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." 

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.

The following description was generated by AI :)

Join us as visionary serial entrepreneur Anna Alex takes us on an enlightening journey through her dynamic career. From co-founding Outfittery in 2012 during the early startup boom to her transition into sustainability-focused ventures, Anna's story is a testament to the power of following one's passion. Discover how her love for creating new businesses over managing established ones led her to leave Outfittery after six years and eventually innovate in the field of sustainability with Planetly, a pioneering carbon accounting company, and NALA, which measures corporate impacts on nature and biodiversity.

Explore the complexities Anna faced with the acquisition of Planetly and her perseverance in maintaining its mission-driven goals amid market shifts. We delve into her insights on the necessity of integrating purpose with profit and the emotional challenges of losing control over a company's direction. Through Anna’s experiences, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the tough yet rewarding path of sustainability entrepreneurship and the lessons learned from aligning visionary goals with business realities.

Furthermore, our conversation highlights the urgency and importance of sustainable practices in today's business landscape. Anna shares her thoughts on the shifting dynamics in climate and nature tech, emphasizing the need for data-driven strategies and the critical role of corporate responsibility. From tracing biodiversity impacts with cutting-edge data collaboration to addressing the "first-mover disadvantage" in sustainability, Anna's narrative offers a thought-provoking perspective on how businesses can both thrive and contribute positively to our planet. Join us for an inspiring episode that encourages entrepreneurs everywhere to embrace the transformative potential of sustainable innovation.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

Today's episode promises to be a fascinating deep dive into the science of sustainability and the future of livestock. 

Joining us today is Steve Meller, co-founder of CH4 Global, a company focused on reducing methane emissions from livestock—specifically, the burps and farts of cows. Yes, you heard that right! We’ll be discussing how a unique type of red seaweed can dramatically reduce methane emissions from the 1.5 billion cows around the world, contributing to a significant decrease in global greenhouse gases.

Steve shares his journey from a corporate career at Procter & Gamble to founding CH4 Global at the age of 58, driven by his passion for sustainability and his determination to make a real impact. We’ll explore the pivotal moments in his career, the challenges of scaling a startup in the climate tech space, and the innovative strategies his company is employing to make a difference.

So, if you’re curious about how we can address one of the biggest contributors to climate change through innovative thinking and technology, this episode is for you. Stay tuned as we explore the journey of CH4 Global and the exciting potential of reducing the impact of cow burps. Without further ado, let’s jump into the conversation with Steve Meller. Happy listening! 🌱🐄

The following description was created automatically by AI :)

What if you could revolutionize agriculture while significantly reducing greenhouse gases? Join us as we dive into Steve's incredible journey from a corporate career at Procter & Gamble to pioneering innovative solutions in sustainability. Inspired by American TV shows and driven by a passion for science, Steve transitioned from a career in neuroscience to becoming a key player in the fight against climate change. Discover how he leveraged his expertise to explore the potential of red seaweed, asparagopsis, in mitigating methane emissions from cattle, and the serendipitous moments that led him to this groundbreaking discovery.

Ever wondered about the real-life challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship? Steve opens up about the loneliness and relentless decision-making that come with building a startup from scratch. He shares how mentorship, personal inspirations like Steve Jobs and Roger Federer, and the unwavering support of his spouse have been crucial in navigating these hurdles. Dive into the nitty-gritty of Steve's entrance into the agricultural sector, the complexities of seaweed cultivation, and how his work is paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Curious about the future of sustainable innovation in agriculture? This episode delves into the financial and logistical hurdles Steve's company faced in scaling seaweed production, from designing cost-effective growing facilities to ensuring the product's efficacy. Learn about the economic benefits for farmers, the challenges of tracking methane emissions, and the potential for premium pricing on low-carbon beef and milk. Steve's optimism and dedication to making a positive impact offer an inspiring narrative on how innovative solutions can address pressing environmental issues. Tune in to explore practical solutions for a greener world and find out how you can get involved.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

🎙️ Today in SustainNow our guest is Kilian Kaminski: co-founder of Refurbed, one of the fastest growing marketplaces for refurbished products in the DACH region.

