Going Zero

Welcome back to Going Zero, the sustainability podcast for leaders making a difference. In this episode, we sit down with two industry powerhouses leading the charge in corporate hospitality and sustainability: David Mesagno, Executive Director, Amenities Services Lead, and Peter D’Angelo, North American Head of Global Hospitality Services. Both guests bring decades of experience on both the client and vendor side of food services, sharing their journeys from the restaurant world to steering sustainability initiatives at two of the world’s largest financial institutions.This conversation dives into how sustainability has evolved from removing styrofoam cups to becoming a baked-in expectation at the corporate level, with clients now demanding innovative solutions from their partners rather than simply checking boxes. David and Peter explore topics like food waste management, single use reduction, the challenges of local sourcing, measuring real impact, and the pivotal role food and amenities play in shaping company culture and recruitment. You’ll also hear insights on partnering with disruptive vendors, piloting new technologies, and the importance of telling your sustainability story to employees.Stay tuned for an open, forward-thinking discussion packed with real-world strategies, lessons learned, and actionable advice for organizations looking to lead on sustainability and redefine the workplace experience.

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, the podcast where we delve into the people, innovations, and big ideas shaping the journey to zero waste. Today, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of trash—literally—with Joe Dinardi-Mack, co-founder and CEO of Sourgum. As a fourth-generation recycling professional whose family has spent more than a century in the industry, Joe is uniquely equipped to talk about both its storied past and its tech-driven future.Join hosts Seth Combs, and Eric Pasewalk as they unpack Joe’s journey: from growing up around trucks and transfer stations to launching a company that’s redefining how thousands of businesses handle waste and recycling. You’ll hear firsthand how Sourgum is tackling outdated practices, bringing much-needed transparency, efficiency, and sustainability to a notoriously fragmented industry—and what that really means for customers, the environment, and local haulers.Whether you’re curious about why less than 10% of recyclables actually get recycled, frustrated by price opacity and unreliable service, or wondering how new tech and policies are reshaping waste management, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the real challenges and the transformative solutions in play. If you want to learn how data, empathy, and technology are driving the zero waste movement forward, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of composting and the circular economy with Tom Rohr, founder of Food Loops in northwest Arkansas. Listen in as Tom Rohr shares his journey from corporate America to sustainability entrepreneurship, reveals the challenges and rewards of tackling food waste at scale, and explains how strategic partnerships are helping to shift entire communities toward a zero-waste future. You'll hear firsthand stories from large-scale events, learn common misconceptions about composting, and get inspired to take action—whether you’re an individual or a multinational company. If you're passionate about closing the loop on waste and building a greener future, this episode delivers actionable insights and true stories of impact.Going Zero is proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, the leader in sustainable solutions for foodservice, janitorial, packaging, and more. For more info, visit EmeraldEcovations.com.

Welcome back to the Going Zero Sustainability podcast! This week, host Seth Combs is joined by industry veteran Jim Green, whose four-decade career has helped shape the modern food service ecosystem. In this episode, Jim Green shares his journey from falling into food service in the 1980s to becoming a key coordinator for change, leading initiatives like the Agora Sustainability Leadership Team and the Optimize Ecosystem Team.Together, they dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing operators, manufacturers, and the crucial "middleman" network that defines today’s food service landscape. Whether it’s tackling sustainability, driving innovation in supply chains, or empowering community action, you’ll hear insights and stories from the front lines — plus practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference in their workplace or their local environment.Tune in to learn how on-premise food service operators are changing the narrative around sustainability, collaborating across industries, and proving that individual action can create sweeping impact. If you’re passionate about sustainable solutions and curious to hear from those driving real change in food service, this episode is for you!

