concerns, and why hydrogen won't be the all-encompassing energy solution some envision.Rystad brings data-driven insights into what's working, where we're lagging, and the key economic and technological trends shaping the future of energy. If you want a clear-eyed analysis of the energy transition, this episode is a must-listen.
Renowned environmentalist, author, and journalist, Bill Mckibben joins us to discuss the landscape of renewable energy and climate action. We explore key developments, including the rapid adoption of solar power, China's leadership in clean energy technology, and the impact of recent climate policies like the Inflation Reduction Act.
Jane Melia is the CEO and Co-Founder of Harvest Thermal, revolutionizing home heating with heat batteries.Jane's journey began with a vision to make home electrification both cost-effective and climate-friendly. Harvest Thermal has developed a patented system that combines heat pumps with thermal storage, reducing household emissions by 90% and energy bills by 30%, all while providing unparalleled comfort.Here's the kicker: Jane and her team have successfully navigated the challenges of hardware deployment, secured millions in grant funding, and built a business that's not only scalable but also grid-friendly and future-proof.With heating and hot water responsible for 10% of global emissions, Harvest Thermal is tackling one of the toughest climate challenges, turning it into a win for homeowners and the planet.Get the full episode today to hear:How Harvest Thermal is cutting bills and emissions while keeping homes cozyThe secrets to scaling hardware technology in a competitive marketWhy heat batteries are the key to making electrification affordable and sustainableHow Jane balances product innovation with deployment strategy to drive impact at scaleDon't miss a moment! If you want to get the full discussion, become a paid subscriber today or redeem your trial upgrade to test it out.
Martin Freimüller, the CEO and Co-Founder of Octavia Carbon, a cutting-edge Direct Air Capture (DAC) company based in KenyaMartin's journey began with a deep appreciation for Africa's potential and the realization that Kenya, with its abundant geothermal energy and skilled talent pool, is the perfect location for DAC. In just two and a half years, Octavia Carbon has developed patented technology, grown to a team of 61 (40 of them engineers), and even built Kenya's first DAC pilot facility.Here's the kicker: they've managed to secure millions in prepaid carbon revenue to fund their projects — all before raising their $5M seed round. Octavia's tech pulls CO2 from the air, stores it underground as minerals, and leverages Kenya's unmatched renewable energy resources to make the process both cost-effective and scalable.Reliable and affordable carbon removal is critical to the fight against climate change, and Octavia Carbon is showing that emerging markets can lead the charge.Get the full episode today to hear:How they got customers to prepay millions for their pilot projectsWhy Kenya is the global sweet spot for DACThe role clean energy and carbon storage play in shaping Africa's economyWhat makes Direct Air Capture the hardest engineering challenge in the world—and why Octavia is ready to solve it
In this episode of Environment Variables, host Chris Adams sits down with Mark Bjornsgaard of Deep Green to explore a transformative approach to data center design and sustainability. Mark shares insights into how Deep Green reimagines traditional data centers by co-locating them in urban areas to provide heat reuse for facilities like swimming pools, district heating systems, and industrial processes. They discuss the challenges of planning and policy, the rise of high-density computing driven by AI, and the potential for data centers to become integral components of community infrastructure. Tune in to learn about the intersection of digital innovation and environmental responsibility, and how new business models can turn waste into opportunity.
Beliefs about climate change vary, and one big difference of opinion is whether we should try to do anything about it. One way of getting people to do something about climate change is through tax incentives. But what makes one company take advantage of tax breaks for green technology, while another company does nothing? Do the company's beliefs about climate change matter? And how would you know what a company believes, anyway? These are the kinds of questions Giri Kanagaretnam can answer. Giri is a Professor of Accounting at the Schulich School of Business, where he holds the Ron Binns Chair in Financial Reporting, Banking and Governance. Hosted and produced by Cameron Graham, Professor of Accounting at York University. Visit our website at podcastorperish.ca.
(04:44) - 163. Creating 3D Objects With AI(07:40) - 168. Neuroprosthetics: The Next Step Towards Limb Reconstruction(10:37) - 164. Dyson's Automated, Self-sustaining Strawberry Farm(13:40) - 177. Did A Shrimp Fry This Rice? No, A Robot Did(16:47) - 172. Don't Throw Away Coffee Grounds; They Could Solve The World's Water Crisis!(19:49) - 191. From Prevention to Recovery: AI in Disaster Management(22:29) - 181. Why Audi Uses 3D Printers For The R8(25:35) - 199. Will AI Assistants Make Your Doctor Better?(28:32) - 189. Stanford & Toyota Drift Cars With AI(31:50) - 173. Get 3 Days of Your Life Back Every Year with Smart Stoplights(33:44) - 192. Karsten Roscher & The Need For Safe AI (Interview) This episode was brought to you by Mouser, our favorite place to get electronics parts for any project, whether it be a hobby at home or a prototype for work. Click HERE to learn more about the speed-bumps of AI a la data! Become a founding reader of our newsletter: http://read.thenextbyte.com/ As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.
Send me a messageHi, Tom Raftery here! In this special episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I look back on 2024's 47 episodes of the podcast. Fittingly given the rise in popularity of AI, I do this through the lens of Google Notebook's AI-generated insights. So in this 2024 review, we're unpacking three major themes from the year:AI's Role in Sustainability: From satellite monitoring of deforestation to predictive maintenance that cuts waste and improves safety, AI has revolutionised how companies approach sustainability.Collaboration is Key: Sustainability thrives on partnerships, whether it's businesses working with suppliers to tackle Scope 3 emissions or startups collaborating with corporates for fresh solutions. It's all about breaking down silos and raising the bar together.Circular Economy in Action: Moving from “take, make, waste” to “reduce, reuse, recycle,” businesses are finding innovative ways to repurpose waste and rethink design for lasting impact.2024 proved sustainability isn't optional—it's essential for resilience, growth, and survival. I'll be back on 6th January with exciting new episodes. Happy holidays and here's to a sustainable 2025!What's Next?Catch upcoming episodes with Jenna Fink and Kristin Naragon. Like, share, and subscribe to keep the momentum going!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.
What does it take to tackle the world's biggest challenge—climate change—while driving profit and innovation? Meet Doerte Hirschberg, a visionary investor reshaping industries with bold ideas and data-driven solutions.In this episode, Doerte takes us on a journey of how her team at Climentum Capital uses measurable CO2 impact as their guiding star. She shares insights into why the future of sustainable industries lies in rethinking systems, embracing new technologies, and focusing on the bigger picture. From transforming dairy into vegan alternatives to unlocking the potential of the hydrogen economy, her lessons are as inspiring as they are actionable.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an investor, or someone passionate about sustainability, this conversation will teach you:Why CO2 is the most powerful KPI to measure climate impact.How industries like food and transport are being revolutionized with technology like precision fermentation.The secret to avoiding overhyped trends while investing in solutions that truly make a difference.At the heart of it all, Doerte's optimism, strategic mindset, and passion for innovation make this episode a masterclass in balancing ambition with sustainability. As she says, “The world doesn't need more overhyped investments. It needs smarter ones.”Curious for more? Listen to the full episode here and dive deeper into Doerte's remarkable journey. Quotes:(10:40) "We need to feed 7 billion people with less land, less animals, and less CO2—this isn't just a challenge, it's an opportunity to rethink the future of food."(17:26) "Imagine a world where climate change isn't just a problem we talk about, but a challenge we've conquered—with measurable impact and real change."(14:01) "Biases are everywhere—even in venture capital. The industry claims it wants women, yet the system subtly works against them. It's time for that to change."Timestamps(0:00) Can We Balance Profit with Saving the Planet?(1:08) Why CO2 is the Key Metric for Climate Impact(3:07) The Challenges and Opportunities of Climate Tech(8:10) Why LPs Should Invest in Elemental Capital(11:12) The Future of Vegan Cheese with Fermify(14:01) Breaking Biases in Venture Capital(18:46) Vision for a Sustainable Future Don't miss this chance to learn from Doerte Hirschberg's journey, her inspiring vision, and her sharp strategies to reshape the future. Press play, and let's spark some change together!Send us a textSupport the showJoin the Podcast Newsletter: Link
Send us a textWhat does it take for Africa to lead the charge in sustainable industrialization? Join us on this enlightening conversation with Dorcas Jelagat Tuitoek , a PhD student at the University of Oxford, whose research on industrial decarbonization in the steel industry is setting a new standard for green technology. Discover how Dorcas transitioned from a promising career at Deloitte to becoming a key player in the global effort to combat climate change. Support the showFollow the show on:Twitter: @RootofscipodInstagram: @Rootofscipod YouTube: The Root Of The Science PodcastFacebook: The Root of The Science Podcast LinkedIn: The Root Of The Science PodcastWebsite
In this episode of Environment Variables, host Anne Currie speaks to Wilco Burggraaf, a lead green practitioner and architect at HighTech Innovators, for an engaging discussion on integrating sustainability into software development. Wilco shares his journey into green software, the inspiration behind his innovative workshops, and his efforts to build a vibrant green tech community in the Netherlands. The conversation explores his articles on the Software Carbon Intensity standard, the complexities of balancing micro and macro sustainability goals, and the synergy between FinOps and green software. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to make greener choices in tech while aligning sustainability with business goals.