In this episode, Kilian shares the inspiring story of Refurbed, from its inception in 2017 with his two co-founders Jürgen Riedl, and Peter Windischhofer, to becoming a leading marketplace for refurbished products. Kilian talks about the challenges and lessons learned from expanding to new countries, the mindset of entrepreneurship, and the need for a failure culture. He emphasizes the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and the role of legislation in promoting sustainability. 

Kilian shares his personal journey from a stable corporate job to co-founding a startup in the sustainable space and what he recommends to other founders who want to follow his path. He also highlights the impact of regulatory changes, the fight against greenwashing, and the need for more sustainable business practices.

So, if you're interested in the future of the circular economy, and the importance of a mindset shift towards sustainability, this episode is for you. Stay tuned as we unravel the story of ReFURBED and explore the possibilities of creating a more sustainable and circular future.

 Happy listening! 🌱📱

The following description was generated by AI :)

What drives someone to leave a secure corporate job to launch a sustainability-focused startup? Join us as we explore this question with Kilian Kaminski, co-founder of Refurb, one of the DACH region's fastest-growing marketplaces for refurbished products. Kilian dives deep into his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the crucial role of a failure culture and the strategic decisions that have cemented Refurb's place as a top startup in Austria and Germany. With insights into the growing societal awareness around climate change and the influence of movements like Fridays for Future, this episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in sustainability and entrepreneurship.

Shifting gears, we tackle the paradox of Gen Z's consumption habits and the urgent need for sustainable electronics. Even as young people lead climate protests, many continue to patronize fast fashion giants like Shein and Temu. Kilian sheds light on how governments can step in with regulations to promote more sustainable practices in the electronics industry. We also explore Refurb's methods for ensuring sustainability, from rigorous partner selection to comprehensive impact analysis, and the broader implications of extending product lifecycles.

Finally, we discuss the future—achieving net zero and balancing profitability with sustainability. Kilian shares Refurb's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and contributing to environmental projects. He provides valuable advice for founders navigating today's challenging investment climate, emphasizing the importance of showcasing both economic and social impact. Don't miss Kilian's insights on the complex but rewarding journey of building a truly sustainable business.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

I'm excited to have Bas van Abel, the founder of Fairphone, with us today In this episode. Bas takes us on the journey of Fairphone from its humble beginnings as an awareness campaign to running the biggest crowdfunding at that time, to its evolution into a pioneering company striving for a systemic change in the smartphone industry. We will explore the core values driving Fairphone, including accessibility, demystifying technology and raising awareness about ethical dilemmas within the electronic supply chain. 

Bas shares his insight into the cultural transition towards sustainability, emphasizing the power of storytelling and an art in driving meaningful change. We will dive deep into the challenges facing the smartphone industry the importance of ownership, the right to repair, and the necessity for companies to disconnect revenue from resource consumption for sustainable growth. Bas also reflects on the personal journey of leadership within Fairphone and the vital role of recognizing when to pivot roles for personal well-being and organizational success. 

Join us as Bas shares his optimism for humanity capacity to address the climate crisis through social and cultural transitions. 

It was a very inspiring conversation which highlights the challenges to tackle and to embrace the opportunities from the path to sustainable. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation filled with entrepreneurial wisdom, passion and a vision for a more sustainable tomorrow.

The following caption has been generated by AI :)
 
What happens when you combine a passion for demystifying technology with a commitment to ethical supply chains? This episode brings you an inspiring conversation with Bas, the founder of Fairphone, who transformed an awareness campaign into a pioneering force in the smartphone industry. Discover how Fairphone's core values of sustainability, accessibility, and the right to repair are not just ideals but actionable strategies challenging the status quo. Bas's unexpected path to entrepreneurship will leave you rethinking the role of purpose-driven innovation in addressing the climate crisis.

Ever thought about what goes into making your smartphone? This episode unravels the complexities of building a device that connects us all, from supplier collaborations to the personal relationship we have with our technology. Bas offers a unique perspective on avoiding phone addiction while discussing the symbolic significance of smartphones as both personal and status objects. Plus, we dive into the appropriate age for children to own their first devices and reflect on sustainability as not just a buzzword, but a necessary investment in our collective future.

