37: Anna Alex's Quest For Purpose-Driven Business Models - Dive Into The Anna's Story And Her New Venture Nala.Earth SustainNOW Podcast - Exploring Climate Solutions With Innovators And Entrepreneurs podcast

48:59

In this episode we focus on Regenerative agriculture, which presents a transformative approach to combating climate change while enhancing the soil's health. ⁠ Francisco Roque de Pinho⁠ shares insights into how ⁠the Land Group⁠ scales regenerative practices for financial and environmental benefits, while also intertwining his passion for surfing and resilience with his entrepreneurial journey. In this episode we address: • Exploration of regenerative agriculture and its significance • Discussion of the Land Group's mission and investment model • Challenges of scaling regenerative practices • Financial mechanics of transitioning to sustainable operations • Carbon capture opportunities through livestock management • Overcoming barriers in capital and education for better practices • Crop management strategies within regenerative frameworks • Connection between big-wave surfing lessons and business resilience • The importance of profitability alongside environmental impact Credits : Intro music by ⁠Oleksandr Stepanov⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠ Intro voice Wondercraft.ai/studioEditing by Maria Elena Escalona Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.chIdeas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch…

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38: From Oil Industry Insider to Environmental Champion: Curtis Shuck's Mission to Plug Abandoned Wells 43:14

hace 9 weeks43:14

43:14

Curtis E. Shuck Jr., a former oil and gas industry insider, stumbled upon a pressing environmental crisis that changed his life's course. Discover how his unexpected encounter with orphaned oil and gas wells in Montana ignited the birth of the Well Done Foundation, a nonprofit tackling these hazardous sites one well at a time. Curtis's journey from industry "bad guy" to environmental champion is a testament to the power of grassroots innovation and the relentless pursuit of environmental restoration. Tune in as we illuminate the Well Done Foundation's remarkable expansion across 16 states, driven by the passion of hundreds of volunteers and a core team. Learn how this dedicated group has successfully plugged 47 wells and ventured into the carbon credit market to fund their noble cause. This episode sheds light on the intricate dance of collaboration with landowners, regulatory bodies, and the oil and gas sector to address the abandoned well crisis, highlighting the importance of responsible energy practices in combating climate change. We delve into the complexities of measuring methane emissions and the groundbreaking methodologies the foundation has developed for carbon credit certification. Curtis shares the logistics of well plugging and the crucial role transparency plays in the voluntary carbon market. As the Well Done Foundation looks to expand its impact, Curtis discusses the potential of carbon finance programs to further their mission, offering a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future. Join us as we explore how determination and innovation can overcome even the most daunting environmental challenges. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch…

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37: Anna Alex's Quest for Purpose-Driven Business Models - Dive into the Anna's story and her new venture Nala.Earth 47:15

hace 18 weeks47:15

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Today, we're thrilled to have Anna Alex, a serial entrepreneur and visionary, as our guest. Anna has co-founded and scaled several successful companies, including Outfittery, Planetly, and now Nala Earth. Her journey is a testament to her passion for innovation and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on our planet. As Anna herself puts it, "We need to overcome this nonprofit for-profit idea and split in our heads." → can you get this quote out of the podcast? In this episode, we'll explore Anna's entrepreneurial journey, delve into the challenges and triumphs of building climate-focused startups, and discuss the critical role of technology in addressing the biodiversity crisis. Join us as we uncover the inspiring story of Anna Alex and her mission to create a more sustainable world.…

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36: Cracking Methane Emissions: A Seaweed Solution for Cattle 55:15

