EP 9 - From Niche to Necessity: Transforming Businesses with Sustainability and Cross-Functional Leadership

For Episode 9 of Eco-Insiders, we had an insightful chat with Elisabeth van Ebbenhorst Tengbergen, a Partner at KIENBAUM. Elisabeth, an experienced executive search partner, shared her valuable insights on the sustainability maturity curve at corporations and emphasized the need for sustainability to move beyond compliance to impact every aspect of a business. It should become a strategic, long-term executive and board-level issue. Elisabeth highlighted the importance of having the right talent to drive change, defining roles, and determining what kind of talent to bring into the organization – from pioneers to those with transferable skills and generalists to specialists. It was an interesting conversation, especially when many of us in the Northern Hemisphere are experiencing record-breaking heat waves this summer. The cultural journey and the transformative process for organizations are key discussion topics.   Episode Breakdown: •  [00:00:00] Introduction of the episode and the guest •  [00:01:05] Understanding the systems •  [00:04:55] Maturity difference between B2B and B2C industries •  [00:05:57] ESG is not sustainability, and compliance is not being a sustainable business •  [00:09:20] Sustainability Maturity Curve •  [00:13:51] How has digitalization affected organizations? •  [00:16:26] Main qualities for sustainability leaders companies look for •  [00:19:14] Getting the right data and what to do with it •  [00:20:52] Governance and strategy •  [00:22:17] The knowledge gap in organizations •  [00:26:25] Having the right people and thriving in the organization •  [00:29:22] The culture journey and the transformative process •  [00:31:32] Elisabeth’s advice for mid-career professionals   Connect with Elisabeth Tengbergen: •  LinkedIn: Elisabeth van Ebbenhorst Tengbergen   Follow or Reach Out to the Show Hosts: James Loudon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesloudon/ Richard Zeng: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-weizhe-zeng-4baba1130/ Website: EcoInsiders Podcasts YouTube: EcoInsiders Email: [email protected]   Liked this conversation? Feel free to give us a five-star review on your podcast platform of choice and share the episode with someone who cares about making profitable business sustainable and sustainable business profitable. Ready to make your business greener? We’ve got three ways to help: workshops, innovation, and research. Whether you’re seeking fresh ideas, strategic guidance, or deep insights, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our hosts to learn more. EcoInsiders is produced by Asia Growth Partners (AGP): Asia Growth Partners  

In this episode, we sit down with Alia Malik, Chief Development Officer of the Better Cotton Initiative. Alia shares her journey from her upbringing and career beginnings to her role in shaping Better Cotton's mission. She discusses her approach to team building and accountability and the importance of people-centered evolution in organizations.  We also explore the role of technology, including AI and blockchain, in managing data complexity for traceability. Alia provides insights into the business ecosystems and technology providers working with Better Cotton Initiative and the fit between technologies and real-world challenges.  Finally, Alia outlines Better Cotton's sustainability targets and offers valuable advice for new graduates and mid-career professionals entering the field of sustainability. Don't miss this insightful conversation! Key Discussion Points: ●      Development and Evolution of Traceability Systems ●      Role of Technology in Sustainability ●      Better Cotton's Goals and Initiative   Episode Breakdown: [00:00:00] Introduction of the episode and the guest [00:01:00] Alia’s upbringing and career beginnings [00:03:00] Approach to team building and accountability [00:04:42] Importance of people-centered evolution in organizations [00:06:23] Better Cotton and its mission [00:09:20] Process of building a tracking and tracing system at Better Cotton [00:11:22] Mass Balance System at Better Cotton [00:13:00] Importance of accuracy in the traceability system [00:15:25] Initial resistance from stakeholders, including Better Cotton itself [00:16:00] Shift in legislative environment and pressure from retailers and brands [00:25:38] Auditing and material testing [00:27:00] Technology's role in solving data complexity in traceability, including AI and blockchain [00:30:49] Business ecosystems and technology providers working with Better Cotton Initiative [00:31:05] Fit between technologies and real-world challenges, and the limitations of startup technologies [00:32:26] Insights on the evolution of processes and technology adaptation within BCI [00:37:00] BCI's targets for 2030, including reducing GHG and pesticide use [00:40:41] Advice for new graduates and mid-career professionals entering the field of sustainability   Connect with Alia Malik: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/aliamalik Better Cotton Website: https://bettercotton.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettercottonorg/   Reach Out to the Show Hosts: James Loudon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesloudon/ Richard Zeng: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-weizhe-zeng-4baba1130/ Website: https://ecoinsights.com/podcasts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ecoinsiders Email: [email protected]   Liked this conversation? Feel free to give us a five-star review on your podcaster of choice and share the episode with someone who cares about making profitable business sustainable and sustainable business profitable.  Ready to make your business greener? We've got three ways to help: workshops, innovation, and research. Whether you're seeking fresh ideas, strategic guidance, or deep insights, we're here to help. Get in touch with our host to learn more.  EcoInsiders is produced by Asia Growth Partners (AGP): https://asiagrowthpartners.com/