Can we achieve societal reset without catastrophic events? Closing this insightful episode, we explore the potential for global transitions driven by cultural change rather than technological fixes or legislation. Bas shares Fairphone's innovative business model, balancing sustainability with growth, and emphasizes the importance of mental health and shared responsibilities among startup founders. Tune in to hear about Fairphone's ambitions, market strategies, and the powerful role of storytelling in fostering a culture of resilience and sustainability.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

In this episode, we're taking a deep dive into the realm of energy storage with a particular focus on advanced battery designs.

Joining us is Paul, the visionary mind behind 8inks, a company committed to revolutionizing the lithium-ion battery manufacturing process. Paul will walk us through the challenges and opportunities in scalable battery manufacturing, and how 8inks is addressing the need for efficient energy storage solutions.

HIs journey into battery development began during his time at ETH Zurich, where he participated in a competition to build the best electric race car.  Later he conducted research on battery materials in California. 

This episode is for you, if you would like to understand more about battery technology, the evolution of lithium batteries and possible future applications. But it also highlights the limitation of lithium as an energy storage system. 

The following description is generated by beta AI :) 

Prepare to be energized as we journey alongside Paul from 8inks, who's sparking revolutionary changes in the world of energy storage. From his formative days at ETH Zurich to his groundbreaking contributions today, Paul shares the narrative of lithium-ion batteries – their rise to prominence and the art of perfecting cell selection. As we navigate the complex landscape of battery integration, Paul's insights illuminate the engineering conundrums and material science considerations that are propelling us toward a sustainable future. 

This episode isn't just about the 'what' – it's about the 'how'. Paul unveils 8INX's pioneering multi-layer curtain coating technique, poised to dramatically boost electrode structures and battery performance. Behind the scenes of battery production, we witness the transition from lab-scale innovation to the tantalizing prospect of mass production, which could ultimately slash manufacturing costs. Join us as we unpack these advancements that could redefine energy storage systems and set new benchmarks for the industry, all through the lens of 8INX's visionary approach.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

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, who is leading MuteBox's marketing efforts and joint the company almost from day 1, and Adil Sheikh, who is focusing on the design of Mutebox to reduce the carbon footprint. 

Together, they'll discuss how MuteBox is addressing the new hybrid working environment and at the same time reducing the environmental impact. 

MuteBox aims to provide sustainable, flexible solutions prioritizing employee satisfaction and acoustic optimization.
 
Christian and Adil will share insights into the company's vision and the challenges they face in creating greener and more hybrid workspaces.

Before we dive in, let's consider the importance of sustainable workspace design in reducing environmental impact. 6% of the global emissions is only contributed by energy consumption of commercial properties. Around 10-15% of the global emissions can be linked to office space if you include construction, furniture, energy and etc. 

So, if you're interested in sustainable workspace solutions, join us as we explore MuteBox's journey toward a greener future in the office space. 

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

In today's episode we will explore the world of scaling bioeconomy to replace 50% of petrochemical products in the future. That is the bold vision of Synonym, a company dedicated to accelerating the transition to better, more sustainable materials through bioproducts.

Joining us today is Joshua Lachter, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Synonym. With a background in finance, Joshua brings a different perspective to the world of biomanufacturing, and he's here to shed light on the potential of fermentation and its role in revolutionizing our daily products from food, over chemical products such as Lubricants or fibers to special chemicals like enzymes or plant-based proteins.  

Synonym's mission is to create a new green asset class - a bioeconomy asset class  to enable the commercialization and manufacture of bioproducts. Joshua will walk us through the company's vision, the challenges they're addressing, and the partnerships they're developing to scale bioproducts on industry scale. 

But before we dive into the details, let's take a moment to understand the magnitude of the problem Synonym is trying to tackle. From the high cost of production to the limitations of available current fermentation infrastructures, Joshua will guide us through the complexities of the biomanufacturing landscape and highlight the urgent need for scalable solutions.

So, if you're curious about the future of sustainable materials and the pivotal role of bioproducts in driving this transition, you won't want to miss this episode. 