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, the podcast where we dive into real-world solutions to today’s toughest sustainability challenges. Our hosts, Christy Cook, Eric Passwalk, and Seth are joined by Amielle Lake, CEO of Carbonet, a company pioneering innovative chemistry to help industries recover, reuse, and waste less water—while dramatically cutting down on fossil fuel-based chemicals.In this episode, Amielle shares her unique journey from digital marketing to sustainability entrepreneurship, and sheds light on the looming threat of global water scarcity. You’ll hear how Carbonet’s breakthrough technology is helping thousands of manufacturers, municipalities, and oil and gas operations treat wastewater more sustainably and cost-effectively—no environmental premium required.We’ll dig into why water remains an underappreciated resource, the barriers to widespread adoption of new water tech, and the challenges of shaking up a multi-billion dollar chemical “cartel.” Plus, Amielle highlights Carbonet’s real-world impact stories, talks about safety improvements for workers, and discusses her work advancing women's representation in clean tech and investing through the Women’s Equity Lab.Whether you’re a sustainability manager, a CEO, or just curious about how chemistry can help secure the future of our most vital resource, this episode will inspire you to rethink what’s possible—and the role every stakeholder can play in driving change.

This week, we're sitting down with Stephen O'Brien, formerly of the NY Dept of Education, to discuss driving healthy choices and sustainable solutions to a massive audience - 1.1 million students. If you’re looking to drive real change—especially in education—Stephen O’Brien’s approach offers a playbook for creating measurable impact in even the biggest organizations. Here’s what you can learn from his experience leading sustainable food service transformation:3 steps for successful, sustainable change:**Step 1: Start with pilots, not mandates.**  Stephen didn’t try to overhaul everything at once—he launched small experiments like “Trayless Tuesdays” and salad bar pilots. Success with these prototypes gave him proof of concept and protected him from big, costly failures.**Step 2: Build coalitions—especially with your end users.**  Lasting change came because he listened to students, staff, nonprofits, and policymakers, using their feedback to design solutions that actually worked for them. When students asked for better serviceware, he collaborated *with* them, not *for* them.**Step 3: Use scale as leverage, not just as a challenge.**  Stephen pooled buying power through the Urban School Food Alliance. By aggregating demand, he negotiated better contracts for compostable plates and locally sourced food, making sustainable options affordable even in a giant system.You may not be running the nation's largest school cafeteria, but you can always start smaller, test, scale, and invite others into the journey. Sustainable change is never solo work—and your allies may be waiting where you least expect them (including your youngest “customers”).

On the latest episode of Going Zero, hosts Christy Cook, Seth, and Eric sat down with Dominique Hadad, the founder of Green Scope Consulting. Unlike many established industry veterans, Dominique represents a powerful new generation in sustainability—young, bold, and determined to drive meaningful change from the ground up.Dominique’s story begins with her Caribbean roots, where first-hand exposure to climate change impacts in Trinidad and Tobago created a deep awareness and resolve. In college at The Ohio State University, Dominique studied industrial engineering and soon found herself immersed in systems thinking—not just from textbooks but through real-world experience.Some fun facts from the episode:Dominique Hadad started her business right out of college, supported by winning Ohio State’s President’s Prize and a pitch competition—even though she didn’t see herself as an entrepreneur at first.Dominique helped a local Columbus restaurant achieve over 90% waste diversion, making it functionally a zero-waste restaurant (and she “had to” eat their food during the process!).Dominique crocheted a robot while studying engineering, earning her “engineering star”—but she was always more interested in connecting people and systems than building things.As the conversation turns to the broader future of sustainability, Dominique observes a growing movement towards transparency and authenticity—especially among young professionals. Where once degrees in sustainability were rare, now they are proliferating, creating a richly diverse talent pool. She notes, too, that diversity must include age and difference in thinking—because innovation often comes from those who see the world differently.

Ever wondered how manufacturing efficiency tools like Lean Six Sigma can actually help save the planet? This episode of @GoingZero dives deep into this topic — and trust us, the ideas here are for ANY org trying to cut waste & boost impact.Meet Brion Hurley, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. His mission: use process improvement for good — social & environmental. Brion led a Six Sigma project to slash electricity use at a massive facility. By digging into utility data & piloting smart HVAC controls (with a clever override button!), they saved $200k+ AND cut emissions.

