Thanks to The Untangling Circularity Podcast, our December Sponsor. The Untangling Circularity Podcast tackles unanswered circular economy questions. Co-hosts Cynthia Power and Laura Novich, both experienced sustainability and circularity professionals, have identified topics they would like more clarity on, and by addressing these questions head-on and bringing in experts, they begin to bring shape to the answers.

In this episode, Kaitlyn Allen welcomes Derek Six, ClimeCo's Chief Operating Officer, and Nico van Aelstyn, a Partner with Sheppard Mullin. 

Listen as Kaitlyn, Derek, and Nico unpack California's Assembly Bill (AB) 1305, which requires sellers/marketers and buyers/consumers of voluntary carbon credits to disclose certain information on their websites. The climate-related law goes into effect on January 1, 2024, to increase consumer knowledge.

During their conversation, Nico and Derek clarify potential ambiguities related to this law, including what it means to 'do business in California' and how to prepare for its enactment. The information shared is a great 'crash course' for the upcoming changes in 2024. 

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Prepare for insightful episodes that ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Disclaimer: Neither ClimeCo LLC nor Sheppard Mullin are rendering legal advice or offering legal assistance by their participation in this podcast.

In this episode, Erika Schiller talks with Dan Diehl, Chief Executive Officer of Aircuity. Dan has over 25 years of industry expertise in commercial and light industrial building markets.

Listen along as Erika and Dan discuss how indoor air quality is an ESG issue that impacts business, health, and workforce productivity. Their discussion also covers systems that better manage HVAC and indoor air, which can significantly reduce carbon footprints and energy costs.

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Prepare for insightful episodes that ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Dan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-diehl-2a97114/ 

Erika’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-schiller-2773a52/ 

Aircuity Website: https://www.aircuity.com/ 

New York Times Article (requires subscription): https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/27/health/schools-indoor-air-covid.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Thanks to The Untangling Circularity Podcast, our December Sponsor. The Untangling Circularity Podcast tackles unanswered circular economy questions. Co-hosts Cynthia Power and Laura Novich, both experienced sustainability and circularity professionals, have identified topics they would like more clarity on., Band by addressing these questions head-on and bringing in experts, they begin to bring shape to the answers.

In this episode, Kaitlyn Allen talks with Cynthia Power, Founder of Molte Volte ("many times"), a company specializing in circular apparel. With over 16 years of experience in the fashion industry, Cynthia is an expert in her field, helping  and helps brands and retailers understand and navigate the circular landscape. Her company focuses on building and scaling resale and reuse programs, with a passion for extending the life of high-quality, durable goods.

Listen as Kaitlyn and Cynthia review three of the most pressing ESG issues for the fashion industry: materials, labor and supply chain considerations, and environmental concerns. They also discuss how circularity in fashion can drive job creation and customer loyalty, positively impacting the industry and the planet.

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Prepare for insightful episodes that ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Cynthia’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-power-24963513/ 

Molte Volte’s Website: https://www.moltevolte.com/ 

Untangling Circularity Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-untangling-circularity-podcast/ 

In this episode, Kaitlyn Allen welcomes Nicholas "Nico" van Aelstyn, a Partner with Sheppard Mullin, and ClimeCo’s David Prieto, Senior Director of Climate & Energy Advisory, to discuss the 2023 California Climate Accountability Act. 

The discussion highlights SB 253, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, and SB 261, the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act, which address greenhouse gas and climate risk disclosures. While these touch on similar ground as the forthcoming SEC ruling, there are distinct differences, notably related to Scope 3 reporting requirements. 

Nico’s legal acumen complements David’s expertise in greenhouse gas accounting, providing a well-rounded perspective. Together, this trio demystifies the practical applications of these regulations, offering valuable insights for companies seeking to understand and meet the impending requirements set to be enacted in the coming years.