hace 28 weeks55:15

55:15

In this episode of Sustain Now , we dive into an innovative solution to combat one of the most pressing environmental issues: methane emissions from livestock. The guest, Steve Meller, CEO and Co-founder of CH4 Global, takes us on a journey of discovering how seaweed can significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle. Founded in 2018, CH4 Global is on a mission to tackle methane—a greenhouse gas with more than 80 times the warming potential of CO2 over 20 years. Methane is primarily emitted by livestock, especially cattle, through their digestive process known as enteric fermentation. CH4 Global has developed a groundbreaking feed supplement using red seaweed (Asparagopsis) that, when added in small amounts to cattle feed, can reduce methane emissions by up to 90%. This solution is backed by scientific research from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) and others, showing its incredible potential to curb the climate impact of livestock farming. The episode also delves into CH4 Global's journey, from the launch of their first product, Methane Tamer™ Beef Feedlot, in April 2023, to the company's ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions at gigatonne scale by 2030. Steve shares insights into the challenges and opportunities the company faces, as they work to scale up seaweed production to meet global demand. With a $47 million investment backing their efforts, CH4 Global is making strides in producing and processing Asparagopsis efficiently, aiming to help farmers reduce emissions and tackle climate change head-on. The episode covers pivotal moments in Steve's entrepreneurial journey, including insights on entrepreneurship later in life, the challenges of scaling a business, and the loneliness of running a startup. Steve reflects on his experiences and how mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs can play a critical role in guiding younger startups. We also explore the global methane challenge and the importance of focusing on this potent greenhouse gas, especially with initiatives like the 2021 Global Methane Pledge. Despite increased international efforts, more innovation is needed in agriculture to address methane emissions. CH4 Global’s solution is one of the many important tools required to mitigate the effects of climate change. Join us as we discuss the science, challenges, and future of CH4 Global’s seaweed-based solution to methane emissions in livestock, and how such innovations offer hope for solving the climate crisis. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on nature-based solutions and entrepreneurship that could reshape the future of sustainable agriculture. Key Topics: 03:00 - How did you become interested in cow burps and farts? 05:00 - Pivotal moments in the development of CH4 Global. 09:11 - Entrepreneurship at a later stage in life. 11:58 - The challenges and loneliness of entrepreneurship. 17:05 - Scaling up seaweed production for agriculture. 23:45 - Learning the challenges of growing seaweed. 28:12 - Introduction to CH4 Global’s seaweed feed additive. 32:44 - Cost-effective methods for growing and processing seaweed. 37:13 - Achieving a 70% reduction in methane emissions. 42:25 - The problem of methane emissions and the solution. 49:14 - CH4 Global’s goal for gigaton-scale reductions by 2030. 54:53 - Hope for solving the climate crisis.…

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35: Refurbed - how a refurbishing marketplace is resilient against current market economics. Interview with Refurbed Co-founder Kilian Kaminski. 49:01

hace 31 weeks49:01

49:01

In this episode of Sustain Now , we sit down with Kilian Kaminski, Co-founder of Refurbed, a leading marketplace for refurbished products. Refurbed offers consumers a sustainable alternative to buying new, with a growing selection of electronics, sports equipment, and household items. Through a meticulous 40-step refurbishment process, Refurbed ensures top-quality, affordable products while promoting a circular economy and reducing electronic waste. Kilian shares the story behind Refurbed’s founding in Vienna in 2017, which stemmed from a personal frustration with the lack of warranties on used products. Since then, the company has expanded rapidly, now serving over 815,000 customers across nine European markets. Refurbed’s mission is not just about offering second-hand products but driving sustainable consumption, helping reduce the environmental impact of e-waste, and offering an eco-friendly solution to millions of consumers. In this episode, Kilian discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a business in the sustainability space, the growing demand for circular economy solutions, and how Refurbed is tackling greenwashing and pushing for more sustainable practices in the electronics industry. He also touches on the current trends in the market and offers tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. Join us for an insightful conversation on how Refurbed is reshaping the future of sustainable consumption and helping reduce e-waste—one refurbished product at a time. Key Topics: 02:06 – Kilian’s favorite secondhand product 03:03 – The refurbishing process for ski equipment 13:46 – How the sustainability market has evolved since 2017 20:00 – Balancing sustainability with convenience and price 22:47 – What needs to change in the electronics industry 37:10 – The hardest part of running a sustainable company 42:59 – Kilian’s hope for solving the climate crisis Tune in for a powerful discussion on innovation, sustainability, and the circular economy!…