We’re back with a fresh episode, packed with real-world sustainability lessons straight from the source! This time, Christy, Seth, and Eric sit down with Brian Nash, Vice President of Corporate Sustainability at Ingredion—the Fortune 500 ingredient solutions powerhouse behind brands you know (and probably some you don’t).Brian shares his remarkable journey from environmental health and safety into leading sustainability at Ingredion. He opens up about the company’s evolution toward embedding sustainability into its core strategy, from measuring its impact through cost control, risk mitigation, and brand enhancement, to creating real value through transparency and systems thinking.Together, they unpack the complexities of global supply chains, the importance of transparent reporting, the realities of climate risk, and the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability education and careers. Brian even offers poignant advice for today’s business leaders and aspiring sustainability professionals on driving meaningful change—reminding us all that perfection shouldn’t stand in the way of progress.

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero podcast, where we dive into the real-world challenges and bold solutions shaping the future of sustainability. In today’s episode, host Christy Cook is joined by Mike Wrathall, an sustainability strategist who’s helped organizations across sectors—from social housing to defense—navigate complexity and accelerate their impact on the environment.Mike shares his journey from a childhood passion for recycling to leading sustainability and climate strategy efforts at major firms like Deloitte. We’ll uncover how agile methodologies, often associated with software development, are transforming traditional business models, enabling organizations to adapt, innovate, and make sustainability central to their mission. Mike brings us behind the scenes of organizations that have reinvented themselves, including a charity that spun out a for-profit enterprise and the Formula 1 powerhouse McLaren’s shift toward circularity.Whether you’re running a business, working in government, or simply passionate about driving positive change, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Mike explains why seeing sustainability as an opportunity—not just a compliance hurdle—unlocks new avenues for growth, cost savings, and resilience. Plus, he offers real steps for anyone looking to integrate agile thinking into their sustainability journey.

Welcome back to Going Zero, proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations! In today's episode, we're joined by Marjory Wildcraft—the dynamic founder of The Grow Network and a recognized leader in the survival and preparedness movement. Featured by National Geographic as an expert in off-grid living and known for inspiring hundreds of thousands to start backyard gardens, Marjory takes us on her remarkable journey from electrical engineer to passionate advocate for self-sufficiency and homegrown food.Listen in as Marjory reveals the wake-up call that changed her path, her firsthand experiences with the daunting realities of our food system, and the practical, empowering steps anyone can take—no matter where they live—to grow half of their own food in surprisingly small spaces. She dives deep into the importance of soil health, composting, raising backyard chickens and rabbits, and busts some of the biggest myths about gardening and self-reliance. Plus, Marjory shares her hopeful vision for a regenerative, community-driven food future, and her advice for individuals and businesses ready to join the movement.Whether you're a city dweller with only a balcony to spare or someone dreaming of a rural homestead, this episode is packed with inspiration, concrete action steps, and Marjory’s contagious passion. Stay tuned for a conversation that will motivate you to dig into self-sufficiency and rethink what’s possible in your own backyard!

In this week’s conversation, we sit down with Kai Robertson, a leading sustainability expert with decades of experience working alongside food industry giants like Walmart, Unilever, and McDonald’s, as well as global organizations such as the World Resources Institute and WWF. *This episode is proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, offering sustainable food service, facility, and packaging supplies for your business.*Kai unpacks the complex web of sustainability challenges facing our food system—from the concept of our “food print,” to the impact of food waste, water usage, and the mounting pressures of feeding a growing global population. You’ll hear honest insights into common misconceptions about food scarcity, the hidden environmental costs of what ends up on (and off) our plates, and simple actions businesses and individuals alike can take to push for meaningful change.With anecdotes from personal experience and industry analysis, Kai cuts through the noise and offers a practical framework: act, advocate, and ask. Whether you’re a consumer, a business leader, or just someone curious about the future of food, this episode will inspire you to think differently about the true impact of what we eat—and what we waste. So get ready for an eye-opening discussion on creating a more sustainable food future, one choice at a time.