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.
What You'll LearnThe Birth of Formula E: How Alberto turned a vision for an electric racing championship into reality.Sustainability at the Core: Strategies that make Formula E a global leader in carbon-neutral events.Tech Transfer: How innovations from Formula E are influencing everyday electric vehicles.Logistical Feats: Behind the scenes of moving 300 tons of equipment across continents sustainably.Breaking Barriers in Motorsport: Formula E's approach to inclusivity, affordability, and talent-first driver recruitment.Highlights[00:05:00] – The bold idea of creating a net-zero electric racing championship.[00:17:00] – Logistics of racing in 33 cities: moving 300 tons of equipment with a reduced carbon footprint.[00:25:00] – How Formula E's battery transport protocols influenced global EV logistics regulations.[00:31:00] – Formula E's unique all-weather tires: sustainable, efficient, and performance-ready.[00:36:00] – Formula E's commitment to talent-first recruitment and cost caps in motorsports.Quotes[00:03:00] – “Sometimes you need to be persistent and follow your dreams.” – Alberto Longo[00:13:00] – “Formula E is not just a sport, it's a platform for education and innovation in sustainability.” – Alberto Longo[00:25:00] – “Efficiency is our commitment to the world. Every year, we do bigger events with fewer emissions.” – Alberto Longo[00:37:00] – “Talent should be the gateway to motorsports, not wealth. We're changing that with Formula E.” – Alberto LongoAbout the GuestAlberto Longo is the Co-founder and Chief Championship Officer of Formula E, a revolutionary all-electric motorsport. With a background in finance and law, Alberto transitioned into motorsports with a vision to make racing sustainable, inclusive, and innovative. His leadership has transformed Formula E into the fourth largest motorsport globally, with a profound impact on electric vehicle technology and urban mobility. Connect with Alberto Longo on LinkedInExplore Formula E: Formula E Official Website Subscribe and Keep Learning!If you're a logistics leader looking to scale sustainably, don't miss out! Subscribe for more expert strategies on tackling modern supply chain challenges. Be sure to follow and tag the eCom Logistics Podcast on LinkedIn and YouTube
To the majority of humankind, rocks may appear to be static, timeless objects, but not to the geologist Marcia Bjornerud. In her mind, rocks are rich pieces of text that have evolved (and continue to evolve) across millennia, and are therefore incredibly timeful. “They almost demand reading,” Bjornerud says on this episode of Time Sensitive. “You have the feeling that you're communicating with some larger, wilder, more ancient wisdom.” A two-time Senior Fulbright Scholar, a professor of geology at Lawrence University in Wisconsin, and an expert on the geophysics of earthquakes and mountain building, Bjornerud serves as a sort of geological translator of these “texts,” reading their encrypted messages and stories—tracing their etymologies, essentially—and from there inferring why things are the way they are. Bjornerud's translations shine across her four books, including the newly published Turning to Stone: Discovering the Subtle Wisdom of Rocks.On the episode, she discusses the power of looking at the world through a Deep Time lens, why we're currently in what she considers a “golden age” of geoscience, and what a “time literate” society would mean for humanity and the planet.Special thanks to our Season 10 presenting sponsor, L'École, School of Jewelry Arts.Show notes:Marcia Bjornerud[15:18] Timefulness: How Thinking Like a Geologist Can Help Save the World[07:16] Turning to Stone: Discovering the Subtle Wisdom of Rocks[07:16] “Studying Stones Can Rock Your World”[07:16] Geopedia: A Brief Compendium of Geologic Curiosities[07:16] Carbon cycle[09:47] Rock deformation[13:54] The overview effect[17:42] “Geology Is Like Augmented Reality for the Planet”[21:28] Colonization of Mars[21:28] Anthropocene[29:06] Planned obsolescence[29:06] Green technology revolution[31:40] Seventh Generation Principle[34:01] Stonehenge[38:29] University of Minnesota[41:02] Svalbard, Norway[41:02] Norwegian Polar Institute[44:15] Yoshihide Ohta[50:06] “Lost Time in Amatrice”[54:19] Kola Superdeep Borehole
In this episode of the Insiders Guide to Energy podcast, hosts Chris Sass and Jeff McAulay welcome Joe Mastrangelo, CEO of EOS Energy Storage, to discuss the transformative potential of long-duration energy storage solutions. Focusing on EOS's innovative zinc-based battery technology, Joe explains the advantages of a non-lithium battery system for applications that demand flexibility, scalability, and safety. He highlights how this eco-friendly, fire-resistant technology offers a promising alternative for sectors requiring durable, sustainable energy solutions, from utilities to industrial applications. Joe shares EOS's journey to establishing a resilient and primarily U.S.-based supply chain—a move that has not only driven growth but also strengthened the company's position amidst global supply chain disruptions. By building in Pennsylvania's Mon Valley, EOS has brought jobs back to an area once defined by manufacturing while creating a streamlined, secure production process. Joe emphasizes the importance of using widely available raw materials, which allows EOS to lower production costs while contributing to the U.S. economy and reducing dependency on foreign supply chains. Listeners interested in renewable energy will appreciate Joe's insights on the demand for long-duration storage, which he sees as essential for a sustainable energy grid. He discusses EOS's growth strategy, including upcoming pilot projects and the critical role of customer trust, bankability, and partnerships in scaling new technologies. This episode offers a compelling look into how EOS Energy Storage is paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient energy infrastructure by overcoming financial, logistical, and technological challenges. We were pleased to host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-mastrangelo-ab974357/ Visit our website: https://insidersguidetoenergy.com/
Send me a messageIn this episode of *Climate Confident*, I'm joined by Viktor Meier, CEO and co-founder of Glice, a company that's transforming ice sports by creating eco-friendly, zero-energy synthetic ice rinks. We dive into the story behind Glice, exploring how Viktor's early commitment to environmental issues led him on a journey to revolutionise ice skating without the environmental cost of traditional ice rinks.Viktor shares how Glice was born out of a desire to maintain the joy and accessibility of ice sports while tackling some of the massive energy and water demands typically associated with them. Their solution? High-tech synthetic panels that don't require refrigeration, eliminating the energy and water waste typical of regular ice. Remarkably, each Glice rink can cut energy use comparable to the needs of thousands of homes, making it a powerful tool for sustainability, and emissions reduction. Viktor explains that the product's durability and ability to be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life add further to its eco-credentials.We also discuss the broader implications for ice sports as global warming makes natural ice scarcer, even in traditionally cold regions. From the NHL to local communities and even Hollywood film sets, Glice has found a unique niche in over 100 countries, showing how sustainable innovations can be globally adaptable.So, if you're interested in how sustainable innovation can preserve the essence of an activity while slashing its carbon footprint, or simply curious about how synthetic ice works, tune in for an insightful conversation with Viktor. Don't miss it!Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
China is the world's largest energy consumer and carbon emitter, accounting for one-third of global CO2 emissions. One of its biggest sources of emissions is coal, which plays a central role in China's economy. At the same time, however, China is the world's leading supplier of renewable energy, largely due to significant government investments in green technologies, including solar manufacturing, batteries, and minerals. In September 2020, China's leader Xi Jinping announced the goal of achieving peak CO2 emissions before 2030 and carbon neutrality before 2060.” This ambitious pledge, if realized, will be an important step in global efforts to limit global warming.In the past few years, the increasingly competitive and fraught relationship between the United States and China has spilled into the climate domain, threatening the potential for both countries to work together to address climate change. That is the topic of a recent commentary co-authored by Margaret Pearson and Michael Davidson. The paper is titled, “Where are the US and China on addressing climate change?”, and it can be found on the Brookings Institution website. In this episode of China Global, host Bonnie Glaser speaks with one of the authors, Michael Davidson, who is an assistant professor at the School of Global Policy and Strategy and the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department of the Jacobs School of Engineering at the University of California San Diego. Timestamps[01:57] China's Approach to Addressing Climate Change[04:26] Considerations Behind China's Climate Policy [07:37] Doubling Down on Coal Domestically[10:34] Evaluating China's Progress Toward Carbon Neutrality[14:42] Security and China's Climate Change Policy[19:13] China's International Climate Cooperation[22:45] US-China Working Group on Enhancing Climate Action [30:27] The Green Belt and Road Initiative
Arjun Jairaj is an investor at noa, a London-based VC firm focused on early-stage ventures in the built environment across North America and Europe. With experience spanning private equity, startup founding, and advisory roles, Arjun has worked in India, the UK, and beyond, including founding a shared economy startup called Plonk. At noa, he focuses on real estate, construction, energy, and mobility, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and climate technology. In this episode, Arjun shares insights on:Navigating regional investment differencesThe impact of political landscapes on climate techEmerging opportunities in robotics and decentralized energy systems.