In our latest Eco Insiders conversation, Richard and James discuss adopting sustainable habits individually with Boris Koenig, a certified "tiny habits" coach. Boris details the transformative power of small actions and habits in our daily lives. Moreover, we discuss the psychology behind habit formation, insights for fostering behaviour change, and some strategies for implementing sustainable living.   Boris Koenig is an experienced entrepreneur and consultant, leveraging over 20 years of global expertise in marketing and IT to drive positive behaviour changes through evidence-based scientific methods. As the Managing Director at BOSOO GmbH, Boris focuses on fostering corporate culture, enabling eco-friendly behaviours, and instilling healthy employee habits. He is a Tiny Habits® Coach, a Certified Digital Consultant, and a Miro Hero, committed to making success visible through small, manageable steps. Boris's career spans significant roles in IT and marketing, including a tenure as a startup entrepreneur and leadership positions at Pipelife International, showcasing a blend of strategic vision and practical execution in driving digital transformation and customer engagement.   Key Discussion Points: Identifying the tiny habits Designing effective programs for positive change Overcoming challenges and adopting new positive tiny habits   Episode Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to Boris Koenig and the Episode [03:55] Challenges of Sustainability at Corporate Level [06:17] The Focus of Tiny Habit Training [13:12] Corporate habits impact and strategies for practical training [16:33] Social, Governance, and Environmental Impacts [18:35] Training programs for sustainable habit [23:22] Reducing mobile phone usage temptation [35:41] Leadership role modelling the desired behaviours   Connect with Boris Koenig: Website: https://www.bosoo.at/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boriskoenig/   Reach Out to the Show Hosts: Website: https://ecoinsights.com/podcasts Email: [email protected]   Resource referred in the Show: Sinus Milieus https://www.sinus-institut.de/en/sinus-milieus

In this episode of Eco Insiders, we go on a learning journey inside the world of sustainable tourism with expert Sarah Habsburg. Boasting over two decades of experience, Sarah is a fervent advocate for responsible tourism, aiming to transform industry perspectives and practices. From her early travel inspirations across the Latin American continent and her journey to towards becoming a responsible tourism expert, she shares invaluable insights into making small and medium-sized hospitality businesses future-resilient.  Learn with us as Sarah outlines the critical role of education in combating over-tourism and the importance of customizing sustainability strategies to fit each unique business case.   Key Discussion Points: Initiatives for sustainable tourism Defining values and purpose in the hospitality sector   The synergy between education, marketing, and sustainability   Episode Breakdown:   [00:00] Introduction to Sarah Habsburg and the Episode [03:55] Exploring Tourism, Climate Change, and Sustainability in Chile [06:17] Discovering Sarah’s Moment of Inspiration [09:33] Navigating Sustainability within the Hospitality Industry [15:08] Educating Small Business on Sustainable Practices [19:55] Marketing Sustainability and Stabilizing Business Costs [24:21] The Importance of Business Values and Purpose [30:15] Enhancing Customer Experience through Sustainability [35:21] A Case Study   Recommended Resources   Sustainable Properties Referenced in the Show ·       Magda Hotel, Vienna: https://magdas-hotel.at/en/vienna-city ·       Crystal Creek Meadows, Australia: https://www.crystalcreekmeadows.com.au/   Corporate sustainability reporting in the EU: https://finance.ec.europa.eu/capital-markets-union-and-financial-markets/company-reporting-and-auditing/company-reporting/corporate-sustainability-reporting_en   EU Green Claims Directive:  https://www.europarl.europa.eu/thinktank/en/document/EPRS_BRI(2023)753958   Sustainability Dissonance: https://www.phocuswright.com/Travel-Research/Consumer-Trends/Sustainability-Dissonance-What-Travelers-Say-vs-What-They-Do-and-What-to-Do-About-It   Critical Questions in Sustainability and Hospitality: https://www.routledge.com/Critical-Questions-in-Sustainability-and-Hospitality/Legrand-Kuokkanen-Day/p/book/9781032111025   How to Create Sustainable Hospitality: https://mygreenbutler.com/sustainable-hospitality-book/   Connect with Sarah Habsburg: Website: https://www.sarahhabsburg.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhabsburg/   Reach Out to the Show Hosts: Website: https://ecoinsights.com/podcasts Email: [email protected]   Liked this conversation? Feel free to give us a five-star review on your podcaster of choice and share the episode with someone who cares about making profitable business sustainable or sustainable business profitable.        