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34: Revolutionizing Smartphones: Fairphone's Path to Sustainability and Ethical Tech with Founder Bas van Abel 44:46

hace 33 weeks44:46

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In this episode of Sustain Now , we speak with Bas van Abel, the founder of Fairphone, the world’s first smartphone company designed with sustainability and ethical practices at its core. Bas shares his journey from a curious child fascinated by how things work, to becoming a pioneer in the sustainable tech industry. After seeing the waste and harm caused by the smartphone industry, he was inspired to create a company that would address these issues head-on, starting with the Fairphone crowdfunding campaign that eventually grew into a successful business. Fairphone is revolutionizing the smartphone industry by focusing on reducing electronic waste, promoting a circular economy, and ensuring a transparent and ethical supply chain. Their modular phones allow for easy repair and upgrading, significantly extending the device’s lifespan and reducing the need for constant replacements. Fairphone is also committed to using recycled materials and closely monitoring the procurement of minerals to ensure they are sourced ethically, avoiding conflict minerals and minimizing environmental damage. In this episode, Bas talks about his motivation for starting Fairphone, the challenges of changing the smartphone industry, and the company's impact in terms of CO2 reduction, e-waste recycling, and customer engagement. He also discusses the future of Fairphone, the importance of sustainable tech, and how the company is pushing for systemic change in how smartphones are made and consumed. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how Bas van Abel and Fairphone are paving the way for more ethical, sustainable technology in an industry often criticized for its environmental and human rights impacts. Key Topics: 03:00 – What drives Bas van Abel 10:00 – From crowdfunding campaign to a product 33:00 – What makes Fairphone sustainable 35:00 – Fairphone’s growth and future focus Don’t miss this insightful episode on ethical tech and how one company is changing the smartphone industry for the better!…

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33: Charging Forward: Inside 8Inks's Lithium-Ion Battery manufacturing innovation 32:58

hace 44 weeks32:58

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In this episode of SustainNOW , we delve into the world of innovative lithium-ion battery manufacturing with Paul Baade, the co-founder of 8Inks. From his early days at ETH Zurich, where he developed an electric race car in the Model F1 Club, to his Ph.D. in materials and device engineering, Paul’s journey has been fueled by a passion for sustainable technology. Now, through 8Inks, Paul is revolutionizing battery design, pushing the boundaries of performance, reliability, and sustainability. Join us as Paul walks us through the cutting-edge processes 8Inks is using to transform the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries. We explore key topics like battery efficiency, the future of electric aviation, and the importance of circularity in battery production. With the growing demand for greener energy solutions, Paul’s insights into the next-gen advancements in energy storage are both eye-opening and hopeful for a more sustainable tomorrow. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation on the future of energy storage and the role 8Inks is playing in shaping it.…

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32: Design Meets Sustainability in Mutebox's Modular Office Revolution 37:52

hace 45 weeks37:52

37:52

Today, we're focusing on MuteBox, a company dedicated to redefining workspace design by offering modular phone booths and meeting rooms with a sustainability focus. Joining us are Christian Toft Bach, CMO, and Adil Sheikh, Managing Director of MuteBox, who share the journey of this innovative Danish company. MuteBox offers a smart solution to the hybrid workspace challenge by creating sound-regulating phone booths that fit seamlessly into existing office environments. As companies adapt to post-pandemic work habits, the pressure to balance in-person collaboration with individual privacy grows. MuteBox meets this demand by offering flexible, sustainable office solutions that require no major renovations. Crafted with eco-friendly materials, each booth is designed for easy repair and upgrade, and with each unit sold, MuteBox contributes to reforestation through their partnership with the Growing Trees Network. Listen in as Christian and Adil discuss MuteBox’s mission to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial office spaces and how their modular designs are helping businesses build more sustainable, adaptable work environments. From the impact of office buildings on global emissions to the future of office design, this episode sheds light on the innovative ways MuteBox is paving the way toward a greener, more sustainable workplace.…