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In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I speak with Shauna Higgins and Tristan McCallum from IDA Ireland about the country's ambitious offshore wind energy goals and its growing green economy initiatives. Ireland is quickly positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy, with a target of achieving 5GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030, and scaling up to 20GW by 2040. With an eye toward creating 37GW by 2050, Ireland is on a clear path to not only meet its own energy needs but to generate surplus capacity, opening up exciting investment opportunities and fostering innovation in sectors like energy storage, AI, and digital technologies. Shauna and Tristan walk us through the current state of Ireland's offshore wind ecosystem, which is driven by strategic policy frameworks like the Future Framework and the €5 billion grid infrastructure plan known as Shaping Our Electricity Future. These initiatives are laying the groundwork for Ireland's sustainable development, attracting international players and fostering a strong business environment for renewable energy companies. With over 300 wind farms already generating 4.8GW of power, Ireland ranks third globally for installed wind power per capita, and the momentum is growing as the country hosts its first offshore wind auction, granting 3GW of projects. We also discuss how IDA Ireland is helping companies embrace the twin transition of digital and green technologies, supporting industries that are eager to tap into Ireland's emerging renewable energy surplus. From energy storage innovations to the growing potential of hydrogen for industrial use, Ireland's offshore wind strategy is opening doors for tech-driven advancements in sectors such as AI, quantum computing, and semiconductor manufacturing. Shauna and Tristan provide insights into how Ireland is leveraging its natural resources, talent pool, and pro-business policies to create a robust ecosystem for offshore wind energy. With top-tier training centers like the National Maritime College and a highly skilled workforce, Ireland is not just building a sustainable future but leading the way for other countries to follow. Tune in to discover how Ireland's offshore wind initiatives are driving new opportunities for businesses and helping to shape the future of renewable energy. Could Ireland's investment in offshore wind become a global model for sustainable growth? Shauna and Tristan share their thoughts on the exciting potential ahead.
Send me a messageHi everyone, Tom Raftery here, and welcome to episode 188 of the Climate Confident podcast. In this episode, I had a fascinating conversation with Michael Barnard, a climate futurist who's spent the last 15 years delving deep into the challenges and solutions around climate change.Michael and I discussed the often controversial topic of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). We explored why mechanical carbon capture technologies, particularly those promoted by the fossil fuel industry, may not be the panacea they're often touted to be. Michael shed light on the stark differences in climate policies between countries with and without fossil fuel industries, highlighting how nations without such industries focus more on nature-based solutions like reforestation and wetland restoration.We delved into the limitations of direct air capture technologies, examining why they struggle to scale effectively and why they may not be the most efficient use of resources. Michael also discussed the challenges associated with oceanic carbon capture methods and how they can inadvertently harm marine ecosystems.One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the importance of prioritising emission reductions at the source. Michael emphasised the potential of sustainable construction practices, such as using cross-laminated timber, to both sequester carbon and reduce reliance on high-emission materials like cement.We also touched on the risks associated with transporting captured CO2, citing real-world examples that underscore the safety concerns.This episode is a deep dive into the complexities of CCUS and offers valuable insights into why focusing on emission reduction and investing in renewable energy solutions might be more effective paths forward.I hope you find this discussion as enlightening as I did. Don't forget to click follow on this podcast in your app of choice to ensure you don't miss any future episodes. Thanks for tuning in!Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Devaang Bhatt Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
(3:00) - Printing with earth-based materialsThis episode was brought to you by Mouser, our favorite place to get electronics parts for any project, whether it be a hobby at home or a prototype for work. Click HERE to learn more about the history of additive manufacturing and why it is so critical to adopt in the construction sector! Become a founding reader of our newsletter: http://read.thenextbyte.com/ As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.
Today, we're bringing you a best-of from our archive of over 250 episodes. We're all aware that the consequences of climate change range from rising sea levels, to drought, wildfires, economic disruption and the displacement of populations. We're seeing and living through many of these effects, but is there hope for managing additional risk? A couple years ago we sat down with environmental scientist Chris Field to ask this question. He shared that it's still possible to pave the way to a sustainable future. Take another listen to this episode to hear more about how he thinks we can do this together.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Chris FieldOriginal Episode: How to fight climate change | Stanford University School of EngineeringConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Chris Field, a professor of earth systems science and biology at Stanford.(00:01:59) The Status of Climate ChangeThe current status of global warming and the need for ongoing emissions reductions.(00:03:17) Understanding CO2 and TemperatureThe linear relationship between CO2 emissions and global warming.(00:05:00) Is Zero Emissions Feasible?The UN's climate goals and why both mitigation and adaptation are crucial.(00:06:04) Global Collaboration for Climate ActionThe role of both private sector innovations and global political collaboration in climate action.(00:08:22) Mitigation and Adaptation StrategiesProgress made in strategies for mitigating climate change and adapting to its effects.(00:11:25) Climate Impact on DisastersHow rising temperatures exacerbate coastal flooding and wildfire risks.(00:14:07) Adaptation to Coastal FloodingInsights into strategies such as improving infrastructure and planned relocation.(00:16:47) Adaptation to WildfiresAssessment of fire management policies and the challenges of wildfire risk in high-risk regions.(00:19:03) Technological Innovations in Climate ChangeThe potential for future technological innovations to solve climate change.(00:20:54) Ukraine Conflict and Climate ChangeThe surprising connection between the Ukraine conflict and global climate change.(00:23:41) Individual Impact on Climate ChangeHow individuals can make contributions to combating climate change in their everyday lives.(00:25:57) The Role of Young People in Climate ChangeThe role young people play in the fight against climate change.(00:27:12) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X
In this episode of Talking New York Real Estate, Vince discusses selling townhouses and buildings in NYC, given the city's dynamic market and high stakes, and reviews the process, which often involves catering to a discerning clientele and highlighting a property's unique characteristics. Featuring guests Anna Shaglov, Bo Poulsen, Ante Jakic, and Jared Antin. Filmed at Brown Harris Stevens' Studio 1873, Part of the Mastery of Real Estate (MORE) Network. Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-new-york-real-estate-with-vince-rocco/id1645541166 Watch: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7_x00Dbn3OSlGbpYVDMcT_DI0gFW06hq Connect with Vince Rocco: https://www.bhsusa.com/real-estate-agent/vince-rocco Brown Harris Stevens is one of the largest privately owned real estate brokerages in the country, with more than 40 offices across four states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida. https://bhsusa.com/ #RealEstate #VinceRocco #NewYorkCity #TNYRE #NYC
Plant-based solutions for energy storage are gaining traction in the pursuit of greener technologies. Dr Jun Young Cheong from the University of Glasgow, UK, investigates the potential of using gum waste from a tropical tree to create a crucial component in lithium-ion batteries in search of a more sustainable future. Read the original research: doi.org/10.1016/j.jelechem.2024.118467
Michon Williams is my special guest in this episode, sharing her career journey, emphasizing an early interest in technology and explaining her role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Walmart Canada.Michon highlights the importance of balancing innovation and stability, operating on three horizons: stability, incremental improvements, and long-term disruptions. We discuss the need for local solutions in Canada due to unique market requirements, the rapid pace of innovation in retail, particularly post-pandemic, and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and customer experience. Michon advises retailers to foster a culture of experimentation and continuous learning and encourages women in tech to be curious and proactive in their career development. About MichonMichon was recruited to Walmart Canada as Vice President of Product & Delivery to steward their accelerated investment in technology in 2021. Promoted to Chief Technology Officer, Michon and her team are responsible for core systems strategy and delivery, technology infrastructure and operations, infosec and architecture across stores, pharmacies, supply chain, merchandising, core data platforms, associate tools and enterprise technology (including real estate). Michon is a long-time advocate of the environment and inclusion and leads programs in support of Green Technology and to promote and advance Diversity in Technology. About MichaelMichael is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. He has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Secure conference with leaders from The Gap and Kroger talking about violence in retail stores, keynotes on the state & future of retail in Orlando and Halifax, and at the 2023 Canadian GroceryConnex conference, hosting the CEOs of Walmart Canada, Longo's and Save-On-Foods Canada. Michael brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael also produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in North America, Remarkable Retail, Canada's top retail industry podcast; the Voice of Retail; Canada's top food industry and the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor, with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois. Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail influencers for the fourth year in a row, Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer, and you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state of the retail industry in Canada and the U.S., and the future of retail.