In our fifth episode, we had the pleasure of welcoming Rafael Suchan, the co-founder of METYCLE. This innovative company is revolutionizing the scrap metal industry by providing a platform connecting buyers and sellers worldwide, making recycling more efficient. METYCLE is driving the global shift towards a circular economy in secondary metals through its efforts.   We learned that secondary metals are essential in reducing CO2 emissions by up to 95% compared to primary metal production. Rafael shared his insights into the critical role of digitalization in making the metal recycling industry work circularly. He highlighted the steps needed to create a more efficient, reliable, and transparent global marketplace.   Key Discussion Themes: How digitalization underpins circular practices in revolutionizing this sector. The evolution of the business model towards becoming managed marketplace. How using recycled metals as raw materials is crucial for sustainable metal production. Timestamped Outline: [01:33] – the business model pivot and the varying lifetimes of metals. [06:13] – the CO2 reduction impact of using recycled metals. [00:11:32] - market dynamics and future trends. [00:16:49] - early adopters of the marketplace model: critical factors for success. [00:25:43] - how the business case and circular proposition intersect. [00:31:54] - regulatory perspectives in the global metal recycling market. [00:37:06] - business growth and KPIs. [00:40:23] - advice for companies and the convergence of sustainability and digitalization.   Referenced in the show: https://www.iea.org/reports/steel-and-aluminium https://circulareconomy.europa.eu/platform/sites/default/files/euric_metal_recycling_factsheet.pdf Steel emissions and reduction potential from recycling: https://www.weforum.org/publications/net-zero-industry-tracker-2023/in-full/steel-industry-net-zero-tracker/#steel-industry-net-zero-tracker https://www.iea.org/energy-system/industry/steel Aluminum emissions and reduction potential from recycling https://www.weforum.org/publications/net-zero-industry-tracker-2023/in-full/aluminium-industry-net-zero-tracker/#aluminium-industry-net-zero-tracker https://www.iea.org/energy-system/industry/aluminium   Book recommendations Junkyard Planet: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/17286721 The World for Sale: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/52199304   Connect with Rafael Suchan on: https://metycle.com/   For commercial inquiries or podcast guest ideas: [email protected]   Follow the show on: www.ecoinsiders.org