This week, we're diving into the complex and often confusing world of food waste with our special guest, Rachael Jackson. Did you know that nearly 40% of food in the U.S. ends up as waste, much of it from our own kitchens? As part of Food Waste Prevention Week, we're talking with an expert. As always, we're proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, bringing you sustainable solutions for your business, including tree-free, compostable coffee cups, cutlery, paper towels, and more. In this episode, you'll learn how misconceptions around expiration dates and uncertainties about food safety lead to perfectly good food being thrown out. Rachael, a journalist and food waste educator, is on a mission to change how we think about food waste. She's also the founding editor of eatortoss.com, an award-winning website that helps millions make informed decisions about whether food is safe to eat or should be discarded. We’ll play a game that challenges us to look beyond appearances and understand the science behind when to eat or toss food. Whether you're trying to save money or make more sustainable choices, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. Join Seth and co-host Christy Cook as they navigate through common misconceptions and tips on reducing food waste. Let's get curious and make more conscious decisions in our kitchens!

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero Podcast, where sustainability takes center stage. In this episode, titled "Food Waste Prevention Week 2025," we host an engaging discussion with two experts, Elaine Fiore and Elaine Blatt. Our guests bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table as they explore the staggering impact of food waste on our environment, economy, and society. Did you know that around 40% of the US food supply is wasted each year, contributing massively to greenhouse gas emissions and economic loss? Join us as Elaine and Elaine share inspiring solutions, strategies, and success stories aimed at reducing food waste. We dive deep into behavior change, the power of community collaboration, and practical actions that both individuals and businesses can take today. Whether you're interested in the environmental, financial, or social aspects of sustainability, this episode will equip you with valuable insights and motivate you to make a difference. Let's embark on this journey towards minimizing our food footprint together! Proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations.

In this episode of Going Zero, we explore the transformative concept of regenerative agriculture with the Doctor Janel Louise Ohletz. We're proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, sustainable solutions for your office, including foodservice, janitorial, and packaging supplies. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what regenerative agriculture truly entails, how it distinguishes itself from sustainable practices, and its pivotal role in the future of farming, food, and business. As an expert in the field, Doctor Olitz shares her extensive career journey and her passion for advancing sustainable and regenerative farming. The episode sheds light on the complexities and benefits of these agricultural practices, tackling misconceptions, economic implications, and creative solutions for implementing regenerative methods on both small and large scales. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the regenerative approach to agriculture and how it can help mitigate climate change and promote biodiversity.

In this episode of Going Zero, sponsored by Emerald EcoVations, we interview Ryan Smith, the founder and CEO of Recyclops. Ryan shares his journey from identifying the glaring gaps in recycling access for multifamily housing and small businesses to creating an innovative solution that is rapidly expanding across the United States. Ryan emphasizes the importance of finding creative solutions to improve recycling infrastructure, touching on difficulties in rural areas, contamination issues, and the necessity for education and outreach. From his early sustainability interests to building a company that serves over 770 ZIP codes, Ryan's story is a testament to the power of dedication and innovation in the sustainability arena. Join us as we explore the intricacies of making recycling accessible and efficient, one community at a time.

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero podcast with hosts Seth Combs, Christy Cook, and Eric Pasewalk. This week, we're at the intersection of sustainability and luxury in the realm of Super Yachting with Captain Nigel Marrison and Nigel Kilpatrick of Blue ESG. With over thirty years of experience in the leisure maritime industry and a dedication to advancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, Captain Marrison, the founder of Blue ESG, brings a wealth of knowledge on transforming the superyachting sector towards ecological responsibility. Alongside him, Nigel Kilpatrick, Chief Strategy Officer, shares his insights into how this luxurious industry is evolving in the face of tighter global ESG frameworks and regulations. Together, they explore innovative practices aligning luxury with sustainability and the critical role of leadership with purpose and ethics in this transformation. Join us as we navigate the journey towards a more sustainable future in the maritime sector.