Discover How Recycled Materials Are Transforming Modern Architecture with David Hertz In this episode of Conscious Design, renowned architect David Hertz shows us how recycled materials are changing the way we build today. David talks about his journey from environmental activism in Malibu to his work with SkySource and XPRIZE. Learn how he uses materials like recycled concrete and airplane wings in innovative projects like the 747 Wing House and the Sail House. David explains how using green technologies and materials you might not expect can make architecture more sustainable. He also discusses the bigger picture, including the need for better environmental practices and the limits of current economic models. Watch to find out how David's ideas are helping create a greener future for building design. Notable moments: 0:53 - David Hertz's Background and Environmental Work 03:57 - Using Recycled Materials in Building Design 08:20- The 747 Wing House and Sail House 17:58 - Green Technologies and Local materials 23:34 - Challenges and Future of Green Architecture 48:30 - David Hertz's Resilience Foundation and Global projects About David Hertz David Hertz is an Architect, inventor, and educator. He is known for his work in sustainable architecture and as an early innovator in developing recycled building materials. David has been working at the edge of sustainability and the forefront of regenerative architecture for 40 years. As a systems thinker, he engages in various fields through design and believes in expanding the conceptual limits of architecture. David taught sustainable design and mentored students at his alma mater, SCI-Arc, as well as Art Center College of Design, Yale, and USC. In 2016, David founded Skysource to democratize water, and his efforts culminated in winning the Water Abundance XPRIZE in 2018 and the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum's National Design Award for Climate Action in 2022. Learn more about David Hertz and David Hertz Architects and Skysource https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hertz-faia https://www.facebook.com/davidhertzarchitects/ https://www.instagram.com/davidhertz_studioea/ https://davidhertzfaia.com We created this content so creative entrepreneurs like you can integrate social and environmental responsibility into your brand's DNA through Conscious Design. Ian Peterman, the leading expert in Conscious Design, hosts the Conscious Design podcast and is the co-author of the book Conscious Design.
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Gagan Dhillon, the CEO and co-founder of Synop. Gagan and his team are helping commercial fleets transition to electric vehicles, focusing particularly on school buses and drayage trucks. We delved into the challenges fleet managers face when shifting from diesel to electric, and how Synop's platform optimises vehicle charging to reduce costs and increase uptime.One of the standout discussions was around Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, especially how school buses, with their predictable routes and downtime, are ideal candidates for this emerging technology. Gagan also shared insights on the importance of global regions starting their infrastructure development with electric solutions, bypassing the need for traditional diesel.As always, the focus was on practical solutions that can drive real change. Whether you're involved in fleet management, policy-making, or just curious about the future of transport electrification, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the path ahead.Listen in to learn more about the critical role Synop is playing in accelerating the transition to a more sustainable transportation future.Support the Show.Podcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Devaang Bhatt Stephen Carroll Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
(0:50) - First healthcare device powered by body heat Become a founding reader of our newsletter: http://read.thenextbyte.com/ As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.
(2:48) - A recipe for zero-emissions fuel: Soda cans, seawater, and caffeineThis episode was brought to you by Mouser, our favorite place to get electronics parts for any project, whether it be a hobby at home or a prototype for work. Click HERE to learn more about how hydrogen fuel cell vehicles stack up against batteries and what the future of sustainable transportation looks like! Become a founding reader of our newsletter: http://read.thenextbyte.com/ As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.
What is the most sustainable and economic way to farm? Eddy Badrina of Eden Green Technology may have the answer to this million-dollar question… Eden Green Technology is a company that uses vertical farming technology to produce more food while simultaneously using less energy, space, and water. As the CEO of this innovation-driven company, Eddy is instrumental in bringing this technology to retailers, researchers, cities, and governments across the globe… Click play to explore: How to get more food production volume out of a building with a smaller footprint and less energy consumption. The economic challenges that exist for flat greenhouses. How to effectively control the climate of greenhouse spaces. Want to learn about innovative farming technology from an individual at the forefront of the industry? Tune in now to find out! To connect with Eddy and his work with Eden Green Technology, visit www.edengreen.com now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C
PREVIEW:#LITHIUM: Conversation with colleague Simon Constable in Occitanie re the plunge in lithium prices per ton and what it means for green technology. More tonight. 1885 OHIO
Send me a messageHi everyone, Tom Raftery here with another episode of the Climate Confident Podcast. This time, I'm joined by Lina Fedirko, Associate Director on the Road Transportation team at ClimateWorks Foundation. Lina dives deep into the complexities of decarbonising road transportation and highlights innovative urban mobility solutions, like congestion pricing and low emission zones, that cities are adopting globally.We also explore the critical role of responsible mineral supply chains in the energy transition. Lina explains how sustainable practices in mineral extraction and recycling are essential to support the growing demand for EVs and renewables. She shares fascinating insights on how policy, behaviour change, and strategic collaborations can drive a cleaner, greener future.Tune in to understand the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in creating a sustainable transportation system and the importance of a holistic approach to managing mineral resources. Whether you're a policy wonk, an EV enthusiast, or just curious about sustainable practices, this episode offers valuable takeaways for everyone.Support the Show.Podcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Hal Good Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Devaang Bhatt Stephen Carroll Marcel Roquette Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
Where did the concept of the circular economy come from? In our new season “Origins: The ideas shaping the circular economy”, we dig into the different ideas that have inspired the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's concept of a circular economy.In this season premier, we'll learn more about biomimicry, the practice of looking to nature for solutions to human problems. Join us as we discuss the origins and broader implications of biomimicry with Stefano Semprini, Co-director at Biomimicry, and delve into its practical applications with Chad Wasilenkoff, CEO of Helicoid Industries Inc.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review, or leave us a comment on Spotify or YouTube. Your support helps us to spread the word about the circular economy.
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I'm joined by Brian Sheng, CEO and co-founder of Aquaria, to explore a potential solution to water scarcity. Brian shares how Aquaria is tackling one of the most pressing challenges of our time by harvesting water from the air. We delve into the technology behind atmospheric water generators, which create clean water through condensation, akin to the droplets on a cold beer glass on a hot day.We discuss the practical applications of these generators, from individual homes to entire communities, and the potential for scaling up to cities. Brian highlights their initial projects in Texas and Hawaii, where homes are now fully powered by solar energy and generate water from the atmosphere. We also touch on the energy efficiency of these units and their integration with solar power to ensure a sustainable supply.A significant takeaway is the importance of water security and how Aquaria's technology can offer a fast, cost-effective alternative to traditional infrastructure. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative solutions to climate change and water sustainability.Tune in to learn more about how Aquaria is making water scarcity a thing of the past.Support the Show.Podcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's amazing supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Hal Good Jerry Sweeney Andreas Werner Devaang Bhatt Stephen Carroll Marcel Roquette Roger Arnold 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 Climate Confident episodes like this one.ContactIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - get in touch via direct message on Twitter/LinkedIn. 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 the show. CreditsMusic credits - Intro by Joseph McDade, and Outro music for this podcast was composed, played, and produced by my daughter Luna Juniper
#gme $GME #gamestop #chatgpt #chatgpt4 #ai #artificialintelligence #medicine #doctors #schumer #chuckschumer 03:35 GameStop Shareholder Meeting Insights 15:54 Chuck Schumer's Grilling Fiasco 20:07 AI and Future Technologies 29:38 AI in Medicine: The Future of Healthcare 34:20 AI in Medicine: The Future of Diagnosis 34:59 The Rise of Chatbots in Professional Fields 36:50 Tech News Highlights: Starlink and Beyond 37:52 Emerging Technology Trends for 2024 40:09 Personalized Medicine and Smart Toilets 41:44 Neuromorphic Computing and AI Learning 43:38 Green Technologies and Wearable Health Monitors 46:11 The Power of Dancing: Beating Depression 01:03:14 Crypto News: SEC Shakeup and ETF Approvals 01:06:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Streams FOLLOW ME: Instagram: @theDonShahan https://www.instagram.com/thedonshahan/ X/Twitter: @theDonShahan https://x.com/TheDonShahan TikTok: @theDonShahan https://www.tiktok.com/@thedonshahan
Leaders Of Transformation | Leadership Development | Conscious Business | Global Transformation
How do we produce a better cotton fabric without all the heavy chemicals? In this enlightening episode, we dive into the groundbreaking innovations in the textile industry with Graham Stewart, an international textile and apparel production specialist. As someone passionate about sustainable practices, Graham patented a revolutionary process to bleach and dye cotton using natural products instead of heavy chemicals. His approach not only reduces energy and water use but also provides a higher quality product that is kinder to the environment. Join host Nicole Jansen as she explores Graham's journey from development to market implementation and his vision for a cleaner, more sustainable textile industry. What We Discuss in this Episode How did Graham Stewart come up with the idea for a more sustainable cotton processing method? What is Fiber52, and how does it differ from traditional cotton processing techniques? The significant improvements in the textile industry's sustainability practices. Challenges faced in bringing a new sustainable product to market. Exploring the potential of scaling and seeing beyond the initial idea. The role of patents in protecting chemical processes and the importance of good partners. How the improved process benefits not just the environment but also reduces costs. The future vision of integrating more bioproducts and natural dyes. How collaborations can drive advancements in sustainable textiles. Graham's advice for entrepreneurs and inventors on finding good partners and sticking to their mission. Podcast Highlights 0:00 - How Graham Stewart started his journey in sustainable textile innovation. 3:57 - The outdated practices in textile processing that inspired change. 6:32 - How the Fibre52 process impacts the quality and sustainability of finished products. 10:57 - Challenges in convincing manufacturers to adopt new methods. 14:44 - The distinction between inventing and running a business. 17:56 - The importance of finding good collaborators. 21:08 - Managing growth and responding to increased demand. 23:51 - Graham's legacy and vision for the future. 26:22 – Finding the right partners for your venture. Favorite Quotes Innovation in Textiles: “Instead of using heavy chemicals, we use catalysts and bio-based products that are adapted from the food industry to process cotton more sustainably." Sustainability and Quality: “We actually leave cotton in its natural state. Instead of degrading it with heavy alkali, we maintain its softness and strength." Scaling Sustainably: “Finding good partners and having great suppliers has been crucial in scaling our operations globally while maintaining our sustainability goals." For an insightful conversation with Graham Stewart that covers revolutionary technologies, sustainable practices, and future possibilities in the textile industry, tune into this episode of Leaders of Transformation! Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/499-revolutionizing-cotton-production-sustainable-solutions-with-graham-stewart Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________
Send me a messageIn today's episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I chat with Camille Manso, a partner at Silicon Foundry. We dive into their work in assisting large corporations to work with startups to tackle significant issues, particularly focused on sustainability. Camille sheds light on the importance of sustainability driven by evolving consumer preferences, investor expectations, and regulatory demands. We explore the myriad challenges in corporate-startup collaborations, the pivotal role of AI and big data in advancing sustainability initiatives, and some success stories within supply chain sustainability projects. We also touch upon the difficulties in scaling pilot projects and the crucial role of data in fostering successful corporate-startup partnerships. Here is the article published by Camille in Supply Chain Technology News which she referred to. 00:00 Introduction01:31 Upcoming Episodes and Special Guest Introduction02:01 Camille Manso's Background and Role03:55 Corporate Innovation and Startup Collaboration05:58 Sustainability Trends and Challenges12:52 Success Stories and Technological Advancements18:33 AI, Big Data, and IoT in Supply Chains23:08 Scaling Innovations in Large Corporations28:16 Final Thoughts and Contact InfoElevate 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 Show.Podcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag 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.
