PODCAST · society
Sustainable Transformation
by Kiarne Treacy
In the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, we bring you honest conversations about the challenges and triumphs of sustainability transformations in business. Join us fortnightly as we unpack the ideas that drive change, decode the jargon and meet the visionary leaders reshaping their organisations for the better.
Episodes
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A simple choice could make your home 10 degrees hotter
Buildings account for almost a quarter of Australia's emissions and use more than half of our electricity. Yet most of us know more about the energy rating of our fridge than about the most expensive thing we'll ever own. In this episode, Kiarne sits down with Davina Rooney, CEO of the Green...
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The teenager who sued the government over climate change | Anjali Sharma
Can a government be legally required to protect young Australians from climate change? That question sat at the centre of a landmark Federal Court case, and it's one campaigner Anjali Sharma has been trying to answer since she was 14 years old. Anjali was the lead litigant in the case that first...
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The problem with Australia’s packaging
Most people's idea of sustainable packaging starts and stops at the recycling bin. That's the visible layer. Underneath it sits a fragmented system of state-based schemes, contested regulation, and on-pack claims that don't always hold up. Kiarne is joined by Pippa Corry, founder and director of...
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Where 4.5 Trillion Aussie dollars goes when we’re not looking
Most of us can tell you exactly what goes in the recycling bin, but very few of us could tell you what's actually inside our superannuation. And according to Estelle Parker, co-CEO of the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA), that gap matters more than almost anything else we do...
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How a Bondi dad is taking on the giants of the toxic cleaning aisle
Open the cupboard under your kitchen sink. Chances are you'll find a dozen or more cleaning products, each with a slightly different job and nearly every one carrying a warning about the chemicals inside. Koh co-founder Adam Lindsay didn't set out to build a brand people would talk about. He set...
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Companies have to report on climate now, but they don't have to fix anything
“I think it's probably the least bad system that we could have implemented.” James Tilbury isn't talking about Parliament. He's talking about mandatory climate reporting, the wave of legally required disclosures now landing from some of Australia's biggest companies. Kiarne Treacy sits down with...
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Fast fashion is a catastrophe, and you're part of it
“fast fashion is a topic that absolutely eats away at me. So I've got lots I want to get off my chest and lots I want to learn.” Kiarne Treacy's had enough of fast fashion, and today she’s starting with your last online order. She puts it to Danielle Kent, General Manager of Transformation at...
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Want to know what’s inside Dilmah’s family rule: success vs significance?
"The most selfless person I have ever met in business." That's how Kiarne describes Dilhan C. Fernando, Chairman and CEO of Dilmah Tea, after sitting down with him for this episode. Dilhan runs one of the world's best-known tea brands in the world, and by his own admission, he could triple…
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The Wild West of sustainability is over | Cool Planet’s Daniel Harper
Sustainability has shifted from a “nice to have” to a core business risk conversation. In this episode, Daniel Harper, Director of Cool Planet, unpacks what nearly 20 years of working in climate strategy has taught him about how businesses really move. From the early “wild west” days of carbon...
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How sustainable is the tuna on your shelf? | Simplot Australia’s Phoebe Dowling
What’s hot right now? Traceability. Transparency. Tinned tuna (seriously). Kiarne sits down with Phoebe Dowling, Director of Global Food Sustainability at Simplot. The powerhouse behind brands like John West, Bird’s Eye and Edgell to unpack what sits behind certification, fishing methods and the...
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Circularity only works if it pays | Big Bag Recovery’s Stephen Richards
What does it really take to make circular economy systems work at scale — beyond the theory and good intentions? In this episode of The Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Stephen Richards, Founder and Managing Director of Big Bag Recovery, to unpack the hard…
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Inside the 1% Model | Kate Williams, 1% for the Planet
What does credible environmental giving look like when it’s built into the way a business operates, year after year? In this episode of the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy is joined by Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet, to unpack how the 1% model works in practice — and…
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The Clean Up that changed Australia | Clean Up Australia’s Pip Kiernan
What started as one person refusing to look away has become one of Australia’s most enduring community movements. Kiarne Treacy sits down with Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia, to reflect on the legacy of a movement that has mobilised 23 million Australians over 35 years… and why the work...
