Shows
Climate ConfidentThe Hidden Power of Sovereign Wealth Funds in Tackling Climate ChangeSend me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr Ana Nacvalovaite, a research fellow at the University of Oxford’s Kellogg College Centre for Mutual and Co-Owned Business. Ana brought a wealth of insight into a fascinating and complex topic: the role of sovereign wealth funds in advancing sustainability, tackling climate change, and driving equitable global development.We started with the basics—what sovereign wealth funds are and why they matter. Think of them as government-managed investment funds, often backed by surplus revenues from reso...2024-11-2040 min
Sustainable Supply ChainHow AI and Consolidated Shipping Are Transforming Logistics SustainabilitySend me a messageIn this episode of The Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I sit down with Thom Campbell, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Capacity LLC, a leading third-party logistics and fulfilment company. Thom shares fascinating insights from his 25 years in the industry, where sustainability has evolved from an afterthought to a core priority.We discuss how Capacity has woven sustainability into its operations, from banning styrofoam peanuts over two decades ago to installing solar panels across their warehouses. Thom dives into consolidated shipping—a practice that not only cuts emissions but also optimises co...2024-11-1838 min
Climate ConfidentThe Intersection of Energy, Climate, and Humanitarian Aid: David Nicholson on Mercy Corps' MissionSend me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I chat with David Nicholson, Mercy Corps' Chief Climate Officer, about their impactful work at the intersection of climate resilience, energy access, and humanitarian action. Mercy Corps operates across 42 countries, tackling critical issues around food and water security, governance, and economic opportunity—all with a climate focus. David explains why energy access, often overlooked in climate adaptation, is vital for vulnerable communities. We dive into the power of renewable microgrids and solar-powered solutions that enable cold storage and water pumping, helping farmers preserve pro...2024-11-1342 min
Sustainable Supply ChainAI and Data: The New Powerhouses of Sustainable Supply Chains with Ganesh GandhieswaranSend me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I sit down with Ganesh Gandhieswaran, Co-Founder and CEO of ConverSight, to dive into how data and AI are transforming sustainable supply chains. Ganesh’s extensive background in data analytics for manufacturing and supply chains sets the stage as we discuss how AI and data integration can offer deep insights for companies aiming to meet sustainability targets.Ganesh explains how today’s data-rich environment provides new opportunities for companies to make informed decisions about carbon emissions, resource usage, and overall environmental impact. Yet...2024-11-1143 min
Climate ConfidentReducing Ice Rinks' Carbon Footprint: Glice’s Eco-Friendly Ice Rinks ExplainedSend 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 ty...2024-11-0632 min
Sustainable Supply ChainESG Mindset Shifts Every Business Leader Needs to KnowSend me a messageIn this episode, which is generously sponsored by Component Sense, I sit down with Joanne Flinn, Chair of the ESG Institute, to unpack what it really means to push sustainability forward in business, far beyond the usual carbon targets. Joanne shares her personal journey to becoming an advocate for sustainable transformation, influenced by her father’s work in agricultural economics and her early exposure to global sustainability issues.We dig into the critical work the ESG Institute is doing to guide companies on their ESG journeys, especially around complex challenges like va...2024-11-0444 min
Climate ConfidentReducing AI, and Tech’s Environmental Impact: A Deep Dive with SustainableIT.org’s Ralph LouraSend me a messageHere’s a deep dive into sustainable IT with Ralph Loura, co-founder and Chairman of SustainableIT.org. In this episode, Ralph shares his journey from CIO to sustainability advocate and outlines why the tech industry must take accountability for its environmental impact. We cover the unique role of technology leaders in driving sustainability, tackling issues like e-waste, energy overuse, and the soaring environmental cost of AI.Ralph introduces SustainableIT.org’s mission, which goes beyond carbon reduction. The organisation focuses on creating frameworks and standards for sustainable IT practices, encouraging tech lead...2024-10-3034 min
Sustainable Supply ChainData-Driven Cold Chains: Enhancing Efficiency, Reducing Waste, and Meeting Sustainability GoalsSend me a messageIn this episode of the *Sustainable Supply Chain* podcast, I sit down with Karl McDermott, Chief SaaS Officer at DeltaTrak, to dive deep into the complex world of cold chain logistics and explore how data is transforming this critical industry. With 35 years under their belt, DeltaTrak has moved from paper-based temperature monitoring to real-time data, unlocking insights that are reshaping how fresh and frozen goods travel across the globe. Karl unpacks the evolution of temperature tracking tech – from USB loggers to advanced real-time monitoring. These innovations enable better control over temperature-sensitive pro...2024-10-2843 min
Climate ConfidentLeveraging Athlete Influence for Climate Leadership – A Conversation with Lew BlausteinSend me a messageIn this week's episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Lew Blaustein, founder and CEO of EcoAthletes, an organisation dedicated to inspiring athletes to lead the charge on climate action. We delve into Lew’s fascinating career pivot, from sports marketing to environmental advocacy, sparked by the events of 9/11 and a pivotal Tom Friedman article on energy dependence and global conflict.Lew shares the unique influence athletes hold in shaping public opinion and how EcoAthletes works to empower them, providing the tools and resources needed to overcome challenges like...2024-10-2341 min