Welcome back to "Going Zero," where we guide business leaders on their journey to sustainability. We're excited to bring you our special Year-End Wrap-up. As we close out 2024, we'll reflect on our favorite moments from the 29 episodes we've recorded, discussing everything from the decline in biodiversity and fossil fuels to the growing promise of hydrogen as a fuel source.We'll revisit key conversations with inspiring leaders like the VP of the Cleveland Cavaliers, representatives from the NYC Mayor’s Office, and notable figures such as a US women's rugby team Olympian. We’ll celebrate major achievements, such as Aquaria’s innovation award and funding round, and discuss the powerful message of sustainability from rural leaders like Josh Brooks.Join us as we look back on the year, celebrate our accomplishments, express our gratitude to our sponsors at Emerald Ecovations, and prepare for another impactful year ahead. We invite you to reflect with us, stay optimistic, and keep taking meaningful steps toward a sustainable future. Let's dive into the highlights and lessons from 2024 – stick around!

Welcome to another edition of Going Zero! This week, we discuss Circularity and dive into the concept of the circular economy and its transformative impact on sustainable business practices. We explain the Circular Economy, the need for it now and in the future along with discussing the challenges. In addition, we'll highlight IKEA, Emory University and global trends. Proudly sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, visit them at EmeraldEcovations.com

This week's episode tackles another side of food waste...food loss at the farm level. Join us as Dr Lisa Johnson shares some incredible insights into food waste. Did you know that a staggering 34-42% of harvested produce never makes it off the farm due to market inconsistency and strict quality requirements. You don't want to miss this episode. Keep up on sustainability in your office every week with Going Zero, sponsored by Emerald Ecovations - bringing you sustainable alternatives for your everyday essentials, from coffee cups and toilet paper to cutlery and to-go containers. Learn more at EmeraldEcovations.com.

Welcome to another episode of Going Zero, sponsored by Emerald Ecovations. Each week, we strive to help business leaders navigate workplace sustainability. Today's episode features a special guest, Dr. Cheryl Baldwin, VP of Sustainability Consulting at Pure Strategies.In our conversation with Dr. Baldwin, we discuss the Nature Action Forum—an initiative fostering proactive corporate engagement in sustainability. Dr. Baldwin shares how nature can account for at least 30% of emissions mitigation needed to meet the Paris Agreement, illustrating the vital role of nature in climate adaptation. We discuss the current crisis in nature, with nearly 70% of monitored species populations declining, and the necessity of synchronizing climate and biodiversity goals.Dr. Baldwin explains gap assessments and the concept of the nature footprint, emphasizing land use's significant impact. She offers real-world examples, such as Walmart's nature protection investments and Toyota's habitat restoration goals, showcasing how companies can support local economies and indigenous communities in biodiversity projects.Dr. Baldwin's team at Pure Strategies provides invaluable resources, including the "Planet Forward" series, to help companies address these interconnected challenges. She encourages business leaders to focus on sustainable practices beyond carbon accounting, integrating strategies for protection, restoration, and sustainable management of nature.Tune in to discover how businesses can accelerate their sustainability journey, foster innovation, and contribute to a resilient future. Don't forget to subscribe to our "Going Zero" newsletter for the latest sustainability updates, and visit our sponsor at emeraldecovations.com for sustainable workplace solutions.

Welcome to another episode of "Going Zero," the podcast that empowers business leaders to embed sustainable practices into their workplace. Sponsored by Emerald Ecovations, the Going Zero podcast features insights from experts and thought leaders who are pioneering change in the corporate world.In today’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Alex Gold, a visionary biologist with a PhD in resilience science and the CEO of BWD North America, where he guides businesses toward sustainable strategies that align with long-term corporate goals.Dr. Gold is also the author of the groundbreaking new book, "Leaving Planet Simple." We'll explore Dr. Gold's unique definition of sustainability, explore the transformative mindset shifts he advocates, and uncover practical strategies for integrating sustainability into the core of business operations. Dr. Gold will share insights from his extensive career across academia, government, and consulting, illustrating how resilience science can future-proof businesses and lead to smarter, more adaptive corporate strategies.

This week, we are diving into the world of fuel cells with Tony Leo, EVP and CTO of FuelCell Energy. Tony has devoted his career to the advancement of fuel cells, and his teachings on fuel cells and hydrogen is amazing. We had a blast with this interview and hope you enjoy it.

