Ellie Baker’s early-years education company combines community-based lessons with low-carbon materials and digital tools, showing how small businesses in education are thinking creatively about sustainability and long-term impact. Ellie says, “We’re doing something small and local — but it connects to something bigger. We’re encouraging a love of languages. Helping families introduce their kids to other cultures from birth. That feels like a global mission.”

Founder Chris Howard explains how his company is innovating in sustainable construction by focusing on energy-efficient design and restoring historic buildings with low-impact methods. Their work illustrates how the construction industry can be part of the solution to climate change. Chris notes: “You have to think about sustainability from the very beginning. Energy efficiency, durability, water use, air quality, and sustainable materials—they all need to be part of the design conversation right from the start.”

Co-founder Simon Rolfe’s wine company is pioneering new packaging methods that reduce waste and promote ocean conservation. By creatively reusing materials and partnering with environmental groups, they’re setting an example for sustainable production in the food and drink sector. As Simon explains, “At the end of the day, it’s about people — growers, drinkers, charities — all coming together. It’s about knowing that your little bit, your glass of wine, can help make a difference. That’s what keeps us going.”

Mark Robertshaw, co-founder of Oxford Information Labs talks about his beliefs on how sustainability goes beyond the environment—it’s about people, stability, and long-term impact. Since founding the company with Emily and Lucien Taylor, Mark has helped to grow the business from a small start-up to a trusted global partner by prioritising ethical leadership, talent retention, and financial resilience. Building on the strength of their team, Oxford Information Labs has recently partnered with Google to launch the Global Signals Exchange – a platform that leads the global fight against scams and online abuse.

Pinky Laing, founder of The Remnant Revolution explains how you can run a successful and sustainable business using discarded luxury textiles and turning them into unique home fashion pieces. What began as an idea scribbled on a hospital bed has grown into a movement empowering refugee women with sewing skills to create beautiful, upcycled designs. By challenging fast fashion’s wasteful norms, The Remnant Revolution proves that sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s about people, purpose, and craftsmanship.

Philippine Mignot, Director of Tierra Viva, explains how her company is redefining olive oil production through regenerative farming. Faced with droughts in Jaén, Andalusia, she and her husband changed the way that they farmed their olive grove by focussing on restoring soil health and eliminating pesticides to prioritise quality over quantity. By overseeing every step from harvest to bottle, Tierra Viva produces organic olive oil that preserves both the land and its heritage—proving that sustainable farming can also be rewarding.

Adrian Geach talks us through his unique approach to traditional signwriting, blending time-honoured craftsmanship with eco-friendly materials and methods. By embracing sustainable practices, Adrian proves that even industries rooted in history can adapt to modern-day sustainability needs, contributing to both environmental goals and the local economy.

This episode Richard Morgan, founder of Electric Classic Cars, talks about how he has successfully merged his lifelong passion for vintage vehicles with a commitment to sustainability. By converting classic cars into electric-powered models, the business is leading a movement to make automotive history greener. Whether it's a classic VW Beetle or a Ferrari, Electric Classic Cars is reshaping what it means to drive vintage, whilst also managing to be both stylish and sustainable.

Dean Loury-Jenkins shares his journey from running a funeral services business to creating Celtic Roots Farm, a regenerative farm focused on local food security and environmental stewardship. Through innovative farming practices and a focus on sustainability, Dean showcases how small-scale agriculture can thrive while having a positive impact on both the environment and the community.

In this episode of The Sustainable Business Podcast, we hear from Hannah Egerton, owner of Edgie Eats Bakery, Hannah demonstrates the impact of local sustainability efforts. By sourcing local produce and implementing eco-friendly practices, Edgie Eats Bakery invests in community resilience, viewing sustainability as integral to the future viability of the business.