Ever wondered how green technology can revolutionize the HVAC industry? Join us on the Successful Life Podcast as we chat with Jonathan Neves, founder of Green Energy Mechanical, about his transformative journey from a teen in the trades to a pioneering business owner in Boston. Discover how Jonathan's passion for energy-efficient solutions has not only set his company apart as an industry leader but also empowered him to mentor his team and others, sharing the crucial skills of listening and emotional intelligence in sales.Communication is key in HVAC, and Jonathan's insights are invaluable. We'll uncover the role of salespeople as consultants, delving into the importance of proper equipment sizing and tackling outdated electrical infrastructures. This episode also shines a spotlight on workforce development initiatives aimed at underprivileged and minority communities, illustrating how HVAC careers can be life-changing, especially for those from challenging backgrounds. Through personal stories, we see how mastering communication can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be, both financially and professionally.Finally, we break down effective sales techniques and strategies, drawing inspiration from Chris Voss's "Never Split the Difference." Learn the art of asking probing questions to uncover customer motivations and objections and the importance of being fully present during interactions. We'll explore real-life scenarios demonstrating how to handle price objections and emphasize the power of positive reviews and reputation. Jonathan's dedication to ethical sales and leadership, combined with the value of transparency and trust, rounds out this enriching episode. Don't miss out on these valuable insights that can elevate your HVAC business to new heights!https://www.facebook.com/share/n5ZnRvAoxhyi1Ucy/?mibextid=LQQJ4dhttps://www.facebook.com/share/uv4sS217M2UK6vES/?mibextid=LQQJ4d https://www.housecallpro.com/successfullife Support the Show. https://www.audible.com/pd/9-Simple-Steps-to-Sell-More-ht-Audiobook/B0D4SJYD4Q?source_code=ASSORAP0511160006&share_location=library_overflowhttps://www.amazon.com/Simple-Steps-Sell-More-Stereotypes-ebook/dp/B0BRNSFYG6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1OSB7HX6FQMHS&keywords=corey+berrier&qid=1674232549&sprefix=%2Caps%2C93&sr=8-1https://bit.ly/4bFz4yc https://www.housecallpro.com/successullifehttps://www.facebook.com/corey.berrier https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreysalescoach/
In the United States, 90% of the lettuce is produced and shipped from California to the rest of the country. When we combine the impact of this long journey on the environment, cost and 30% loss in farm produce - makes vertical farms close to consumption a viable alternative. In this episode, we learn from Eddy Badrina, CEO of Eden Green Technology about Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) where plants are grown hydroponically, in greenhouses, and by using all kinds of methodologies to control the growing environment. Eden Green Technology has successfully grown 100 different types of produce in a vertical farm using hydroponics - in a greenhouse. They rely on sunlight that comes through the greenhouse panes as against other vertical farms that need to be artificially lit with LED or other types of light fixtures. This fascinating technology seeks to revolutionize the grocery retail industry by growing what the stores need nearby, thus reducing costs, waste and at the same time delivering fresh produce to the consumer at a reasonable price. By designing sustainable and scalable vertical greenhouse technology, deployable almost anywhere in the world, their vertical farming technology is helping the world sustainably grow large amounts of food to create a healthier and happier existence for all.https://www.edengreen.com/https://mindfulbusinessespodcast.com/all-episodes/
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I'm joined by Amir Haramaty, CEO of aiOla, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping business processes with high accuracy in speech recognition. Amir delves into the core functions of aiOla—a tool designed to bridge the gap between human speech and actionable data, thereby streamlining operations across industries.Amir outlines how aiOla not only captures spoken language but converts it into structured, usable data that integrates seamlessly with existing ERP and CRM systems. This transformation is particularly crucial in sectors where precision and speed are paramount, such as logistics, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. By enhancing data capture, aiOla facilitates more informed decision-making and operational efficiency.A key focus of our discussion centres on sustainability—how aiOla's technology minimises waste and optimises resource use by eliminating paper processes and improving data accuracy. These enhancements have tangible impacts on the bottom line and environmental sustainability.Tune in to hear how Amir's technology is making significant strides in making business processes smarter, safer, and more sustainable. Whether it's improving pre-op inspections in food processing or ensuring compliance in pharmaceuticals, aiOla is setting a new standard for integrating AI into daily operations.Join us to discover how integrating AI into your supply chain can lead to substantial efficiency gains and a more sustainable future.Don't forget to check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/MQtz0fP3ytkElevate 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 Show.Podcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Luis Olavarria Alvaro Aguilar 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 Digital Supply Chain 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 Twitter/LinkedIn. 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.