We're thrilled to welcome Ted Grozier, the Chief Sustainability Officer and Principal at Good.Lab.Ted is a consultant and project manager who is an expert at turning sustainability & ESG innovation into business success. He was an Engagement Manager at GreenOrder, the pioneering consulting firm that Fortune called the “go-to guys for green business.” Ted also served as Flagship Manager for EIT Climate-KIC, the European Union’s largest climate innovation initiative, in Berlin, Germany, where he lived for eight years. Ted is a Harvard engineer with an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. As Good.Lab’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Ted works across the organization to hold the team to the highest ESG standardsWe'll dive deep into Ted's career journey, starting from his time at Ford, to his current role at Good.Lab. We'll explore the critical role mid-market companies play in the global supply chain and how they're navigating evolving sustainability regulations. Ted will share his insights on leveraging sustainability as a competitive advantage, the importance of robust data for environmental impact, and the growing demand for eco-efficient practices.Join us as we discuss the power of customer pressure in driving environmental change, the challenges in manufacturing and raw materials, and the potential of renewable energy and electric vehicles. Whether you're a seasoned sustainability professional or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with valuable information and actionable takeaways. So sit back, and let's get started!

This week, we're thrilled to interview Cory Connors, the Director of Sustainable Packaging at Orora Packaging Solutions and host of the Sustainable Packaging Podcast.In this episode, Cory, also known as "CoryGated," shares his 21 years of experience in packaging with us. We'll explore groundbreaking innovations in packaging, such as the use of compostable mycelium and seaweed-based coatings, and discuss the significant growth in the sustainable packaging market, projected to reach $210 billion by 2026.We'll tackle the logistical challenges posed by these new materials, learn about Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws and their implications, and hear about consumer-driven changes in packaging practices. Plus, Cory provides invaluable advice for businesses looking to transition to more sustainable options.Whether you're interested in the latest trends in sustainable packaging or seeking practical tips to make your business more eco-friendly, this episode has something for you. Stay tuned as we uncover how sustainable packaging is reshaping industries and reducing our carbon footprint.To follow Cory, please go to: Instagram or TikTok

This week, we have a special guest, Neeti Jain, Strategic Partnerships Advisor at the NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy. In this episode, we'll explore innovative strides in the food industry, particularly plant-based solutions, and their impact on climate change. Neeti shares insights from Columbia University's fully plant-based 'Battle of the Dining Halls' and the NYC's K-12 food education initiatives that empower young students as active participants in environmental responsibility.

In this episode, we explore hydrogen's past, its potential roles in transportation and industry, and the hurdles we need to overcome for its widespread adoption. From the Hindenburg disaster to groundbreaking new technologies, we'll cover the spectrum of hydrogen's journey. We'll also discuss the U.S. government's strategic investment in hydrogen and what it means for the future.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Going Zero, where we dive deep into the latest developments in sustainability and climate action. This week, we're joined by Cheryl Baldwin and Karimah Hudda to wrap up the key moments, insights, and reflections from Climate Week New York.Cheryl, the Vice President of Sustainability Consulting at Pure Strategies, blends her expertise in local food systems and zero-waste innovations with impactful stories from space exploration to corporate sustainability.Karimah, the Founder and Chief Catalyst of Illumina.Earth, shares her profound journey inspired by her family's activism in India and her extensive experience in fair trade and human rights. Together, they unravel the complexities of Climate Week, highlighting the power of Gen Z, the need for broader public engagement, and the balance between urgency and sustainability in climate action.While attending Climate Week in person can be impactful, there are numerous ways to engage from anywhere. Whether it's through virtual events, LinkedIn discussions, or amplifying key takeaways online, everyone can contribute to driving action on climate issues.The resources mentioned on the podcast, available at https://purestrategies.com/startnow, are free for a limited time, so be sure to visit soon.

