Shows
The Circular Future - Advancing Business CircularityThe Circular Economy: Year in ReviewSend us a textIn this episode, Stephanie McLarty reflects on the major themes of the circular economy in 2025, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs in e-waste management, circular value creation, the Right to Repair movement, collaboration, digital product passports, compliance with new regulations, and the need for a fundamental rethinking of business practices to embrace circular principles. Takeaways 2025 has seen significant shifts in the circular economy. Circular value creation maximizes resource value throughout a product's life cycle. Collaboration is essential for circular transformation. Collaboration is essential for circular transformation. Thanks for tuni...
2025-12-1814 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity55. Turning Old Tech into New ImpactSend us a textWhat if your junk drawer is quietly holding cash, critical minerals, and a few nagging data risks? We sit down with Stephanie McLarty, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, to map a simple, secure path from clutter to circularity. From reducing impulse upgrades to choosing certified recycling, this conversation turns good intentions into easy wins you can apply today. We dig into the environmental stakes—toxins in landfills, lithium-linked fire risks, and the high emissions cost of new manufacturing—and show how reuse and responsible recycling conserve resources while supporting digita...
2025-12-0424 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business CircularityIf Nature Has No Waste, Why Do WeSend us a textWhat if your junk drawer is quietly holding cash, critical minerals, and a few nagging data risks? We sit down with Stephanie McClerti, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, to map a simple, secure path from clutter to circularity. From reducing impulse upgrades to choosing certified recycling, this conversation turns good intentions into easy wins you can apply today.We dig into the environmental stakes—toxins in landfills, lithium‑linked fire risks, and the high emissions cost of new manufacturing—and show how reuse and responsible recycling conserve resources while suppor...
2025-11-2721 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity54. Stories of Circular Business TransformationSend us a textWe explore how circular thinking creates real business value, from lower costs and resilient supply chains to new product lines and revenue. Andrew Telfer shares practical case studies and simple steps any company can take to move from linear to circular.• industrial symbiosis turning outputs into inputs• upcycling examples from juice pulp to ginger beer• traditional manufacturing reusing offcuts for new lines• circularity linked to climate action and net zero• reduce, reuse, recycle as an operational playbook• frontline insights to locate and fix waste• shorter supply chains...
2025-11-2433 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity53. Season 3: Circularity in ActionSend us a textThe conversation you’ve been asking for is finally here: fewer slogans, more results. We’re kicking off season three by sharpening our promise—spotlighting real stories of business circularity that cut waste, save money, and build resilient operations across North America.We trace how listener questions evolved from “What are carbon credits?” to “How did they actually do that?” and explain why the centre of gravity has moved from ESG buzz to measurable circular outcomes. Along the way, we unpack the role AI now plays in the loop—forecasting returns, improving gradin...
2025-11-0708 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity52. The role of AI in Sustainable TransportSend us a textIn this episode, Stephanie McLarty speaks with Rich Savoie, CEO of Adiona Tech, about the importance of sustainable logistics and the role of AI in optimizing transport emissions. They discuss a circular pilot project in Australia focused on recycling champagne corks and the challenges faced in the logistics of recycling. Rich shares insights on the significance of commercial transport emissions, the lessons learned from the pilot, and how AI can help improve supply chain efficiency. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to engage CFOs in sustainability initiatives and the urgency of taking...
2025-06-1939 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity51. Sustainable Procurement: A Net Zero StrategySend us a textIn this conversation, Stephanie McLarty and Bob Willard delve into the concept of sustainable procurement, exploring its definition, importance, and implementation strategies. Bob shares his extensive experience in sustainability and emphasizes the need for organizations to engage suppliers in their sustainability goals. The discussion covers various aspects of sustainable procurement, including the significance of circularity, the tools available for implementation, and the innovative 'signal, prefer, require' framework. Bob also provides practical advice for organizations looking to adopt sustainable practices, highlighting the interconnectedness of sustainability and business success.Takeaways
2025-06-0542 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity50. Mabel's Labels: A Sustainable Success StorySend us a textIn today’s episode, Stephanie McLarty sits down with Julie Cole, co-founder of Mabel’s Labels to uncover the story behind the business. Julie shares how Mabels Labels integrates eco-conscious practices into everything, from product design to operations. This episode offers real-world insights and actionable advice for businesses looking to embrace sustainability while staying true to their values.Takeaways:✅ They have successfully repurposed non-recyclable material into insulation✅ Teamwork and shared values are crucial for achieving sustainability goals✅ Businesses should start small and gradually incorporate sustainability into their practices one step a...
2025-05-1527 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity49. Three circularity tips for next three monthsSend us a textSummaryIn this conversation, Stephanie McLarty and Heidi Frasure discuss actionable circularity tips in celebration of Earth Week. They emphasize the importance of reframing messaging, redefining value in sustainability, and activating strategies to engage teams in sustainability efforts. The discussion highlights the need for integration of sustainability goals into corporate strategies and the importance of community impact. The conversation concludes with advice for sustainability professionals to take care of themselves amidst the challenges of the industry.TakeawaysReframe your messaging to be more...