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Hosts Will Larry and Victoria Guido chat with Sanghmitra Bhardwaj, CEO and Founder of Insusty. Sanghmitra shares her journey from a small village in the foothills of the Himalayas to becoming a founder in France, driven by firsthand experiences with climate disasters and a passion for sustainable living. Insusty, a sustainability loyalty program, is a platform incentivizing individuals to adopt climate-positive actions through rewards, thereby fostering a community motivated towards environmental stewardship. The show digs into the mechanics and vision of Insusty, highlighting how the platform rewards eco-friendly actions like volunteering and donating, rather than purchases. This approach aims to bridge the gap between the desire for sustainable living and the practical challenges individuals face, such as the perceived high costs of sustainable products. Sanghmitra reveals the evolution of Insusty, including strategic pivots towards niche markets within the circular economy and the importance of transparency and impact measurement in building trust with consumers. Towards the episode's conclusion, the conversation shifts to broader implications of sustainability in technology and business. Sanghmitra expresses curiosity about future expansions of Insusty, particularly in tracking and rewarding individual daily eco-actions more effectively. She also touches upon the challenges and triumphs of being a solo female founder in the tech and sustainability sectors, underscoring the significance of community, perseverance, and innovation in driving change. Insusty (https://www.insusty.info/) Follow Insusty on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/insusty/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theinsusty/), or X (https://twitter.com/the_insusty). Follow Sanghmitra Bhardwaj on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanghmitra-bhardwaj-515428236/) or X (https://twitter.com/sustainwithsan). Follow thoughtbot on X (https://twitter.com/thoughtbot) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/150727/). Become a Sponsor (https://thoughtbot.com/sponsorship) of Giant Robots! Transcript: WILL: This is the Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots podcast, where we explore the design, development, and business of great products. I'm your host, Will Larry. VICTORIA: And I'm your other host, Victoria Guido. With me today is Sanghmitra Bhardwaj, CEO and Founder of Insusty, a sustainability loyalty program for individuals. Sanghmitra, thank you for joining us. SANGHMITRA: Thank you so much for having me here. I'm super excited for the podcast and to discuss various topics that we are about to. And I'm sure that it's going to be a learning experience, not just for the audience, but also for me. So, thank you for this opportunity. VICTORIA: Why don't we just start off getting to know you a little bit? Tell us something exciting going on in your life, maybe outside of work. SANGHMITRA: Okay, so, well, recently, I joined a pole dancing class. I wanted to challenge myself and see if I have the core strength that I need to be strong. And I also feel that it's something that I always wanted to do to come out of my comfort zone. So, it's been fun so far. VICTORIA: I tried that, and I thought that I would naturally be good at it because I'm a rock climber. And so, I thought I'd have all the right muscle groups, but the coordination and [laughs], like, expression of it is still challenging if you've never done it before. SANGHMITRA: Yeah, definitely. And I think there are some techniques and if you don't do it right, like, you will not get it at all, those poses and, like, how you climb the pole and everything. So, I completely relate to your experience here. VICTORIA: I want to do more dance, actually, because the mind-body connection and getting into that feeling of flow is really interesting for me. And I think it's like expressing through your body, which 80% of communication is non-verbal, which is really interesting. SANGHMITRA: Yeah, that's true. Just to add to it, I wanted to also share with you that I used to do modeling back in India, and I really love expressing myself with my body. And it's been super interesting to see that. And also, when I have conversations with other people, these are the things that I observe a lot. Is it the same for you? Do you also observe other people's body language when they are talking to you and probably change some topics that you are trying to discuss? VICTORIA: Yeah, absolutely. You can tell if people are listening to what you're saying. They, like, lean in a little bit, or if they're not really wanting to relate to what you're saying, they're, like, crossing their arms in front of you. So, as someone who works in business development, I definitely pay a lot of attention [laughs] to all that stuff. But I'm curious, how did you go from being a model in India to founder and CEO where you are today? SANGHMITRA: That's something that I would love to talk about, and also, it has to do from where I come from. So, I come from a very small village in the foothills of the Himalayas. There, I witnessed climate disasters firsthand. In 2013, there were a lot of cloudbursts happening in those areas. An entire village next to my village disappeared completely without a trace. And those were some moments in my life where I really felt like we live in a world where you can be far from Europe...for example, currently, I live in France, and here, when heat wave happens, we all suffer and people talk about it. But I have seen, like, the adverse effect of what it can lead to. So, there was a part of me that always wanted to do something in terms of the impact that I create, like, with my work. So, I started doing modeling, which was something for myself as well to gain some confidence. At the same time, I worked with sustainable brands in India. I modeled for them, and then I discovered their work. I got inspired by it, and I realized that it's something that interests me a lot, and I wanted to pursue my studies in it to know more about it. So, that's when I came to France to pursue my master's in sustainable finance to discover more about this field and to see where I belong. And finally, I founded Insusty, where I could see that I could bring my inspiration from the sustainable brands that I worked with. Whether it's from the fashion or, the food industry, or the travel industry, I could see the inspiration coming from there. At the same time, I could see how we need to create mass adoption through incentivizing climate action, which was something that I explored during my studies. And I kind of went with Insusty, and that was the beginning of my founder journey. WILL: I have a question about the way you grew up, and you're saying in a village. Can you expound a little bit on that? Because you said, climate change wiped out an entire village. And so, when I saw that in the email, I was like, I don't think I've ever had a chance to actually talk to someone that lived in a village. I grew up in the United States. So, like, help paint that picture. When you say you grew up in a village, what do you mean by that? What was it like growing up in a village, and also, what do you mean by the next village got entirely wiped out? SANGHMITRA: Yeah. Living in a village it's like being a part of a tiny, well-knitted community, and it's, like, everyone knows everyone. And sometimes it's good, sometimes it's bad because when people gossip, of course, it spreads like a wildfire. As well as when you need support and when you need help, this community is always there, too. So, the part of belonging to such a community and to kind of engage with people is something that I really enjoy about coming from a small village. And that's something that I oftentimes search in France, where I can be a part of such communities as well, where people inspire each other. For example, currently, I'm a part of a wonderful community of women of color founders living in Europe. It's called Founderland. And it's thanks to Founderland that I found you then I could join this podcast. So, when it comes to the small village, this is what I really really love about it is the small knitted community we have. When I say that the entire village next to my village disappeared, I mean that when there was the cloudburst in the mountain, the soil and everything drowned the entire village. So, there was a school, and we used to hear a story about the school, where the kids were told by the teachers to run because there is a cloudburst, and "We are about to die if we stay in this place." And as a student, as a kid, what do you think first? You think about packing your bags instead of running. So, the kids ended up packing their bags before they could run, and by that time, it was too late. So, this is just one of the heartbreaking stories that I'm sharing with you right now, but it had been something that really left a mark in my life. VICTORIA: I really appreciate you sharing that story because when I talk to people about climate change, I think it's really easy to get this nihilistic attitude about, well, climate change is going to kill us all in 20 years. So, why bother doing anything about it? And what I usually answer back is that climate change is already killing people. And then, it's happening in your own neighborhood, even, like, you know, I live here in San Diego, and it's always between, like, 60 and 80 degrees every single day [chuckles], but our beaches are collapsing. There are neighborhoods that are more impacted by pollution than others and are experiencing environmental impacts from that and their health, and everything like that. So, I'm curious how it all comes together with what you're doing with Insusty and how you're inspiring people to take action towards sustainability in the here and now. SANGHMITRA: Actually, I have a question for you and Will. I wanted to understand, for example, if you purchase something in terms of, for example, it's related to fashion, or it's related to food products, what is the criteria that's most important to you? And maybe probably you can tell me, like, the top three criteria that are most important for you when you buy something. And then, I would love to share how Insusty can help you buy better. VICTORIA: When I'm looking to buy things, I look for, like, price. I want it to be reasonable, but I also don't want it to be so cheap that it means it's a really poor quality. So, I want to find that balance between, like, quality and price. And I do also care about sustainability, and, like, what is the background of the company that I'm buying it from? You know, what's their reputation? What's their, like, practices? Like one example is, like, the rugs for your house. So, I like to buy rugs that are made from sustainable fabrics and dyes and that I can wash them because I have a dog. And so, that's kind of, like, what I think through when I buy things. But it's not always easy, especially with clothing, because it seems like anyone who makes clothing, there's just always this risk of it being sourced at some part in the manufacturing pipeline having to do with either child labor or really terrible sustainability practices. WILL: Yeah. I would say, for me, early on, especially when I was growing up, we didn't have a lot of money, so it was just whatever is the cheapest, whatever we could afford at that moment. It wasn't really looking into the quality, or sustainability, or any of those items. Some of the stuff I look back on that I ate often, I'm like, whoa, man, that was not the best thing. But it was the cheapest, and it was what we ate and things like that. So, now that I'm older, my wife has been talking to me about some of that stuff, and it's like, oh, I had no idea, because of the environment I grew up in, that, like, that's even affecting me. And that was kind of why I asked you about the village thing is because I feel like we can get in a bubble sometimes and not even be aware of what's happening to other people. And I think, Victoria, you said something about people not understanding climate change. It's kind of tough at times to talk about climate change when you live in...where I'm at in Florida, it's like, okay, it gets hot, and then it gets cold. And yeah, we have a hurricane every now and then, but whenever you told the story about the village, it's like, oh, wow, like, that's a different game. That's a different level. I didn't even know about that. So, I think that's kind of my journey now is I am starting to understand sustainability. I think a lot of times I still have that I grew up with nothing mindset and want to get the cheapest thing because sometimes buying sustainability is super expensive. So, that's why I'm glad that I'm talking to