In this episode, the spotlight is on Ramona Liberoff, Executive Director of PACE (Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy). Ramona is a seasoned expert in driving systemic change towards sustainable business practices. PACE is a collaborative platform uniting global changemakers and organizations dedicated to transitioning to a circular economy.  Ramona elaborates on her role in convening stakeholders, policymakers, and innovators to drive systemic change across various industries. This complex task involves what she refers to as 'systems acupuncture' – a targeted approach to unlock specific pathways for implementing circular economy strategies. She emphasizes that circularity, still in its early stages as a social technology, needs to bridge the gap from early adoption to widespread mainstream acceptance. Achieving this leap requires governments and regulators to establish appropriate policy incentives. These incentives are crucial for leveling the playing field, thereby catalyzing the acceleration of circular practices in the global economy.  Key Discussion Points:  Convening Change: The importance of bringing together stakeholders, policymakers, and innovators to foster systemic industry changes.  Complexity of Circularity: The challenges and strategies in moving circularity beyond early adopters to mainstream acceptance.  Systems Acupuncture: Identifying and unlocking specific industry opportunities to implement circular approaches.  Policy and Regulation: The critical role of government and regulatory bodies in setting incentives and frameworks to accelerate circular economy adoption.    Timestamped Outline:  [00:00] – Introduction: A day in the life of a systems changer.  [04:01] – Ramona's insights on PACE's community and its efforts in circularity.  [07:02] – Exploring circular system approaches with examples.  [12:42] – Focusing on critical minerals and their role in circularity.  [15:22] – The importance and impact of awareness campaigns for the circular economy.  [20:41] – The interplay between regulators and businesses in promoting circularity.  [22:13] – Rethinking our values and metrics for progress.  [25:18] – Practical steps for businesses to adopt circular practices.    Referenced in the show:  The Donella Meadows Project:  https://donellameadows.org/systems-thinking-resources/#:~:text=As%20Donella%20Meadows%20wrote%20in,a%20store%2C%20a%20quantity%20of  Katera Worth’s Dougnut Economics: https://www.kateraworth.com/doughnut/  Global Resources Outlook: https://www.resourcepanel.org/reports/global-resources-outlook#:~:text=Through%20a%20combination%20of%20resource,and%20remain%20within%20planetary%20boundaries.  The Limits to Growth: https://www.clubofrome.org/publication/the-limits-to-growth/    Find Ramona Liberoff and learn more about PACE:  Website: https://pacecircular.org/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramona-liberoff    Follow the show:  www.ecoinsiders.org   

In today's episode, we sit down with Rich Brubaker, the founder of Collective Responsibility. With over two decades of working and living in China, Rich has established himself as one of the leading pro-active and hands-sustainability experts. His firm, Collective Responsibility, is a Shanghai-based strategic advisory and sustainability strategy consultancy, advising multinational companies.   We dive into the various layers of organizational levers that drive sustainability, drawing inspiration from compelling case examples at Starbucks and Lego. We also explore the idea of addressing potentially small but real problems as a strategic entry point for companies looking to make a meaningful impact on sustainability, rather than trying to tackle the overwhelming challenge of global climate change all at once. Join us for an insightful conversation on how businesses can promote and embody sustainability in today's world.    Key Discussion Points:  How driving local initiatives will make more significant change happen over time  Innovation through failure: how embracing setbacks is key to progress  Exploring the sustainability efforts of multinational companies in China      Timestamped Outline:    [00:00] –Introduction    [01:55] –Rich’s work in Asia doing sustainability, CSR, and social innovation.  [07:07] - Multinational perspectives: Rich’s advice on sustainable practices.   [17:15] - Organizational dynamics: unveiling the four key layers for change.  [22:55] - Strategies to overcome mid-management hurdles.   [25:53] - The Lego Group: failure as a feature of sustainable innovation.  [34:48] - Interface: biomimicry in sustainable product design  [38:49] - Balancing authentic storytelling narratives with tangible problem-solving  [44:19] - Systems, raw material economics, and climate-driven inflation  [51:14] - Rich’s content recommendations for moving beyond broad strokes content.    Referenced in the show:  UN WWDR: https://www.unwater.org/publications/un-world-water-development-report  UN Migration: https://www.migrationdataportal.org/?i=stock_abs_&t=2019  McKinsey: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/sustainability/our-insights  BCG: https://www.bcg.com/capabilities/climate-change-sustainability/overview  Alan Watts on YouTube    Find Rich Brubaker on:   Website: https://www.coresponsibility.com/   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richbrubaker/      Rich Brubaker’s YouTube Channels  https://www.youtube.com/@RichardBrubaker  https://www.youtube.com/@Coresponsibility    Follow the pod:    www.youtube.com/@ecoinsiderspodcast  