2025-05-0225 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity48. What Data Centre Decommissioning MeansSend us a textThe often-invisible backbone of our digital world, the physical infrastructure of data centers, carries significant environmental weight when it reaches the end of its operational life. This podcast episode delves into the crucial yet frequently overlooked process of data center decommissioning. Mark Petrie from Quantum Lifecycle Partners sheds light on the complexities involved as organizations increasingly migrate to the cloud due to the demands of artificial intelligence and the need for technology refreshes, all while navigating cybersecurity concerns. This shift generates a constant stream of retired IT equipment, laden with both valuable materials...
2025-04-1818 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity47. The Environmental Impact of A.I.Send us a text10x the Energy of a Google Search: The Hidden Environmental Impact of AI. In this episode of The Circular Future podcast, host Stephanie McLarty, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, dives into the environmental consequences of artificial intelligence. This episode uncovers the hidden costs of AI, including its massive energy, water, and material demands, while also exploring how AI can be part of the solution to sustainability challenges. Through insights and actionable strategies, this episode equips listeners to champion responsible AI use and circular economy practices in their businesses a...
2025-03-1308 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity46. The Future of the Circular Economy in CanadaSend us a textIn this episode of The Circular Future , host Stephanie McLarty, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, sits down with two leading voices in the circular economy movement: Jo-Anne St. Godard, Executive Director of the Circular Innovation Council, and Paul Shorthouse, Managing Director of Circular Economy Leadership Canada (CELC). Together, they explore how a circular economy can address some of society’s most pressing challenges—beyond just resource efficiency and clean tech. From affordability and housing crises to climate change, the conversation dives into actionable strategies for businesses, governments, and individuals to transition towa...
2025-02-2735 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity45. 2025 Basel Convention Updates: Navigating E-Waste Trade in a Circular EconomySend us a textStephanie McLarty, Head of Sustainability at Quantum Lifecycle Partners, unpacks the critical 2025 amendments to the Basel Convention and their impact on global e-waste management. Learn how new rules governing transboundary movements of electronic waste could reshape supply chains, compliance requirements, and recycling practices—even for businesses not directly involved in international trade.Key Takeaways:Basel Convention Basics: Established in 1989 to regulate hazardous waste trade, now expanded to include stricter controls on e-waste (e-Amendments).New Definitions: Covers whole electronics, components (e.g., circuit boards), and pr...
2025-02-1308 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity44. Navigating European Legislation for SustainabilitySend us a textIn this podcast episode, Stephanie McLarty speaks with Julie-Ann Adams about the evolving landscape of European legislation affecting sustainability, particularly in the realms of e-waste and battery recycling. They discuss the complexities of the EU Waste Shipment Regulation, the implications of the Basel Convention changes, and the upcoming battery legislation. Julie-Ann emphasizes the importance of understanding these regulations for companies operating in or exporting to Europe, highlighting the need for proactive measures to ensure compliance and sustainability.TakeawaysEurope is leading in environmental protections and legislation.The EU Waste Shipment...
2025-01-3029 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity43. Harnessing Technology for a Sustainable FutureSend us a textIn this conversation, Stephanie McLarty and Geoff Aardsma discuss the intersection of sustainability and technology, particularly focusing on how automation, AI, and big data can enhance business efficiency and support circular economy initiatives. Jeff shares insights on AMCS's role in resource management, the importance of engaging upstream in recycling processes, and the current state of technology adoption in various industries. They also explore the financial implications of implementing these technologies, the need for senior leadership buy-in, and the significance of maintaining curiosity in a rapidly evolving landscape....
2025-01-1631 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity43. Reflecting on a Year of SustainabilitySend us a textIn this year-end review episode of the Circular Future podcast, host Stephanie McLarty reflects on the key themes and insights from 2024, from the impact of artificial intelligence on business, the importance of the circular economy, the right to repair movement, and navigating corporate sustainability amidst new regulations. Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi a...
2024-12-1910 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity42. Understanding E-Waste: Risks and ResponsibilitiesSend us a textIn this episode, Stephanie McLarty and Steven Napoli discuss the critical importance of responsible e-waste management and recycling. They explore the environmental and health risks associated with improper disposal of electronics, the role of certifications in ensuring safe and sustainable recycling practices, and the challenges faced in increasing awareness and participation in e-waste recycling. Steve shares insights on Terra's initiatives, the significance of certified recyclers, and how businesses can effectively manage their e-waste. The conversation emphasizes the need for education, awareness, and the responsibility of individuals and organizations to recycle electronics properly.
2024-11-2123 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity41. The Future of Repairable DevicesSend us a textPetri Hayrynen, Global Head of Product Marketing at HMD Global, joins us for an insightful conversation about sustainable smartphones. We delve into HMD's innovative approach to crafting devices that are not only durable but also easy to repair. Petri shares how HMD's design philosophy focuses on simplifying the repair process, making it accessible to everyone.The episode highlights HMD's unique collaborations with brands like Barbie and Sony. These partnerships not only enhance brand identity but also reinforce HMD's commitment to sustainability. We explore how these collaborations help make sustainability in mobile...
