“Until people have reliable electricity, you can’t ask them to prioritise the environment.” That’s the reality, according to David Drew – former Coca-Cola sustainability lead for Africa – who joined The Responsible Edge podcast to share his unique perspective on the sustainability paradox facing the Global South.

Born and raised in Durban, South Africa, David grew up catching snakes in the garden and birdwatching in the tropics. His love for nature was sparked early, but his career took him deep into the world of plastics, business growth, and complex trade-offs. It’s this blend of personal connection with the environment and real-world commercial experience that makes his perspective on the current ESG landscape so sharply grounded.