Welcome to another episode of the Going Zero podcast. In this week’s installment, hosts Christy Cook, Seth Combs, and Eric Pasewalk discuss the significance of Zero Emissions Day, its founding objectives, and the actionable steps businesses and individuals can take to combat climate change.The Genesis of Zero Emissions DayZero Emissions Day, celebrated annually on September 21st, was initiated in 2008 by Ken Wallace, a Canadian from Nova Scotia. His objective was straightforward yet profound—give the planet a day off from fossil fuels. As Eric pointed out, Wallace envisioned this as a day to reflect on what our world could look like without the incessant consumption of fossil fuels. Imagine a day where the air is cleaner and the skies are clearer—a preview of a possible greener future.The Concept of Clean ElectrificationOne of the pillars of achieving zero emissions involves clean electrification—a process essentially revolving around replacing fossil fuels with sustainable electricity. Eric explains, "We want every day to be a zero emissions day." This method doesn't merely focus on switching to renewable sources but also emphasizes efficient energy transmission and use. Smart grids play an essential role here, responding flexibly to the growing demand for electricity and facilitating a decentralized production network. Clean electrification extends into various sectors, particularly transportation, industry, and localized energy use, enabling a transition away from fossil fuels.

What is regenerative leadership and what role will it play in the future? In this week's episode, we sit down with Karimah Hudda, founder of llumine.earth. Karimah is focused on scaling regenerative ways of living, leading, and doing business, which are all key to accelerating the race toward regenerating nature and equity, and a thriving future for all of us.

Today, we have a very special guest—Gareth Evans, the visionary CEO and founder of Veckta, who specializes in on-site energy solutions. We’ll explore Gareth’s innovative journey, including his collaboration with Launch Alaska's Clean Energy Project aimed at transforming remote communities. From the complexities of integrating solar power to the benefits of supplemental technologies like batteries and gas turbines, Gareth sheds light on a holistic approach to sustainable energy.We’ll also discuss the crucial role of community engagement, financing, and how businesses—big and small—can turn sustainability from a perceived risk into a profitable opportunity. Stay tuned as we unpack the myriad of ways Veckta’s data-driven platform is making it easier for companies to achieve their energy goals, along with insights on the latest trends like microgrids, smart infrastructure, and the growing importance of sustainability reporting.Tune in to learn how you can make proactive, no-regret decisions in your energy consumption and stay competitive in an evolving market. 

This week, we've got Brian Sheng, CEO of Aquaria.world! Brian walks us through atmospheric water generators and the quest to harness air to create clean, drinkable water. Every year, as the climate crisis worsens, clean water is becoming more valuable and breakthroughs like Aquaria give us a peek into the future. Go to Aquaria.World to learn more.

If food waste were a country, it would be the third largest emitter of methane behind China and the US. It's a gargantuan problem handling food waste and loss requiring policies and commitment. In this episode, Christy, Eric, and Seth dive into the world of food waste in the US.

Tune in to find out about rising sea levels, and how it stands to impact over 900 million people in the coming years. We cover efforts being done in Louisiana, Galveston, and even Indonesia - where the government is trying to move the capital of Jakarta before it is submerged.

We’re thrilled to announce the latest episode of "Going Zero," where we explore the intersection of Olympic rugby and sustainability with a truly inspiring guest, Alena Olsen. Alena, a prospective member of the 2024 Olympic Women's Rugby team and a passionate advocate for climate action, shares her unique journey and insights on making sports more sustainable.

In "Biodiversity - The Plight of the Insect," we discuss one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time: the alarming decline in insect populations and its profound impact on biodiversity.We'll delve into why insects are vital to our ecosystems, highlighting their crucial roles in pollination and as a food source. Our conversation will cover the factors contributing to their rapid decline, such as habitat loss, agricultural expansion, urban development, deforestation, and climate change. With insects going extinct at a rate eight times faster than mammals, birds, and reptiles, the economic implications are dire, particularly for food crop pollination.We'll explore specific insects like bees, butterflies, and ground beetles, uncovering their essential functions and the importance of creating natural habitats for their survival. Seth will reflect on the environmental classic "Silent Spring," emphasizing the impact of human activities on insect populations.Our discussion extends to the legislative arena, where policy efforts and existing laws are being scrutinized to protect these miniature yet mighty creatures. We'll encourage listeners to engage in these vital debates and recognize biodiversity as a critical global concern with significant economic repercussions.