The following description was generated with AI :) 

Embark on a transformative exploration into the bioeconomy with Joshua Lachter, Synonym's visionary co-founder, as we discuss the bold ambition of biologically revolutionizing the materials of our everyday lives. Discover a world where nature's ingenuity provides us with everything from biodegradable cups to complex, spider silk-like proteins, all while treading lightly on the planet. Our conversation with Joshua shines a light on the potential for biomaterials to not only replace petrochemical products but also enhance their functionality, offering a glimpse into a future where sustainability and superior performance go hand in hand.

As we wade through the intricacies of scaling biomanufacturing, Joshua from Synonym reveals the strategic moves and digital tools, like Capacitor and Scaler, that are poised to accelerate the growth of companies from fledgling startups to industry heavyweights. This episode peels back the layers of precision fermentation's vast applications beyond food, touching on the creation of polymers, resins, and synthetic methane. It's a peek into the colossal efforts being poured into building an infrastructure that supports the escalating demand for bio-based goods.

Finally, we explore the landscape of standardizing equipment and mobilizing financing in the synthetic biology sector. Learn how Synonym's journey, from a simple stroll in the woods to forging alliances with industry magnates like Anderson Horowitz, is paving the way for synthetic biology to reshape American manufacturing. This episode connects the dots between the creation of a flexible, standardized platform for synthetic biology companies and the innovative financing strategies that might just be the key to unlocking commercial-scale production. Join us to understand how Synonym embodies the pioneering spirit needed to nurture an industry that could redefine our material world.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Philippe Birker, co-founder of Climate Farmers. This company is on a mission to revolutionize agriculture by building the necessary infrastructure to scale up regenerative practices. How? By developing an ecosystem measurement system that serves as a baseline for financing the transformation to regenerative farms.

Before Philippe ventured into the realm of regeneration, he spent five years dedicated to business and community development for various impact startups. But here's a fascinating tidbit about him – Philippe also holds the record in fire breathing. Curious? Well, you'll hear more about it in this episode.

Let's dive into the numbers: In 2020, EU farms utilized a staggering 157 million hectares of land for agricultural production, accounting for 38% of the total land area. It's noteworthy that the majority, a whopping 94.8%, of these farms are family-owned. However, agriculture also contributes to 26% of our yearly worldwide emissions.

Climate Farmers is aiming to transform every farm into a profitable and regenerative one. This episode is a must-listen if you're eager to grasp the essence of regenerative agriculture, understand why our food has lost significant nutritional benefits, and explore the necessary changes in policies, financing structures, why carbon financing is not enough, and overall perception towards farmers.

Get ready for a deep dive into the world of sustainable farming and discover how Climate Farmers is paving the way for positive change. Happy listening!

The following description was generated by AI :) 

Ever wondered if the soil beneath our feet could be a hero in the climate crisis? Philipp Birker, co-founder of Climate Farmers, joins me to reveal how regenerative agriculture offers not just hope for the planet, but also a financially sustainable future for farmers—especially the youth seeking to sow seeds of change. Together, we unravel the complexities farmers face, from economic barriers to policy labyrinths, while also celebrating Philipp's record-breaking prowess in fire-breathing, a testament to his multifaceted journey as an eco-warrior.

Strap in for an eye-opening tour of farming's future, where we scrutinize our current yield-focused model that sidelines the well-being of our environment. Philipp and I dissect the transformative potential of regenerative agriculture—a method that cherishes rhythm with nature, enriching our soils, preserving precious water, and fostering a biodiversity haven. Delving into the Climate Farmers Academy, we spotlight how education and financial incentives are vital in encouraging farmers to cultivate change, emphasizing that proper agricultural policies and support are key to valuing environmental stewardship.

We wrap up this enlightening conversation with a deep dive into the innovative concept of carbon credits, dissecting the evolution from a carbon-centric approach towards a holistic ecosystem regeneration system. Philipp walks us through the intricacies of compensating farmers for carbon capture in soil and looks beyond, to a future where food production nourishes both our bodies and the planet. Join us to gain a fresh perspective on how every choice we make at the dinner table or the ballot box can be a step towards a regenerative and resilient agricultural landscape.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

In today's episode, I am speaking to Doris Hafenbradls, CTO and Managing Director of Electrochaea. Doris has enjoyed a successful career as scientist and corporate executive in the biotech and pharma industry in the US and Europe. She joined Electrochaea from Axxam, a leading provider of integrated discovery services for the life sciences industry, where she was responsible for the company's discovery services activities. Doris dedicated her doctoral research in mircobiology to the study of the microorganism archaea at the University of Regensburg.