Sustainable Supply ChainAI, Accountability, and Sustainability: The New Supply Chain PlaybookSend me a messageIn this episode of The Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I’m joined by Spencer Malcolm, Principal at Forsyth Advisors, to delve into a pragmatic approach to supply chain sustainability. Spencer brings over 20 years of experience in leadership across multiple industries, from manufacturing, to distribution and strategic sourcing.Throughout our conversation, Spencer outlines how supply chains are evolving, with a particular focus on balancing the capital-S Sustainability (environmental impact) with lowercase-s sustainability (ensuring initiatives are both long-term and viable). We discuss the pitfalls companies often face when trying to "check th...2024-10-2133 min
Climate ConfidentBiofuels, Carbon Capture, and Timber: Climate Solutions with Prof. Valerie ThomasSend me a messageIn this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Professor Valerie Thomas from Georgia Tech to dig deep into some of the pressing topics in the climate space today – from carbon capture and biofuels to the growing potential of using timber in construction.We kicked off with carbon capture, a technology often seen as a critical tool in reducing atmospheric CO2. Valerie broke it down for us, explaining the science behind capturing CO2 from the air and the enormous challenges of scaling this up to meet global needs. Even wi...2024-10-1639 min
Sustainable Supply ChainAI-Powered Supply Chain Sustainability: Transforming Procurement with RobobaiSend me a messageIn this episode, I sit down with Julian Harris, the founder and CEO of Robobai, a supply chain analytics platform. Julian’s got extensive experience building tech companies across Europe and now in Asia, and in our chat, he shares how AI-driven data analytics can transform supply chain management for large organisations. Robobai’s focus is simple but effective: Know More, Buy Better.We discuss the key challenges many companies face—lack of visibility into their spend, complexity from multiple ERP systems, and growing regulatory pressure around sustainability. Julian explains how Roboba...2024-10-1445 min
Climate ConfidentRevolutionising Battery Technology: Dragonfly Energy's Dry Electrode Innovation with Dr Denis PharesSend me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had a great chat with Dr Denis Phares, founder and CEO of Dragonfly Energy. Denis shared the fascinating journey of how Dragonfly Energy came to be, stemming from his background in academia, and a desire to make a tangible impact on climate change through entrepreneurship.We delved into their innovative dry electrode manufacturing process for lithium-ion batteries. This method eliminates the need for toxic solvents, significantly reducing costs and environmental impact. Denis explained how this technology is versatile across various battery chemistries...2024-10-0936 min
Sustainable Supply ChainAI, Real-Time Visibility, and Sustainability: The Future of Supply Chains!Send me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I spoke with Krenar Komoni, the CEO and founder of Tive, about the transformative impact of real-time tracking on supply chain sustainability. We explored how Tive's technology is enabling companies to reduce waste by providing immediate data on the location and condition of shipments, particularly for temperature-sensitive goods like perishables and pharmaceuticals.Krenar shared compelling examples of how real-time monitoring can prevent spoilage. For instance, companies like Alpine Fresh have used Tive's trackers to detect temperature excursions during...2024-10-0740 min
Climate ConfidentClimate Week Highlights: How Data and Tech Drive Corporate SustainabilitySend me a messageWelcome to a special edition of the Climate Confident Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Jim Sullivan, Global Head of Product Management for Sustainability at SAP. With three decades of experience in sustainability and climate change—including roles at the EPA and in startups—Jim offers deep insights into the evolving corporate approach to climate action.We delve into the key takeaways from this year's Climate Week in New York. Jim highlights how the event has grown beyond climate discussions to encompass material transitions like the circular economy and hard...2024-10-0240 min
Sustainable Supply ChainAI in Action: UPS Digital's Approach to Sustainable Supply Chain ManagementSend me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I had a great chat with Dan Spitale, the head of sales for UPS Digital. We delved into how UPS is leveraging technology, particularly AI and predictive analytics, to enhance sustainability in the supply chain. Dan shared insights on how the pandemic has accelerated the demand for last-mile and same-day deliveries, prompting UPS to optimise route design and load management to reduce unnecessary trips and emissions.We discussed the role of predictive analytics in risk mitigation, especially in identifying high-risk delivery locations...2024-09-3041 min
Climate ConfidentThe Truth About Carbon Capture: Michael Barnard Discusses Sustainable AlternativesSend 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...2024-09-2550 min