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31: Synonym's mission to create a new green asset class - using bioeconomy to replace 50% of petrochemical products 49:12

hace 51 weeks49:12

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In this episode of SustainNOW , we sit down with co-founder Joshua Lachter to explore how Synonym is pioneering the bioeconomy revolution. As a self-proclaimed biological maximalist, Joshua is dedicated to using biotechnology to replace petrochemical products and accelerate the transition to sustainable materials. Synonym’s mission is ambitious: to create a bioeconomy asset class that enables the commercialization of bio-based products, aiming to replace over 50% of petrochemical products with bio-manufactured alternatives. Joshua takes us on a journey through Synonym’s innovative approach to scaling the bioeconomy, from providing financial and developmental services to startups, to connecting companies with bio-manufacturing facilities. We also discuss Synonym’s game-changing tools, Capacitor and Scaler , which are designed to make bio-manufacturing more accessible and affordable for businesses. With support from top investors and a recent collaboration with Boston Consulting Group, Synonym is positioning itself at the forefront of the bioeconomy, working to make nature-based solutions a sustainable, scalable reality. Tune in to hear how Synonym is shaping the future of biotechnology and pushing the world toward more efficient and sustainable production methods.…

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30: Making farming sexy again: How Climate Farmers Aims to Support Regenerative Farmers with Co-Founder Philipp Birker 43:33

hace 1 year43:33

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In this episode of SustainNOW , Philippe Birker, co-founder of Climate Farmers , takes us on a journey into the world of regenerative agriculture. Growing up in an agricultural town in Western Germany, Philippe has always been connected to farming, and now he’s dedicated to restoring its image and making it more sustainable. He shares his mission to make farming "sexy again" by highlighting the importance of regenerative practices that enhance soil health, increase biodiversity, and combat climate change. Climate Farmers was founded with the aim of building the infrastructure needed to scale regenerative agriculture in Europe. Philippe explains the two key functions of the organization: the Regenerative Farming Academy , which connects a community of farmers to support the transition to regenerative practices, and CarbonCredit+ , a program that allows farmers to earn carbon credits by sequestering carbon in their soil, which companies can purchase to meet sustainability goals. Philippe discusses how regenerative agriculture not only benefits the environment but also provides long-term financial opportunities for farmers. He explains how carbon credits work, the future of farming, and what needs to change in Europe to truly scale sustainable practices. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of agriculture and its critical role in solving the climate crisis.…

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29: From Ancient Organism to Renewable Energy Superhero: Electrochaea Synthesis of Synthetic Methane 48:50

hace 1 year48:50

48:50

In this episode of SustainNOW , Doris Hafenbradl, CTO of Electrochaea , shares her groundbreaking work harnessing the power of archaea to create sustainable bio-methane. Doris, a passionate scientist with a background in biotech and pharmaceuticals, has spent over a decade exploring how ancient organisms like archaea can revolutionize energy production. Electrochaea leverages methanogenic archaea to convert renewable energy and carbon dioxide into synthetic methane, a crucial energy product compatible with existing gas infrastructure. This innovative process not only helps mitigate harmful CO2 emissions but also creates a reliable energy source from renewable sources like wind and solar. Doris explains the technology behind Electrochaea, which involves using renewable hydrogen to interact with CO2 in bioreactors where archaea produce methane. This process can significantly reduce carbon emissions while producing clean, grid-compatible energy. The episode also dives into the company’s current projects, including feasibility studies in Denmark, the USA, and Canada, and the plans for future expansion. With the world facing an energy crisis, Electrochaea offers a promising solution that could play a pivotal role in moving away from fossil fuels toward a more sustainable energy future. Doris discusses the challenges of scaling this technology, the potential for upscaling, and the future of energy.…

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28: Policy Special Focus - Regenerative Agriculture Policy with NRDC Deputy Director Lara Bryant 29:07

hace 1 year29:07

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Today I am talking with Lara Bryant, Deputy Director of NRDC (The Nature Resource Defence Council) in USA. Lara has a background in chemistry and studied plant and Soil Science and has a master’s degree in public administration in environmental science and policy from Columbia University. NRDC is a Non-Profit organization with more than 3 million members and online activists with the expertise of some 700 scientists, lawyers, and other environmental specialists to confront the climate crisis. Lara promotes soil health practices to address climate change through regenerative farming. At NRDC, she drives policies to protect water quality, improve water efficiency, and make farms resilient to climate change. The NRDC, a global environmental non-profit, leverages science, law, and grassroots power to tackle critical environmental issues and protect the planet's resources. In this episode, Lara explores regenerative agriculture's role in the U.S. agricultural system, the potential for large-scale adoption, and the necessary policy changes to support it. She also discusses financing shifts to regenerative practices, carbon credits, and how farmers can implement sustainable strategies for long-term soil health and climate mitigation.…