In this episode, Ralph shares his two-decade journey into sustainability, starting from his early experiences with providing foam cups to the significant shift towards tree-free paper cups. We get to discuss Ralph's push to educate the public on sustainable options for their everyday essentials, from toilet paper and coffee cups to paper towels and more. We can make sustainable choices with ease.

This week, we discuss the urgent need to transition from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Our conversation covers the necessity of reducing carbon dioxide emissions to combat climate change and the hurdles of increasing electricity demands.We discuss the critical need to shift away from coal, natural gas, and other fossil fuels. Despite the significant challenge that lies in replacing these sources, and the importance of this transition.Our conversation also highlights the importance of developing reliable energy storage solutions to address the inconsistency of wind and solar power. Plus, Eric shares insights on the hurdles businesses face due to changing policies between administrations and the struggles with infrastructure investments.

We're excited to bring you a fascinating conversation with Josh Brooks, a veteran in the clean energy sector and a partner at Waybright. Josh brings his deep expertise from working on integrated design, utility business model innovation, and energy regulatory reform. In this episode, Josh delves into the intricate world of the U.S. energy grid, explaining why it's considered the largest machine in human history and how it's structured across the nation. Get ready as we talk sustainability and the future of energy.

We're unpacking the intricate web of sustainability, its historical roots, and how it's woven into the fabric of modern business practices. We will guide you through a journey from the early days of environmental policy to the cutting-edge frameworks of the 2000s. We’ll explore how companies like Unilever and Patagonia have embedded sustainability into their DNA, not just for profit but for planetary health. We'll discuss how businesses can foster a triple bottom line to balance between social, economic, and environmental impacts. Additionally, today's dialogue will include important insights into the roles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in creating sustainable policies. Let’s get started and dive into the essence and evolution of sustainability!

We're diving deep into three pivotal areas where change can and must be initiated to combat climate change: policy, human behavior, and technology.In our discussion, we'll unpack the importance of dynamic and inclusive policy development at various levels—local, state, regional, and global. Let's discover how policy changes can be directly linked to individual choices and collective improvements in society, while also stressing the need for speed and engagement in policy making.

Meet Danielle Doza, the VP of Sustainability and Environmental Services for the Cleveland Cavaliers, the first senior-level sustainability position in the NBA. Danielle was recently recognized by Business Journal as one to watch for women in sports and sustainability. We dig into how Danielle brings sustainability to one of the largets sports organizations in the world.

This week, we're dedicating our energies to a challenge that affects us all: plastic pollution. This year's Earth Day theme, Planet vs Plastics, hits close to home, and we've lined up an eye-opening episode that's set to inform, inspire, and ignite change.Did you know that less than 5% of plastic is actually recycled in the United States? This chilling statistic leads us to explore the complexities of recycling and the new challenges that arose after China's National Sword Policy disrupted the global recycling game. Eric explains how plastic production and recycling are intertwined with our environmental impact, while Christy offers insights into the sometimes surprising benefits of plastic usage in packaging.From San Francisco Airport's plastic bottle ban to new laws on compostable bags, we're seeing a surge in local action. Our hosts share on-the-ground stories of municipalities enacting ordinances to combat disposable culture. But is it enough? Tune in to learn how these regulatory efforts are shaping our consumption patterns and what more needs to be done.

How has the shift from using "global warming" to "climate change" impacted public perception and policy discussions about environmental issues? Can the introduction of terms like "climate crisis" or "climate catastrophe" galvanize the public and lawmakers into more urgent action, or might they lead to desensitization and apathy due to fear and anxiety? Our latest episode has just dropped, and it’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the nuances of climate communication and action. Listen to "Going Zero" to explore:- The history of environmental terminology and its impact on public perception.- The vital role of data and international agreements in shaping climate policies.- Practical steps individuals and businesses can take to reduce their carbon footprint.

Did you know that if food waste were a country, it would be the third largest greenhouse gas emission-producing country in the world? The stats are staggering and it's one of the easiest ways we can make an impact on the climate crisis while helping those who are undernourished. Learn how to make simple steps in your home and office.