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Prepare for insightful episodes that ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Blog on CA Climate Disclosure Laws: https://rebrand.ly/Climate-Disclosure-Laws-Blog 

Nico’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicovanaelstyn/ 
David’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidprieto1/

In this episode, Amanda Hsieh is joined by Arquella Hargrove, Chief Culture Officer at Alchemy Consulting Group. Arquella has 30 years of experience creating productivity-inducing practices in public and private sectors through coaching, diversity, equity, inclusion, HR management, leadership development, strategic planning, and organization development and was named one of Houston's Most Influential Women. 

The focus of this episode is on the platinum rule, which encourages us to treat others the way they want to be treated. Listen as Amanda and Arquella explore the pivotal role of inclusive leaders in fostering a workplace culture of belonging and discuss the traits of inclusive leaders.

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Prepare for insightful episodes that ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Arquella’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arquella-hargrove-79a92910 

Amanda’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahsieh1/ 

Alchemy’s Website: https://alchemy-consulting.com/  

In this episode, Amanda Hsieh is joined by Shireen Muhiudeen, Fund Manager and Author of We Are All Stakeholders. Shireen is a senior investment professional with 33 years of experience in emerging market investments and sustainability, which led her to found Corston-Smith, a responsible asset management firm, in 2004. 

Shireen's impressive career includes serving as the CEO of AIG Investment Corporation Malaysia and being the first female Chairman of the Stock Exchange of Malaysia. Her contributions to the industry landed her on Forbes Asia's 50 Power Businesswomen and Asian Investor's 25 Most Influential Women in Asia Pacific's Asset Management Industry. 

Amanda and Shireen are powerful advocates for diversity in corporate leadership, and their conversation focuses on the importance of women's representation on corporate boards. Shireen emphasizes the positive impact of diverse boards on business performance and encourages more stringent measures for board member selection.

We are all stakeholders in ESG and our voices matter. Learn more about this topic in Episode #84, Women's Panel: Fostering Gender Equality in the Board Room: https://youtu.be/LZGVX_YYEiI?si=QC7r3lVX2tyS0Jai

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Get ready for insightful new episodes that will ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Shireen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shireen-muhiudeen/ 

Amanda’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahsieh1/ 

‘We Are All Stakeholders’ book: https://a.co/d/d23yHlI 

Entrepreneur Magazine Highlights ‘We Are All Stakeholders’: https://rebrand.ly/Entrepreneur-Magazine 

In this episode, Kaitlyn Allen is joined by Darshita Gillies, the Founder & CEO of Maanch, a leading technology solution provider for asset managers and investors, revolutionizing the landscape of stewardship practices and sustainable, long-term value creation. In addition to being a globally recognized ESG and impact evangelist, Darshita is a chartered accountant, former investment banker, executive coach, and specialist in fintech and blockchain. She is a recognized ESG and Diversity Trailblazer and was honored as one of the world's 100 Most Meaningful Business Leaders, among many other accolades.

Listen as Kaitlyn and Darshita dive into the genesis of Maanch and how Darshita’s formative years, including her work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, inspired her entrepreneurship journey.

Globally, ESG assets now total a staggering $2.5 trillion. Maanch offers a software solution that captures data and provides insights for responsible investment stewardship–filling a gap in the market (no, it’s not another ESG ratings provider). This conversation highlights the impact of regional nuances related to the 'Governance' aspect of ESG. Darshita also reminds us that the approach to ESG investing reporting needs to be holistic, taking into account all stakeholders. 

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Get ready for insightful new episodes that will ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Darshita’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshitagillies/ 

Maanch Website: https://maanch-invest.com/

Whitepaper Resource: Decoding Effective Stewardship.

In this episode, Amanda Hsieh talks with Jeff Thomson and Shari Littan from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). Jeff led IMA for nearly 15 years, doubling membership and CMA certification holders while expanding globally to serve 140,000 members in 150 countries. Shari, Director of Corporate Reporting Research & Policy at IMA, is an innovator in accounting, corporate reporting, and business sustainability, driving thought leadership for IMA's members. Together, they discuss the crucial link between internal controls and sustainability for integrity and share a high-level overview of IMA’s role in supporting accounting and finance professionals. 