In today's episode, we're thrilled to have David Hartmann, CEO and Founder of Helio Additive, a cutting-edge 3D printing software company, at the forefront of innovation in manufacturing. David and his team are pioneers in additive manufacturing, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with 3D printing technology. In this conversation, we dive into the transformative power of 3D printing, how it impacts sustainability, and the concept of decentralized manufacturing. We explore David's journey and the role of Helio Additive in scaling additive manufacturing processes and the future of sustainable manufacturing technologies.    Key Discussion Points: -          How scalable additive manufacturing can trigger a sustainable "flywheel effect" -          The industrial impact of Helio Additive's software on price and performance -          The future of decentralized manufacturing and community resilience   Timestamped Outline: [01:37]  – David's corporate background and experience at Covestro, at the heart of manufacturing and supply chains in Asia. [06:08]  – David's jump from a corporate career to becoming a deep-tech startup founder. [09:52]  – Discussing sustainability and the impact of scalable additive manufacturing through Helio Additive. [13:46]  – Introduction of Helio Additive's game-changing software in the additive manufacturing industry. [18:56]  – Sustainability as an intrintic part of value proposition. [23:43]   – The journey and challenges of founding and developing a deep-tech startup. [28:51]  – KPIs: balancing actual performance with fundamental principles [31:53]  – Case study on the digitization of trial-and-error processes in large scale additive manufacturing. [38:29]  – Future perspectives on the role of additive manufacturing to deliver community and infrastructure resilience. [43:06]  – Recommended reading    Referenced in the show: 1.         The Fifth Discipline by Peter Senge: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/255127 2.         The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson: The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson | Goodreads 3.         Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Taleb: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/13530973 4.         The effect of additive manufacturing on global energy demand by TU Delft: https://pure.tudelft.nl/ws/files/33032969/1_s2.0_S0301421517306997_main.pdf   Connect with today’s guest on: Helio Additive’s Website: https://www.helioadditive.com/ David Hartmann’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hartmann-725a2b16/   If you have research, strategy or workshop initiative, find the Podcast Hosts, James Loudon and Richard Zeng on: Eco Insights website: Sustainability policy insights, made simple | Eco Insights IoT ONE website: https://www.iotone.com/ James Loudon’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesloudon Richard Zeng’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-weizhe-zeng-4baba1130/   Email your feedback and ideas show to:  [email protected]

Navigating The Climate Change Century: Stress-Testing For The Future Our guest today is Henk Jelle Reitsma, the Founder of RiskSphere, a consultancy that's leading the way in bringing sustainability into the financial sector. RiskSphere is on a mission to help companies navigate the complex world of ESG, climate risk, and sustainability compliance.  In this episode, we explored the fascinating connection between profitability and sustainability, delving into the real-world challenges companies face when they adopt environmentally conscious practices. We also discussed the crucial role of stress testing and scenario analysis in navigating sustainability hurdles. Additionally, we shed light on how regulatory bodies have played a pivotal role in pushing for better ESG reporting in the financial sector. Key Discussion Points: How are companies truly transitioning to sustainability? How can stress testing and scenario analysis be adapted for long-term sustainability planning?   How can businesses balance profitability and sustainability?  Timestamped Outline: [00:00]  – Introduction [03:04]  – Moving sustainability to corporate forefront. [09:14]  – Starting RiskSphere [17:52]  – Stress-testing and scenario-analysis [30:40]  – Stakeholder alignment and chain responsibility [37:45] –  Greenwashing of skills, start-stop-continue method, upskilling your workforce [43:23] – Climate-change futures  Referenced in the show: ·       NGFS Climate Scenarios: https://www.ngfs.net/ngfs-scenarios-portal/ ·       The Art of Long View by Peter Schwarz:https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/247891 ·       The Good Ancestor by Roman Krznaric: https://www.romankrznaric.com/good-ancestor   Find Henk-Jelle Reitsma on: Website: https://risksphere.nl/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henk-jelle-reitsma-7850181/   Follow the pod: www.youtube.com/@ecoinsiders   Follow the host: www.twitter.com/ecoinsiders