Sustainable Supply ChainHow Generative AI is Revolutionising Sustainable Supply ChainsSend me a messageIn today's episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast (generously sponsored by Live EO), I had the pleasure of chatting with Kevin Frechette, the co-founder and CEO of Fairmarkit. We delved into the transformative role of AI and generative AI in the procurement sector, particularly how these technologies are reshaping supplier transparency and compliance with ESG goals.Kevin shared insightful examples of how AI is not just a buzzword but a practical tool that's enabling organisations to make more informed and sustainable procurement decisions. We discussed real-world applications, like how companies...2024-09-2339 min
Climate ConfidentBridging the Intention Gap: How Local Governments Can Drive Effective Climate ActionSend me a messageOn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Carina Gormley from the Centre for Public Impact. We delved into the challenges local governments face when implementing climate action plans, particularly the "intention gap" where well-crafted plans struggle to translate into tangible actions due to systemic barriers.Carina shed light on the complexities within government structures, highlighting how departmental silos can hinder collaboration and impede progress on climate initiatives. We discussed the importance of adopting a systemic approach to climate action, emphasising the need for...2024-09-1853 min
Sustainable Supply ChainEUDR Compliance Simplified: The Role of Accurate Data in Risk ReductionSend me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I had an insightful conversation with John Atkinson, the Chief Product Officer at LiveEO. We explored how satellite imagery and advanced machine learning are transforming supply chain sustainability, particularly in light of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).John shared how LiveEO began by monitoring vegetation risks to infrastructure like railways and power grids, using Earth observation data to help companies manage maintenance proactively. Recognising the parallels between monitoring vegetation growth and deforestation, they've developed a new solution to assist companies in...2024-09-1639 min
Climate ConfidentClimate-Smart Agriculture: Transforming Rice Farming for a Greener FutureSend me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I’m joined by Dev Dalal and Xavi Laguarta, co-founders of Mitti Labs, for an insightful chat about the critical role of sustainable agriculture in combating climate change.Dev and Xavi explain how traditional rice farming, particularly in India and Southeast Asia, is a significant source of methane emissions – a potent greenhouse gas. We dive into how Mitti Labs is addressing this through innovative solutions like alternate wetting and drying, direct seeding of rice, and carbon credit incentivisation. These practices not only reduce emis...2024-09-1145 min
Sustainable Supply ChainPFAS and the Future of Compliance: Essential Insights for Supply ChainSend me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I’m joined by Cally Edgren, Vice President of Regulatory & Sustainability at Assent, to explore the complex world of PFAS, or "forever chemicals."Cally sheds light on what PFAS are, why they’re so prevalent in modern manufacturing, and the significant health and environmental risks associated with them. We dive into the challenges companies face in identifying and removing these chemicals from their supply chains, as well as the fast-paced regulatory landscape that’s forcing businesses to adapt—particularly in the US and EU.2024-09-0935 min
Climate ConfidentThe 2024 US Presidential Election: Climate Stakes Are Higher Than EverSend me a messageIn this episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Jay Hakes, a renowned expert in U.S. energy and environmental policy. We delved into the critical role the upcoming U.S. presidential election will play in shaping global climate action, particularly as we approach the 2030 climate targets.Dr. Hakes provided an insightful analysis of how the U.S. political system, with its built-in complexities, often hinders swift climate action. He shared his thoughts on the historical impact of past presidential decisions, particularly around automobile...2024-09-0441 min
Sustainable Supply ChainThe Future of Supply Chains: AI, Agility, and Reducing Environmental ImpactSend me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with John Sicard, CEO of Kinaxis. We delved deep into the shifting landscape of supply chain management, exploring how traditional approaches are giving way to more agile, concurrent techniques. John shared invaluable insights into why the old cascaded, siloed methods no longer cut it, especially in a post-pandemic world where resilience and sustainability are paramount.We also discussed the role of technology in this transformation, with a particular focus on AI and machine learning. John made...2024-08-2643 min
Climate ConfidentProactive Conservation: Larry Selzer on Saying Yes to Climate Solutions!Send me a messageWelcome to another episode of the Climate Confident podcast! I'm Tom Raftery, and today I had the pleasure of chatting with Larry Selzer, President and CEO of The Conservation Fund. Larry shares his fascinating journey from marine biologist to conservation leader, explaining how he's found at the intersection of economic development and environmental preservation.In this episode, Larry discusses the innovative strategies The Conservation Fund employs to conserve land while supporting economic vitality. We delve into the importance of shifting the environmental movement from a position of saying no to one...2024-07-2437 min
Climate ConfidentThe Road to Decarbonisation: Urban Mobility and EV Supply Chains with Lina FedirkoSend 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...2024-07-171h 06
