#237 Using Robotics to Transform Recycling & Building Data Moats with Hardware w/ Rebecca Hu Thrams (Glacier)

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit climatecowboys.substack.comIn this episode:* How Rebecca Hu is using AI-powered robotics to revolutionize recycling and fix inefficiencies in waste sorting* Why proprietary physical data is the key to building a defensible AI business in climate tech* How new regulations like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) are reshaping the recycling industry—and how Glacier is helping brands adaptHave you filled out our Subscriber Survey yet? We’ve put in thousands of hours to create this project — won’t you spare 5 min to help us make the show even better? Rebecca Hu Thrams, co-founder of Glacier, is on a mission to transform recycling using AI-powered robotics and proprietary physical data to fix one of the biggest inefficiencies in waste management.Glacier isn’t just another AI company—it’s tackling the physical world problem of waste sorting, giving recyclers and major brands unprecedented visibility into where materials actually go. By deploying intelligent sorting robots, Glacier is not only increasing efficiency but also building a defensible data moat, positioning itself as the source of truth for the circular economy.With growing consumer demand for sustainability and new regulations like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) on the horizon, companies are scrambling for solutions. Glacier’s technology is bridging the gap between recyclers and producers—helping brands measure, track, and improve their sustainability efforts with real, actionable data.Get the full episode today to hear:✅ How AI and robotics are unlocking new efficiencies in recycling✅ Why proprietary physical data is the key to an enduring AI-powered business✅ How Glacier is helping major brands and recyclers prepare for new regulations✅ Rebecca’s journey from reluctant founder to leading a climate-tech startup✅ What the future of circular supply chains could look like with AI-driven insightsDon’t miss a moment! If you want to get the full discussion, become a paid subscriber today or redeem your trial upgrade to test it out. 📺 Watch on YouTube | 🍎 Apple Podcasts | 🎧 Spotify | 🗣️ Join the Slack Channel📝 Show Notes:Topics * 02:04 Founding Glacier* 05:54 Understanding Glacier's Role in Recycling* 14:12 Identifying Opportunities for Disruption in Recycling* 18:07 The Future of Recycling Efficiency* 22:08 Challenges in the Recycling Industry* 23:07 Navigating Risk Aversion in Robotics Investment* 24:43 Finding Early Adopters in the MRF Industry* 29:07 Advancements in AI and Robotics* 35:07 The Future of Connectivity in Recycling* 37:30 Collaborating with Industry Giants* 42:44 Scaling GlacierLinks* Rebecca Hu Thrams | Glacier * Connect with Somil on LinkedIn | Connect with Silas on LinkedIn* Follow CleanTechies on LinkedIn* This podcast is NOT investment advice. Do your homework and due diligence before investing in anything discussed on this podcast.