you, so maybe I can learn some of those things. So yeah, that's kind of been my journey with it. SANGHMITRA: That's really wonderful to get your insights because now I can tell you confidently what we do. Basically, when I talk to people, it was generally the same thing that I asked them, "What's the most important thing when you buy, like, the top three most important things?" Sustainability was definitely one of them, but cost was always there. Regardless of the background that they are from, cost was something that they all thought about. So, what we do at Insusty is that we incentivize individuals to do something good for the planet. It can be, for example, you want to volunteer at an NGO next to your place. You want to get rewarded. So, what we do is we offer you loyalty points that help you to buy from sustainable brands. So, you try these products because, oftentimes, as Will also mentioned, there is a perception, and it's also a reality, that sustainable products tend to be more expensive. So, we try to deal with that by offering a loyalty program that incentivizes climate action. And in terms of the sustainable brands, they get new customer base. They get to interact with these customers. They get to see their product and sites. What is something that the customers really like? What is something that can be improved? How can they improve in terms of their own sustainability and their impact? For example, their supply chain operations and so on. So, it's something that we provide them and help them also with insights as well as new customer base. We try to support them with that. At the same time, on an individual level, we help with the cost factor, which is one of the most important things. When we want people to change, when we want people to adopt sustainable lifestyle, we kind of need to incentivize that so that mass adoption can be possible. VICTORIA: So, I'm imagining, like, I want to know a new brand that I want to buy clothes from, like essential clothes. I could go into the app and, like, find companies that produce the thing that I want, and then I could get points and rewards for buying consistently from that brand. SANGHMITRA: So, we are not like an actual loyalty program. So, you only receive points when you do something good for the planet. You don't receive points when you purchase from brands. This is a loyalty program where we give you points when you do something good for the planet, for example, donations. For NGOs, we have volunteer programs that individuals can participate in and receive loyalty points. But in the future, we are ambitious, and we want to go far. And we think that each and every activity of an individual can be tracked in terms of sustainability, how they are segregating their waste at home, how they're managing that, and so on, and give them points for each of their eco actions. VICTORIA: Awesome. Yeah. Okay. I love that. Yeah. So, what kind of things would earn me points, like, in my home ownership here? SANGHMITRA: If you volunteer with an NGO nearby or if you would like to participate in an event, for example, if you want to donate clothes, all these eco actions can give you loyalty points for the moment. And in the future, we want to also track the actions that you do at home. You save electricity, for example. You want to walk to the office instead of taking a cab, and all these activities, so that we can kind of make the experience also for the user a bit more like a game so that they enjoy doing it at the same time they receive rewards. And they can make purchases as well with the sustainable brands on our platform. VICTORIA: I like that because I've been talking with my partner about how do we live more sustainably, or how do we, like, reduce our consumption or give back. And I think if it was gamified and we got points for it, it's more motivating because then you also see that other people are doing it as well. And so, you're part of a community that's all trying to take the same action. And that will have a bigger impact than just one individual, right? SANGHMITRA: Yes, definitely. And we do have that feature on our platform where you could see near your area who donated and who is working in a particular NGO, so based on the fact that if the individual is comfortable in sharing that. Most of the time, when someone does something good for the planet, they would love to show it to the rest of the world. So, we have seen that people love to share their experiences and their badges, saying that, okay, they donated, for example, five euros to this NGO, and so on. So, they really love that. And it feels also really good to see this community and to get inspired by it. Mid-Roll Ad: When starting a new project, we understand that you want to make the right choices in technology, features, and investment but that you don't have all year to do extended research. In just a few weeks, thoughtbot's Discovery Sprints deliver a user-centered product journey, a clickable prototype or Proof of Concept, and key market insights from focused user research. We'll help you to identify the primary user flow, decide which framework should be used to bring it to life, and set a firm estimate on future development efforts. Maximize impact and minimize risk with a validated roadmap for your new product. Get started at: tbot.io/sprint. WILL: I think it's going to take all of us doing something to help with climate change and to make a difference. So, I like how you're incentivizing. You're making a difference. You say you get reward points. So, once I do an item or an action and I get reward points, what does that look like on the backend of it? SANGHMITRA: For the individuals they have a dashboard to track their actions. They have a dashboard to also track what they are purchasing. So, if they're purchasing food or they're purchasing more items related to fashion, they can also check that. They can check the total number of points that they have received so far, where they have used it, and so on. And at the backend, for us, we see it as the total number of transactions that are taking place, so, for example, how the loyalty point is being used. So, we have APIs that are in place between our platform and the platforms of other sustainable brands in our network. So, in our backend, we can see the transactions; for example, an individual used 100 points to get 10% off from one of the sustainable brands on our platform. And in terms of the sustainable brand side, even they have their own dashboard. They can also track how many individuals are using their points on their platform, and so on. So, they also have access to their own analytics dashboard. And through the same application, they can also provide us the payments through subscription and transaction fees. VICTORIA: Yeah, that's really interesting. And so, I understand that you've been in the journey for a little while now. And I'm curious: if you go back to when you first got started, what was surprising to you in the discovery phase and maybe caused you to pivot and change strategy? SANGHMITRA: So, one thing that I pivoted with was the type of brands that we wanted to onboard. Before, we had a very open approach; for example, we want brands that are sustainable, or if they are upcycling, or if they have, like, a particular social impact attached to it or an environmental impact attached to it. So, we were focusing on having the horizons a bit like the aspects of choosing a sustainable brand to be a partner. It was a bit broader for us. But when we talked with the people, they wanted a niche. For example, they wanted upcycle products. They wanted more brands in the circular economy domain. And that's when we realized that we need to have a niche. So, we focus on the brands that are more linked towards circular economy that are promoting the values of recycling, upcycling, and reusing the products. So, that was when we pivoted with the idea that we should not be open to all sustainable brands. However, we need to be really accurate with our approach. We need to focus on a particular niche. At the same time, we need to also make sure that we measure their impact and report it to our customers to ensure transparency on our platform. So, that became a priority more than having more and more brands on our platform. WILL: Yeah, I really...that was actually one of my questions I was going to ask you because I like how you are vetting them because I've, especially here in the States, I've seen, like, companies, like, slap 'non-GMO' or 'gluten-free.' And it's like, well, it doesn't even have wheat in it, so, like, yeah, it's gluten-free. So, it's like, it's more of a marketing thing than actually, like, helping out. So, I'm glad you're vetting that. How has that process going for you? SANGHMITRA: It's actually going really well, and we have established a five-step onboarding process. And in the first two steps, we also focus on measuring their impact. We have a self-evaluation form. We also check if they have some existing certificates. We also make sure that we have enough data about their supply chain and how they are working. And these are some of the information that we also share with our consumers, the one who would be interested to buy products from these brands, to make sure that we are transparent in our approach. There's also one more thing that we do. It's the quarterly reporting. So, every three months, we also report the individuals who are buying from sustainable brands on our platform that, okay, this brand did better this quarter because they implemented a process that, for example, is reducing a certain amount of emissions from their supply chain, or any other departments. So, these are some of the information that we also share with the individuals. VICTORIA: And what does success look like now versus six months from now or five years from now? SANGHMITRA: For the moment, success would look like for me to have more connections, more people who support our project and our initiative, and the more people joining us. In terms of the next six months, I think it would be linked to fundraising. But I wouldn't go so far at the moment because, for me, I take one day at a time. And this is something that has been super helpful for me to streamline my tasks. So, I take one day at a time, and it's working really well for me. WILL: What are some of your upcoming hurdles that you see? SANGHMITRA: When I talk about hurdles, I often see it in two parts, one being the internal hurdles and the other one being external. So, in terms of the internal hurdles, it can be something like I'm putting myself in a box that, okay, I'm a single woman founder. How can I do something good? And just doubting myself and things like that. These are some of the internal hurdles that I'm working on every day [chuckles]. I'm also talking to executive coaches to get their advice on how I can improve myself as well to overcome these internal hurdles. However, in terms of the external hurdles, these are some things that are not in my control, but I try my best to make the most of it. Currently, in terms of the external hurdles, I would say that I live in a country where I used to not even speak the language. So, initially, the hurdle that I experienced was mostly the cultural hurdle. But now it's more related to the fact that I am a single female founder, and there are perceptions around it that you need to have a co-founder. And there are a lot of different noises everywhere that doesn't allow you to grow. VICTORIA: And you're not just a founder, but you're also an author. And I wanted to ask you a little bit about your book, the Sustainability Pendulum. Can you share a little bit about what it is and why you wrote it? SANGHMITRA: So, Sustainability Pendulum is the book that I wrote last year, and I always wanted to write it. And last year, I put myself to work, and I was like, at least every day, I'm going to try and write one page, and probably by the end of the year, I can finish the book [chuckles], and that's what I did. I had to be super consistent. But I came up with Sustainability Pendulum, and it's about the stories from the past and the sustainable approaches that we had in the past, how we used to...in different religions, we have some stories written in the scriptures related to sustainable practices. And oftentimes, when we talk about sustainability today, we talk about the future. We talk about implementing different technologies and, doing a lot of innovations, and so on. However, we don't look into the past and see how efficiently things were handled when it came to sustainability in the past. And these are some of the stories from the past, from different religions, and how it transcends to today's sustainability issues and solutions. So, that's what the book is about. And why it's called the