What does Electrochae produce? The company converts renewable energy (solar and wind) and the industrial waste product carbon dioxide into grid-quality synthetic Methane with the goal to replace natural gas as energy source and storage. They use Archaea - an ancient, single-celled microorganisms that survive in extreme conditions to synthesize methane. 

In May 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) released its roadmap to help the world get to net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. Net Zero by 2050 recommends a baseline target of 10 percent for synthetic methane in the natural gas flow by 2050.

The company has been founded in 2014 by Dr. Laurens Mets, Professor at the University of Chicago, and Mich Hein. They have 3 pilot plants up and running and now raising for the next round to expand. 

I learned a lot in this conversation about the power to gas principle and the technology behind. This episode is something for persons who are interested in renewable energy, carbon capture and utilization and the circular economy of carbon dioxide. 

The following description was generated by AI :) 

Discover how the invisible power of microorganisms can revolutionize our energy systems as Doris Hafenbradl of Electrochaea unveils the potential of renewable synthetic methane. In an era crying out for sustainable solutions, we're joined by an expert who is turning the tables on traditional energy storage and utilization. Harnessing the ancient prowess of archaea, Electrochaea's technology is not just a beacon of innovation but a pragmatic bridge to a greener future, syncing the ebb and flow of renewable energy production with our insatiable demand.

This episode is a journey through the environmental and economic impacts of a truly transformative technology, with real-world applications already taking root from Denmark to Maine. As we explore with Doris, the process of repurposing excess renewable energy into a viable, storable commodity is not merely a theoretical marvel but a practical stride towards a circular economy. Synthetic methane stands poised to redefine energy intensity and costs, proving that the green premium is a small price to pay for a sustainable and carbon-conscious future.

We wrap up with a candid discussion about the hurdles and prospects within the renewable gas market. Doris guides us through the maze of regulatory requirements, the importance of subsidies, and the potential of voluntary markets, sharing Electrochaea's achievements and aspirations. Their innovative 12-megawatt project in Denmark and ongoing feasibility studies in Canada underscore the scalability of this venture. It's a conversation that leaves us optimistic about a future where synthetic methane could become the norm, providing a cleaner and renewable alternative to fossil fuels.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]

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, protect the planet's wildlife and wild places, and to ensure the rights of all people to clean air, clean water, and healthy communities.

In this podcast we talk about regenerative agriculture and how policy and subsidies are driving the transition to regenerative agriculture. In this short episode, we take a look at USA farmers and what needs to change to drive the industry to be more sustainable. 

The following description was created automatically by AI :) 

Do you want to get a fresh perspective on regenerative agriculture? Then you don't want to miss my conversation with Lara Bryant, the Deputy Director of the Nature Resource Defense Council (NRDC). Lara brings to light the fascinating world of regenerative agriculture and the NRDC's mission. We explore the significance of soil health, and how the U.S. federal crop insurance program could be revamped to reward farmers who prioritize it. 

Imagine an agricultural world where the transition to regenerative practices is supported by policy and resources. We discuss this and more as Lara shares findings from her study with 115 U.S. farmers. We lay out the groundwork for cultivating the next generation of farmers, focusing on providing them with essential resources such as loans, health insurance, and retirement savings. We dive into the complexities of regenerative agriculture, comparing it to organic farming and discussing the regenerative organic certification.

Finally, we explore the challenges of regenerative agriculture, the potential of carbon credits, and the exciting prospect of policy changes to support more farmers in this transition. Lara reflects on how her theories on agriculture have transformed over the years and gives her insights on the percentage of American farmers already practicing bio or regenerative farming. So, put on your headphones and tune in to this compelling conversation about the future of agriculture, soil health, and how you can get involved with the NRDC. You're sure to learn something new!

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: [email protected]