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27: Harnessing the Ocean's Might: In-Depth with SeaO2 Founders on their Mission to Capture a Gigaton of CO2 by 2035 44:51

hace 1 year44:51

44:51

Rose and Ruben co-founded SeaO2, an oceanic carbon removal company based in the Netherlands, with the ambitious mission to reduce CO2 concentrations in the ocean and the atmosphere, combating global warming. Rose, inspired by her PhD research on electrochemical oceanic carbon capture, partnered with Ruben, a serial entrepreneur with expertise in business consulting, to bring their vision to life. Along with their third co-founder, David Vermaas, they formed SeaO2, aiming to capture 1 Gigaton of CO2 by 2035. SeaO2’s innovative technology harnesses the natural flow of ocean water to capture and store CO2, using electrochemical processes to treat and decarbonize the water. This decarbonized water is then returned to the ocean’s surface layer, where it can absorb more atmospheric CO2. Their compact carbon capture plant can be plugged into existing ocean infrastructure, making it adaptable and scalable. The captured carbon is then stored, and SeaO2 sells carbon credits to companies to help offset their irreducible emissions. In this episode, Rose and Ruben discuss the technology behind SeaO2, the importance of oceanic carbon removal in addressing climate change, and the challenges they face in measuring and scaling their solution. They also explore the various possibilities for ocean-based carbon capture technologies, comparing SeaO2’s approach to other methods in the industry. Additionally, they dive into the regulatory and financial aspects of developing a new climate solution and their long-term vision for achieving global impact. With a focus on preserving ocean health and biodiversity, SeaO2 offers a promising solution for combating climate change while benefiting marine ecosystems.…

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26: BiCRS - How can biomass contribute to negative emissions in the future? A conversation with Stefanie Bischoff, Managing Director of Airfix 37:32

hace 1 year37:32

37:32

Stephanie Bischof, Managing Director of AirFix, shares insights into the growing field of Biomass Carbon Removal and Storage (BiCRS), a critical solution to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. With over a decade of experience in corporate finance, Stephanie transitioned into the climate field after being inspired by a documentary on soil health. Since 2022, she has been leading AirFix, a company focused on developing carbon capture infrastructure and creating markets for negative emission technologies in Switzerland and across Europe. BiCRS focuses on capturing and removing biogenic CO2, which comes from the combustion of biologically based materials, such as those from the paper industry, biomass power plants, and waste-to-energy facilities. Unlike fossil fuel emissions, biogenic CO2 is part of the natural carbon cycle. When captured and stored, it results in a net reduction of atmospheric CO2, making it an effective method for offsetting emissions in key industries. AirFix’s mission is twofold: to accelerate the growth of the BiCRS market in Europe and to remove 5 million tonnes of CO2 over the next 10 years. The company advises emitters on carbon removal strategies, connects them with specialists, and helps build the necessary supply chains. AirFix is currently working on its first major project, which aims to remove 21,800 tonnes of CO2 over the next 5 years. In this episode, Stephanie delves into the complexities of CO2 capture, including the logistical challenges and costs involved. She discusses the role of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) credits in helping companies meet sustainability targets and the regulatory landscape for carbon capture. The conversation also explores the potential of scaling the CDR industry, the challenges of transporting and storing CO2, and the broader market for carbon removal solutions. Stephanie shares her vision for AirFix’s future, providing valuable insights into how carbon removal technologies can drive real change in the fight against climate change.…

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25: Sustainable laptop? How Framework is Challenging Traditional Tech Industry Norms. Interview with Founder Nirav Patel 30:33

hace 2 years30:33