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Decarbonising Australia Post: fleet, facilities and 65,000 people
What does meaningful sustainability look like when you operate in every community across Australia? In this episode of the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Richard Pittard, Chief Sustainability Officer at Australia Post, to unpack what real transformation looks…
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Cutting down trees is a good thing... Wait what? | Responsible Wood’s Matt de Jongh
Most of us grew up being told cutting down trees is bad. But what if the story is far more complex and in Australia’s case, completely misunderstood? In this episode, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Matt De Jongh, Sustainability Manager at Responsible Wood, Director at Forestry Australia, and a...
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What a 120-year-old bakery can teach us about sustainability | Ferguson Plarre’s Steve Plarre
What happens when a 120-year-old company bakes in sustainability for the next hundred years? In this episode of the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Steve Plarre, CEO and Director of Plarre Foods, home to the Aussie icon Ferguson Plarre’s Bakehouses. With a history...
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Travel that changes places and people | Intrepid
What if travel could restore the places we visit instead of harming them? In this episode of The Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Sara King, General Manager of Purpose at Intrepid Travel, one of the world’s largest B Corp travel companies and a global leader in...
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AI, Climate Risk and the Future of Energy | IBM’s Ravi Kumar Mandalika
What if the smartest technologies could also be the most human? In this episode of the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Ravi Kumar Mandalika, Utilities Industry Leader for IBM, to explore how digital innovation is reshaping energy, resilience and the way businesses...
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The Telco That’s Redefining Sustainable Connection | TPG Telecom’s felix mobile
What if your mobile plan could help the planet breathe a little easier? In this episode of The Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Rebecca Darley, Chief Marketing Officer at TPG Telecom, home to brands like Vodafone, TPG and felix mobile — Australia’s first...
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From science fiction to sustainable reality | Climate Salad’s Mick Liubinskas
What if fixing the planet isn’t about one big breakthrough, but ten thousand small changes? In this episode of The Sustainable Transformation Podcast, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Mick Liubinskas, Co-Founder of Climate Salad, a community accelerating the growth of Australia’s climate tech...
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How Waste Paint Became a World-First Idea | Paintback
In this episode, Kiarne Treacy welcomes John Ferraro, the CEO of Paintback, an independent product stewardship scheme (made up of the five biggest paint companies in Australia) dedicated to collecting and repurposing unwanted paint and packaging. And the best part of it all? Paintback isn’t...
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Inside the Mind of a Climate Strategist | South Pole Australia
Former petrochemical engineer turned sustainability strategist, Sonya Samson, has seen both sides of the climate challenge and knows how to turn lofty commitments into tangible results. In this episode, she joined Kiarne to unpack the dual priorities of decarbonisation and climate adaptation, why...
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The Environmental Cost of Digital Growth | First Focus
In this episode, Kiarne is joined by Ross Sardi, CEO of First Focus, to unpack the real and growing environmental footprint of tech. From the energy costs of AI to the unseen emissions hiding in the cloud, Ross gets honest about the industry’s challenges, and what can actually be done right now....
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What most businesses are missing in their carbon footprint (and how to get it right) | Climate Zero
Carbon reporting isn’t just about compliance, it could unlock a huge business opportunity if you get it right. In this episode, Kiarne Treacy chats with Tai Lennon, Managing Director of Climate Zero, to unpack what actually goes into your carbon footprint, and why most businesses are...
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Why Xero’s Betting Big on ESG | Xero
Carbon visibility, sustainable aviation fuel, and the rise of accountants as unlikely ESG heroes. In this episode, Kiarne sits down with Dr. Tamara Somers, General Manager of Sustainability and Impact at Xero, for a conversation about what it takes to lead real change in big business. Tamara is…
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Why sustainability could save (or sink) your business | &BLOOM Sustainability & ESG
Sustainability isn’t just a ‘nice to have’. It’s a strategic must-have for 2025 and beyond. In this episode, Kiarne Treacy sits down with Sydney Straver, Founder of award-winning ESG advisory firm &BLOOM Sustainability & ESG, to unpack what really matters in sustainability right now. From the…
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Turning trash into cash for Aussie homes and businesses | Envirobank Recycling
Did you know that you could get paid for your trash? You read that right - in some states in Australia you can redeem a cash incentive when you responsibly recycle eligible bottles and containers. And, they’ll collect it from your door! In this week’s episode, Kiarne Treacy speaks with Narelle...