Sustainable Supply ChainCutting Costs, Not Corners: Elizabeth Corbett on Sustainable Packaging SolutionsSend me a messageWelcome to another insightful episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast! I’m Tom Raftery, and today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Elizabeth Corbett, President of the Enterprise Team at A.E. Global. Elizabeth brings over 25 years of expertise in packaging, focusing on sustainability and innovation.In this episode, Elizabeth shares her journey from graphic design to leading a top packaging company. We delve into the critical aspects of sustainable packaging, from the importance of right-sizing to reducing plastic use and exploring compostable materials. Elizabeth highlights the impact of re...2024-07-1539 min
Climate ConfidentTucker Perkins on Renewable Propane and a Sustainable Energy MixSend me a messageWelcome to another episode of the Climate Confident Podcast! I'm Tom Raftery, and today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tucker Perkins, the CEO of the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC). In our conversation, Tucker delved into the role of propane and renewable propane in the journey towards a cleaner climate.We explored the extensive safety and training measures PERC implements to ensure safe propane usage across various sectors. Tucker highlighted the innovation in more efficient, lower-emission propane appliances and discussed the environmental potential of renewable propane, derived from...2024-06-1245 min
Sustainable Supply ChainTransforming Supply Chains: How to Tackle Scope 3 EmissionsSend me a messageWelcome to another episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast! I'm Tom Raftery, and in today's show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Katie Martin from Avetta. Katie delves into the critical topic of managing scope 3 emissions, highlighting the complexities businesses face in this emerging area.Katie explains how Avetta helps companies identify high-risk suppliers and streamline data collection, making it easier to transition from estimated to direct emissions data. We discuss the importance of proactive supplier engagement to drive both sustainability and efficiency, ultimately reducing costs and enhancing resilience.2024-06-1039 min
Climate ConfidentUnlocking Climate Solutions: The Role of Women and Nature's RightsSend me a messageWelcome to this episode of the Climate Confident Podcast. I'm Tom Raftery, and today I'm joined by Osprey Orielle Lake, founder and executive director of the Women's Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN). Osprey shares her journey from early environmental activism in California's Redwood forests to leading WECAN, highlighting the crucial role of women in climate solutions.We delve into the significant impact of women's political empowerment on reducing carbon emissions and explore the Rights of Nature movement, which seeks to recognise ecosystems as legal entities with rights. Osprey also discusses...2024-05-2935 min
Sustainable Supply ChainSimplifying Sourcing: Fictiv’s Approach to Sustainable Manufacturing with Nate EvansSend me a messageWelcome to the latest episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast. I’m Tom Raftery, and today I’m joined by Nate Evans, co-founder and CXO of Fictiv. Nate shares invaluable insights into how Fictiv is transforming the landscape of sourcing for engineers and supply chain teams through their innovative digitized manufacturing network.We delve into Fictiv’s mission to simplify sourcing for plastic and metal parts, highlighting the significant role of early design decisions in achieving sustainability. Nate and I explore the critical importance of collaboration between engineers, supply chain teams...2024-05-2740 min
Climate ConfidentCarbon Neutral Farming: How Regenerative Agriculture Can Save Our Soil and Boost ProfitsSend me a messageWelcome to another episode of the Climate Confident podcast. I’m Tom Raftery, and today, I'm delighted to be joined by Robin Saluoks, CEO and founder of eAgronom. Robin shares his insights on the crucial role of regenerative agriculture and how it can revolutionise farming.We delve into Robin’s unique background, growing up in Estonia on a family farm, and how this experience, combined with his expertise in computer science, led to the creation of eAgronom. We discuss the significance of sustainable farming practices, including cover cropping, zero cultivation, and agro...2024-05-2235 min
Sustainable Supply ChainFrom Cost-Cutting to Carbon Footprints: The Evolution of ProcurementSend me a messageWelcome to the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast. I’m Tom Raftery, and this week, I spoke with Anders Lillevik, CEO and founder of Focal Point, a company specialising in procurement orchestration and management as a software service.Anders discusses the evolving landscape of procurement, highlighting its shift from cost-saving to incorporating supplier risk management and sustainability. He explains the modern challenges where companies need to ensure suppliers are environmentally responsible, socially compliant, and financially stable.Key takeaways include integrating sustainability into procurement strategy rather than treating it as a st...2024-05-2029 min
Climate ConfidentSaving Ourselves: Climate Action and Activism with Dana R. FisherSend me a messageHi everyone, Tom Raftery here, and welcome back to another episode of the Climate Confident podcast. This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dana R. Fisher, director of the Centre for Environment, Community, and Equity at American University and author of the new book, Saving Ourselves - From Climate Shocks to Climate Action.Dana brings 25 years of research on climate policymaking and activism to our conversation, providing valuable insights into the current state of the climate crisis. We delved into the evolution of climate policy, from the early days...2024-05-1540 min