2024-11-0729 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity40. Hamilton Health Sciences: A Success Story in SustainabilitySend us a textSummaryHamilton Health Sciences in Ontario is a success story in sustainability in the healthcare sector. They have reduced their emissions by 49% since 2016 and have implemented various waste reduction programs. They have also digitized patient records, resulting in a 200 metric ton reduction in paper use. The hospital has faced challenges in allocating resources and evaluating the effectiveness of programs. Collaboration with stakeholders and fostering engagement and interest in sustainability initiatives have been key to their success. The advice from the conversation is to invest in knowledge and literacy, do your part...
2024-10-2432 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity39. Celebrating Circular Economy MonthSend us a textIn this episode, host Stephanie McLarty discusses the significance of Circular Economy Month with guests Caitlin Perry and Audrey Manuel from the Circular Innovation Council. They explore the transition from Waste Reduction Week to a broader focus on the circular economy, emphasizing the importance of systemic change in consumption and waste management. The conversation highlights the various themes of Circular Economy Month, the role of businesses and individuals in promoting circular practices, and the resources available for participation. The episode concludes with advice on how to engage in circular economy initiatives and the...
2024-10-0922 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity38. Behind the Scenes at eSummit 2024Send us a textIn this episode of The Circular Future podcast, host Stephanie McLarty discusses the recent acquisition of the eReuse conference by CERI with guests Corey Dehmey and Sarah Kim. They explore the mission of CERI in promoting electronics sustainability, the upcoming eSummit, and the importance of collaboration and networking within the industry. The conversation highlights trends in electronics sustainability, the structure of the eSummit, and advice for attendees on how to maximize their conference experience.TakeawaysSERI is a nonprofit focused on electronics sustainability.The eSummit will feature...
2024-09-2622 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity37. Electric Vehicles vs. Gas: Cost and Experience for Long Work TripsSend us a textHow much would you save on an 800-kilometer work trip by choosing an electric vehicle over a gas-powered one? In this episode, we break down the costs and logistics of a journey from Hamilton to North Bay, Ontario. We discuss not only the stark difference in fuel expenses—$150 for gas versus $56 for an EV—but also the time and planning considerations involved. Discover how the seamless integration of charging stops into the EV's system makes a compelling case for electric vehicles, not just from a financial perspective but also in terms of reducing your...
2024-09-1212 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity36. What Canada’s new greenwashing legislation means for your businessSend us a textCanada has introduced new legislation to counter greenwashing, which is already in effect. The legislation, called Bill C-59, is a significant amendment to Canada's Competition Act and aims to address false or misleading environmental and social claims. The penalties for greenwashing can be severe, ranging up to $10 million or 3% of the company's global annual gross revenue. The legislation applies to every business operating in Canada, regardless of size or industry. Organizations can take steps to counter greenwashing, such as educating themselves, reviewing their communications, and using existing standards and certifications....
2024-08-2909 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity35. The Environmental Impact of Office FurnitureSend us a textCan remanufacturing reshape the future of office furniture? Join us on this episode of the Circular Future as we uncover the innovative world of sustainable office furniture with Doug Pilgrim, the Sustainability Advocate for Davies Office. With a fascinating backstory dating back over 70 years, Davies Office has evolved from a humble wood furniture refinisher to the largest furniture remanufacturer in the United States. Doug distinguishes between remanufacturing and refurbishing, and explains how modern trends like lower-height panels for collaboration and natural light have spurred significant changes. Discover how remanufacturing not only diverts waste...
2024-08-1528 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity34. Achieving Zero Waste: Strategies and Solutions for BusinessesSend us a textUnlock the secrets of zero waste in business with our host Stephanie McLarty and incredible guest Celeste McMickle, the Director of Client Solutions for True Zero Waste Certification at the US Green Building Council. Celeste uncovers the hidden world of industrial waste, often invisible to consumers, and its massive impact on the circular economy. She enlightens us on the zero waste hierarchy, highlighting the critical strategies of redesign, reduction, and reuse to proactively prevent waste.Next, we discuss the rising wave of companies striving for zero waste certification as they navigate t...
2024-08-0129 minThe Circular Future - Advancing Business Circularity33. Measuring Circularity Beyond CarbonSend us a textWhat does it take to measure circularity and improve our global sustainability efforts? In this episode, we speak with Heidi Frasure, head of Sustainability at Green Standards, who shares actionable insights into her company's pioneering circular business model. Learn how Green Standards sustainably manages decommissioned office materials on a global scale and the significant role of systems thinking and design thinking in addressing environmental and social impacts in procurement and workplaces.Discover why focusing solely on carbon emissions is not enough and how avoiding "carbon tunnel vision" can lead to more...
2024-07-1824 min