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GS1 Australia | How the humble barcode could unlock complete traceability in the supply chain
In this episode, Kiarne sits down with Marcel Sieira, Chief Operating Officer at GS1 Australia, for a fascinating conversation about the humble barcode. Yes, you read that right! They discuss how the barcodes we scan on everyday products might be the most powerful tool on earth for complete and...
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Balancing health, community and sustainability on a global scale | with Ansell Healthcare
Think sustainability challenges are complex in your business? Now, imagine doing it on a global scale when the products you’re producing are quite literally, life and death! In this season-opener, Kiarne sits down with Catherine Stribley and Artha Salgado from Ansell Healthcare who represent the...
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Pablo & Rusty’s | Spilling the beans on the coffee industry
Did you know that your average Aussie consumes 1.83 kilograms of coffee per year? Or that Australians sip over 1 billion cups of coffee outside of home annually? Melbourne, in particular, boasts the highest number of cafes per capita in the world, maintaining its position as a coffee-hub of the...
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Runway Room | Uncovering the secrets of the beauty industry
The beauty industry has a dirty secret—it’s probably already in your bloodstream. This was the revelation that left Kiarne stunned during her conversation with Runway Room Founder and CEO, Alex Fevola. In 2012, Alex recognised a gap in the market for a beauty salon that offered reliable,...
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Polar Enviro | Could glow-in-the-dark technology change the world?
What does a 30-year career at Visy ‘growing up’ under the leadership of the Pratt family do to a person? In this episode, Kiarne sits down with Gus Carfi, the Executive Chairman at Polar Enviro to find out. Gus shares anecdotes of working for Visy and Richard Pratt, growing into the role of COO…
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Officeworks | How this retail giant is using their power for good, with Fiona Lawrie
Want to know how one of Australia’s largest retailers hit their 100% renewable energy target in 2024? Kicking off Season 3 with a bang, Kiarne sits down with Fiona Lawrie, Head of Corporate Affairs and ESG at Officeworks to break down the enormous responsibility major retailers have to shift...
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GloBird Energy | Are all energy retailers created equal?
Did you know that in an average Australian household, 32% of energy is used for heating and cooling, 27% for water heating, and 22% for appliances and lighting? (Source: State of the Energy Market 2023). In an industry that is constantly evolving and at a time when the cost of living is on top of...
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B Lab AANZ | Can Business Exist for Impact over Profit?
Are you seeing the Certified B Corporation stamp popping up on your social channels, or on the products you’re buying? Well, that’s no surprise! As of February 2024 there are over 8,000 Certified B Corporations across 162 industries and 96 countries, with 750 of those belonging to Australian and...
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Team Global Express | The Road to Sustainable Logistics with Heather Bone
In Australia, the transport sector makes up 19% of emissions, with the projection to become the largest producer of emissions by 2030. (Source). Fortunately, Team Global Express - formally known as Toll Global Express - has committed to tackling decarbonisation and improving sustainable…
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Good360 Australia | Transforming Surplus into Substance
$2.5 billion worth of brand-new excess goods end up wasted or landfilled in Australia every year, according to Deloitte Access Economics. To put this statistic into perspective, if this waste were a company, it would be the 6th largest retailer by market capital in Australia. (Source). Luckily,...
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City of Melbourne | It takes a City
By 2050, 70% of the world’s population will live in cities. So, what happens when these cities are affected by extreme weather events? Who’s responsible for ensuring we can adapt to changing conditions and become resilient in the midst of climate change? This week, Kiarne sits down with Co-Chief...