pendulum, it's because how the pendulum moves. I think it's obvious [laughs], so the pendulum's to and fro motion. It goes to the past, and it goes to the future. So, that was the whole concept behind the sustainability pendulum. WILL: That's amazing that you wrote a book, much, much respect on that. I am not an author, so...And I also know because my wife she's been talking about writing a book and the different challenges with that. So, kudos on writing a book. Would you write another one? SANGHMITRA: Actually, I would love to. I'm just looking for something that equally inspires me how it did for the last one. But I think once you come out of that space and you're consistent with writing the book or consistently working to achieve something, I think eventually it comes to you. So, I don't know what are the challenges that your wife mentions that she faced in writing the book. WILL: Like, having enough to write about, like you said, just sitting down each day writing a book. And I think publishing a book is tough. I know we've come a long ways, like, you can self-publish now instead of going through publishing companies, and just those different avenues of how many steps it takes. It's not just writing a book, sitting down and writing a book, and sharing with everyone. It's multiple steps that you have to go through. SANGHMITRA: Definitely. I couldn't agree more with you on this one. Just to add to it, how I managed to do this was also because I structured the book earlier. And in order to also publish it, I realized that I don't want to wait. And I self-published the book as soon as I found out that, okay, this is perfect, and it's ready. I need to just move forward with it. What helped me as well was the way I structured the book earlier. And then, I was like, okay, every day, this is what I'm going to work on. And it kind of helped me to get to the end of it. WILL: That's awesome. I like how you had forethought and how it made it easier for you to come up with ideas and write it. So, that's awesome. SANGHMITRA: I wish the best to your wife as well for her book. And I hope that once it's ready, you will let me know about it. WILL: Yes, I definitely will. You're talking about being a woman founder who is single. I don't want to assume. So, why is it tough for you to be a woman founder who's single? SANGHMITRA: When I say single female founder, it means that I don't have a co-founder. It's not, like, my relationship status but just [laughs] the fact that... WILL: Yes. Yes. [laughter] SANGHMITRA: Just that I am a single founder, like, then I don't have a co-founder, which oftentimes poses as a risk, especially when you talk to an investor. This is what I feel based on my experience. But I think the times are changing, and I feel that the more the project is growing, the better it is getting in terms of the people who are interested as well to be a part of Insusty as an investor or as a partner. Things have become better now than they were a few years ago. So, I can see the change. But, initially, I did used to feel low about it that, okay, I'm a single female founder, and oftentimes, it was considered as a challenge. But if you take my perspective, I think, for me personally, it possibly was also one of my biggest strengths because I could be that one person going to the meetings, and I felt that people were more open to share things. They did not feel threatened by me. And that was something that really helped me to also form connections with people. VICTORIA: I love how you connect having a small community in your village where you grew up to creating a community around yourself as a founder and having a village that supports you, and you feel comfortable around the community as well, and as part of that community. If you could go back in time and give yourself some advice when you were first getting started with Insusty, what advice would you give yourself? SANGHMITRA: Slow is good. When I say that, I mean that every time we talk about different startups and different companies, and it's always about how rapidly the startup is growing, how exponentially they are growing, and so on. But I feel that in terms of when you really want to create an impact, and you are in the green tech space as well, being slow and getting somewhere is better than going fast and then having a burnout. So, one of the things that I would tell myself when I just started would be slow is good. WILL: Even with coding and a lot of things in life, I feel like that's really good advice: slow is good. Slow down––enjoy the moment. So, I like that advice. VICTORIA: I was going to say, it sounds like a more sustainable pace for yourself also [laughs]. SANGHMITRA: Exactly. VICTORIA: Sustainability in the environment, and also in our own energy, and emotions, and motivation to get things done. So, I love that. WILL: I see what you did there [laughter]. VICTORIA: Yeah, [inaudible 30:40] all back. Do you have anything else that you'd like to promote? SANGHMITRA: I would really love to also tell people that I'm very open to communication. So, if anyone would like to reach out to me on LinkedIn, it would be really awesome, and we can get on a call as well. I have my Calendly link right on my profile, and I'm very open to communication. So, if there is someone who would like to talk to me about any of the things that interest them or probably something that they could advise me or I could learn from them, I'm more than open to do so. VICTORIA: Love that. And then, do you have any questions for me or Will? SANGHMITRA: So, in terms of the development part, I do have some questions, like, in the technical side. So, when it comes to the fact that we have to kind of calculate the eco actions of individuals in the future, we want to also see if we can calculate the daily actions that they do, for example, walking instead of taking a cab, or segregating their waste, et cetera. I wanted to know, in the future, I want to implement these features, but can we actually get a perfect product around it? Is that possible where we can track everything? WILL: Yeah. So, when you say track everything, like, I know you talked about walking and some of the different actions. Can you expound on that? SANGHMITRA: For example, instead of IoTs...because I know that some hotels they do use IoT devices to track the water consumption, and so on. However, on an individual level, how can we just track it through the smartphone or through the app that they have? Because, okay, walking can be tracked. This is actually one of the challenges I'm facing, so I want to just be open about it, and I'm very open to ideas also. If you have some ideas that I could experiment around, I would really love to. In terms of the activities like walking, waste disposal, and so on, do you think that there are some kind of features that we could implement to track these actions? One of the things that I was thinking about was we let people take a photo of how they are segregating the waste in the end, and through that, we can tell them, "Okay, this is great," and we give them the points. But how can we do it and also automate it at the same time? VICTORIA: So, one approach that I know when people work at thoughtbot on these types of issues and trying to figure out, like, what is the right feature? How are we going to implement this? Going through a product design sprint where you spend a week with a product designer and someone who can, you know, really quickly create MVPs. And you go through this process of figuring out what's the most important feature. And you're talking to users, and you're trying to...you're going through that discovery process in a short period. And we actually have a video series where we walk through every step of that process. But, like, for me personally, things that I can think of in my life that I would want to track one thing I've been trying to do more is actually electronic recycling, which in the U.S. my neighborhood is different. It's only open on, like, Thursdays and Saturdays. And I have to, like, really remember to go out there and, like, put my electronics out there. And I don't think it's very, like, well-known. So, I think that would be something interesting to, like, promote as possible. And we also have the green bins now, which are new, which allow you in California to, like, have composting. So, you have now your regular trash, your recycling, and your compost bins. So, actually, like, trying to use those and track them. Otherwise, one of the things I think about is, like, reducing the amount of plastic consumption, which includes things like, you know, when you buy toilet paper, it comes wrapped in plastic. How can I incentivize myself and my partner and even my family to, like, switch away from those types of products and get more into, you know, using towels instead of paper towels or finding alternative methods for getting those products while reducing the amount of plastic that comes with it? SANGHMITRA: That's super interesting. I'm really, really glad to have your insights as well. I do have a question for you. Have you worked with startups in the field of impact? And if so, what have been some of the ideas that you really loved to implement? VICTORIA: Yeah, actually, we had another guest on the Giant Robots podcast who I think you're connected with as well who created essentially, like, a GoFundMe but for environmental projects and in areas that, you know, a 5,000 grant to help do a beach cleanup could have a really big impact. Like funding programs and marketplace for those types of green projects in areas that are the most impacted by climate change and have the fewest resources to actually do anything about it. So, I thought that was really exciting in trying to figure out how can we use tech to solve problems for real people, and for people that don't typically get the focus or the majority of the funding, or the majority of time spent in those communities. So, that, I think, is what is really exciting: to see people come from those communities and then figure out how to build solutions to serve them. SANGHMITRA: That's really wonderful. Is there, like, a specific market where you have seen growth of such startups and companies more? The companies especially you have worked with in the past and in there in the field of impact, are they mostly from the U.S., or which are the markets they are from essentially? VICTORIA: Yeah. So, I mean, I'm from the U.S., so that's where I see the most. I'm in San Diego. So, when I go to, like, startup weeks and things like that, that's where I'm getting the majority of my exposure. I do also know that there is a Bloomberg Center focusing on excellence and data in the governments. And that's not just U.S.-based but going more global as well, so trying to teach civic leaders how they can use the data about whether it's sustainability or other issues that they're facing too, like, figure out how to prioritize their funding and in what projects they're going to invest in from there. So, I think that's really interesting. I don't know, I don't know what the answer is, but I know that there are some countries that are hoping to make the investments in sustainability and ecotourism, as opposed to allowing industry to come in and do whatever they want [laughs]. So, I don't know if that answers your question or not. SANGHMITRA: Yeah, I think it completely answers my question. Thank you for sharing that and also a bit more. WILL: There's so many things that I've learned through the podcast. So, I'm excited to see the impact it has. And I think you're doing an amazing job. VICTORIA: Thank you so much for coming on and being with us here today and sharing your story. SANGHMITRA: Thank you. WILL: You can subscribe to the show and find notes along with a complete transcript for this episode at giantrobots.fm. If you have questions or comments, email us at hosts@ giantrobots.fm. And you can find me on Twitter @will23larry. VICTORIA: And you can find me on Mastodon @thoughtbot.social@vguido. This podcast is brought to you by thoughtbot and produced and edited by Mandy Moore. Thanks for listening. See you next time. AD: Did you know thoughtbot has a referral program? If you introduce us to someone looking for a design or development partner, we will compensate you if they decide to work with us. More info on our website at: tbot.io/referral. Or you can email us at: referrals@thoughtbot.com with any questions.
Eddy Badrina, CEO of Eden Green Technology once again joins us on ERENEWABLE and The Green Insider podcast. On episode 221, Eddy gives us an update on the greenhouse grown produce market and Eden Green. In August 2022, we learned all about Eden Green and vertical farming. In that episode, … The post Eden Green Technology Continues to Expand in the Dallas Area appeared first on eRENEWABLE.