Much of their conversation focuses on the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and its credible framework for internal controls for financial reporting which is the basis of the road map for internal controls for sustainability metrics. 

Amanda also highlights the pending SEC climate disclosure rule and how COSO is exploring new supplemental guidance to help investors seeking trusted climate disclosures, with greenwashing remaining a significant concern. While COSO has been around for some time, the connective tissue to sustainability-related data and reporting is also generating excitement as it engages the next generation of accountants, even leading to the creation of new corporate roles such as ESG/Sustainability Controller. 

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Get ready for insightful new episodes that will ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

This episode celebrates Disability in Employment Awareness Month, acknowledging the valuable contributions of workers with disabilities and promoting inclusive employment policies, practices, and technologies that benefit both employers and employees. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are fundamental to our culture, encouraging all employees to leverage their unique perspectives and experiences to drive business growth and cultivate a culture where everyone and every idea is valued.

In this episode, Yvonne Harris talks with Kelly Klein and Cristen Reat of the Easter Seals of Greater Houston (ESGH), a leading non-profit dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities and supporting service members, veterans, and their families. Their mission revolves around transforming lives through therapy, training, education, and unwavering support so that people with disabilities can actively participate in our various communities.

Kelly has been with ESGH for 28 years and is pivotal in overseeing fundraising efforts, ensuring funds are available to assist over 14,500 families annually. Her connection to family members with disabilities fuels her passion for this work. Cristen is the Co-Founder and Program Director of BridgingApps.org, an ESGH program that provides valuable resources and education about apps and mobile devices. This initiative helps individuals with disabilities enhance their physical, social, and cognitive skills, ultimately reaching their full potential.

Listen as they discuss ‘common language’ for conversations related to disabilities and highlight a few of the services ESGH offers, including BridgingApps. Employers are encouraged to leverage the resources provided by Easter Seals in support of their efforts to recruit and develop employees with disabilities.

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Get ready for insightful new episodes that will ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

In this episode, Kaitlyn Allen and David Prieto of ClimeCo are joined by Jonah Wagner, Chief Strategist at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Loan Programs Office (LPO).

Jonah's expertise lies in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) implementation and scaling clean energy technologies, having previously worked at McKinsey & Company and the New Zealand Treasury. He also played key roles in organizations like Delterra and Piramal Water LLC, focusing on sustainable business development and infrastructure.

David, ClimeCo’s Sr. Director for Climate & Energy Advisory, specializes in helping companies transition to decarbonized business models, with a strong emphasis on climate risk, decarbonization strategy, environmental markets, and ESG disclosure. 

Listen as Jonah and David discuss the work of the DOE LPO related to clean energy deployment and industrial decarbonization projects. They delve into the DOE LPO's unique role in taking investment risks from demonstration projects to accelerate the deployment of climate technologies financed by the private sector. With an average of 1.5 new applications per week, Jonah provides insights into the process of applying for LPO funding and clarifies the concept of conditional commitments. Additionally, they explore topics like the Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment Program, Pathways to Commercial Liftoff, and ClimeCo's connection to the DOE.

Unlock the world of sustainability and join the ESG Decoded Podcast community! Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new episodes on your favorite streaming platforms, YouTube, and our social channels (linked below). Get ready for insightful new episodes that will ignite your passion for positive change. Tune in, engage, and let's decode ESG together!

Episode Resource Links

Monthly Application Activity Report: https://www.energy.gov/lpo/monthly-application-activity-report

Title 17 Clean Energy Financing: https://www.energy.gov/lpo/title-17-clean-energy-financing

Liftoff Reports: https://liftoff.energy.gov/ 

Jonah’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonah-wagner-49434215/

David’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidprieto1/

Careers at LPO: https://www.energy.gov/lpo/careers-loan-programs-office