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | The role of AI in sustainability – Part 2
Did you know that using AI to generate a single image can use up as much energy as charging a smartphone? Or that some tech companies employ low-paid workers, including prisoners, to filter AI content? Behold, the hidden perils of AI. With innovation, always comes risk. AI is no exception. So…
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Sustainability Victoria | Striving for Circularity with Matt Genever
Circularity is not just a buzzword but one of the most important aspects of sustainable development in businesses and communities. This week, we’re joined by Sustainability Victoria’s Chief Executive Officer, Matt Genever who gives us a deeper dive into the topic of circular economies and shares...
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | The role of AI in sustainability – Part 1
Experts say that we’ve entered the fifth industrial revolution. An age defined by the rapid rise of human-machine collaboration. At the very core of this, is AI. It’s new. It’s here. It’s everywhere. It’s our society’s newest, latest shiny toy. And the potential is enormous. So what exactly can…
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | How to reduce food waste
Ever found yourself opening the fridge, finding uneaten food that’s gone bad, and throwing it away? Do you feel that you might be doing this more than you should? You’re not alone. Statistics say the average Australian discards about 312 kilograms of food items every year. Collectively, food…
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Volvo Cars | Driving a sustainable automotive future
Volvo Cars is setting the pace for electrification globally and even more so here locally with the ambition goal to be fully electric by 2026. Join Kiarne as she sits down with Stephen Connor, the Managing Director of Volvo Car Australia, the local arm of a global automotive business that has had...
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | What is circular economy?
Circular economy, or circularity – you’d have to be living under a rock if you haven’t heard this term before. Statistics say that only less than 4% of Australia’s economy is circular. It means that every year, as we create products and services to help us live our lives, we use up heaps of…
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | What you need to know about packaging in 10 mins
Packaging often gets a bad wrap when it comes to sustainability, it’s the first thing we see when we make a purchase and the first thing we throw away. The reality is that packaging is critical to life as we know it, it keeps food fresh, medicines safe and preserves products to ensure longevity…
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APCO | Change is coming for packaging in Australia and it’s time to get organised
In this episode, join Kiarne as she sits down with Chris Foley, CEO of APCO (the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation), as they dive into the evolving landscape of packaging regulations in Australia. As 2025 approaches, regulations are set to reshape how businesses approach design,...
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | Why your business should care about biodiversity
Let’s face it – we’re currently living through a massive extinction event. Nature loss is rapidly happening all around us, at a rate of knots. It has even been flagged as one of the biggest long-term risks for businesses, by global forums and experts alike. But the good news is, there’s still...
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Who Gives A Crap | How This Humble Loo Paper is Changing the World for the Better
In this episode, Kiarne chats with Elissa Foster. Having forged her career in sustainability for over 17 years at Patagonia, she is now the Global Head of Sustainability at Who Gives a Crap. Elissa shares the challenges and triumphs of leading the company’s sustainability strategy, reducing…
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | The ACCC stamping out greenwashing
This series is a must-listen for every business leader or individual trying to keep up with the ever-changing state of sustainability in Australian businesses. The ACCC is cracking down on greenwashing, but do you really know what that means? The sustainability landscape is changing rapidly for...
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SPOTLIGHT EPISODE | Tracking sustainability in the supply chain
Everybody is talking about scope 3 emissions tracking and traceability in the supply chain, but what exactly does that mean for you? In this episode Kiarne is putting a spotlight on supplier engagement for a sustainable future and the need for strong relationships with supply chain partners. The...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
In the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, we bring you honest conversations about the challenges and triumphs of sustainability transformations in business. Join us fortnightly as we unpack the ideas that drive change, decode the jargon and meet the visionary leaders reshaping their organisations for the better.
HOSTED BY
Kiarne Treacy
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How many episodes does Sustainable Transformation have?
Sustainable Transformation currently has 65 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Sustainable Transformation about?
In the Sustainable Transformation Podcast, we bring you honest conversations about the challenges and triumphs of sustainability transformations in business. Join us fortnightly as we unpack the ideas that drive change, decode the jargon and meet the visionary leaders reshaping their organisations...
How often does Sustainable Transformation release new episodes?
Sustainable Transformation has 65 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
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You can listen to Sustainable Transformation on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Sustainable Transformation?
Sustainable Transformation is created and hosted by Kiarne Treacy.
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