Getting In the Loop: Circular Economy | Sustainability | Closing the Loop
Welcome to Getting In the Loop – a podcast dedicated to exploring how to transform to a more circular society that recognises our planet’s limited resources. Join host Katie Whalen as she examines the challenges facing our current resource use and discovers alternatives to the ‘take, make, dispose’ way of doing things. Each week she interviews circular economy experts about what they’re doing and learning (including Anna Tari of the Circular Economy Club, Ken Webster of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and many more). Together we'll uncover what circular economy means in practice and find out what's being done to keep our r...
Mon, May 16, 2022
Investing in Circular Economy Business Models with Jamie Butterworth
Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including: The Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODE Welcome to the season finale of the Getting in the Loop Podcast! This season our theme has been ‘making circular business happen.' So far we've talked to companies and researchers working with circular business models specialized in repair and refurbishment. Now it's time to hear from another key player in the circular business ecosystem: that’s right, we’re talking about investing in circular businesses. Jamie Butterworth of Circularity Capital joins us for this season's final instalment. Circularity Capital is a specialist private equity firm founded to provide clients access to investment opportunities created by the circular economy. You might be familiar with Jamie Butterworth as he was the first CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, before going on to found Circularity Capital. In today’s episode, you’ll learn if investing in circular economy solutions is really that different from how we currently invest. You'll hear how Circularity Capital selects companies for its portfolio and the different investment challenges circular businesses face depending on their business model. Jamie also shares a bit about what it was like to be the first CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and what has surprised him the most about the growing interest in circular economy over the past 10 years.
Mon, May 16, 2022
Creating a Circular Economy for Electronics with Jessika Luth Richter
Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including: The Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODE We’re joined by Jessika Luth Richter, a postdoctoral researcher at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics. In today’s episode, we cover a lot of ground - we’re talking all things electronics and policy. You’ll hear about the idea of ‘Right to Repair’ that is gaining traction in the US and EU, find out how policies like extended producer responsibility (EPR) relate to circular economy, and more! Related episodes: How Policy Can Help Create a More Circular Economy with Leonidas Milios ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Jessika researches policies and initiatives enabling a circular economy, including extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies, ecodesign policies, green procurement, circular business practices and circular city initiatives. She has experience with qualitative research methods, multi-criteria policy evaluation methods, and quantitative life cycle methods (I.e. LCA, LCC, MFA). She also has experience evaluating environmental economic instruments such as emission trading schemes and green stimulus packages. She is currently researching how different values can be retained in closing loops for electronics products through EPR policies and how policies can support upscaling repair of these products. Jessika is also involved in teaching, including designing and running massive open online courses.
Mon, February 14, 2022
How to Upscale Reuse of Electronics with Sebastian Holmström
Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including: The Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODE In today’s episode, we’re talking all things about reuse of electronics. Sebastian Holmström explains how Inrego’s electronics refurbishment business model works. We discuss the Swedish Government’s Circular Economy Delegation where Sebastian is the chairman of an expert group on reuse and Sebastian shares several ‘pre-conditions’ he believes necessary to encourage reuse at a large scale. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Sebastian Holmström is Circular Strategy Lead at Inrego. Before joining Inrego, Sebastian worked to reduce littering in Sweden at Keep Sweden Clean. Sebastian is also a board member of the Swedish circular economy platform Cradlenet.
Mon, January 31, 2022
Making Parenthood Easier Through Circular Economy with David Knutsson
Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including: The Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S EPISODE Parently aims to make parenting worry-free by offering subscription services for children’s things including strollers, bikes, and cots. In this episode, you’ll hear from CEO and Founder David Knutsson about the unique way Parently’s business model works, the challenge they have faced, and why David refers to refurbishment as the ‘sewage system of the circular economy.’ Hint: it’s a backbone to making circular economy happen, but no one wants to talk about it or deal with it. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST David Knutsson is CEO and Founder of Parently. The idea for Parently was born in 2019 while David was expecting his first child and discovered no other companies in Sweden offered high value children’s products through subscription-based, circular business models.
Mon, January 17, 2022
Circular Design and Business Models for Longer Lasting Electronics with Tom Leenders
Kicking off the new Getting in the Loop podcast season is entrepreneur Tom Leenders of Gerrard Street. Gerrard Street is a modular, high-end headphone company proving how circular products can be brought to market. In today's episode, you’ll discover how Gerrard Street distributes their headphones, the new type of customer they’ve added since the COVID19 pandemic, and the biggest design challenge they’ve faced so far. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Tom Leenders co-founded Gerrard Street after graduating with an MSc in Integrated Product Design from Delft University of Technology. Now over six years later, Tom joins us on the Getting in the Loop podcast to share what he’s learned and how Gerrard Street has evolved. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including: The Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast
Trailer · Mon, December 13, 2021
GETTING IN THE LOOP is back!
Hi Getting in the Loop listeners, We are starting a new GETTING IN THE LOOP season on Monday, January 17th. Today I’m announcing the line-up of awesome guests. Our guiding theme this season is circular business. We’ll hear from entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers who are making circular economy happen through reuse, repair, refurbishment, and more. Check out the full line-up below to see who we will be joining us this season: Tom Leenders, Co-founder of modular headphone company Gerrard Street; David Knutsson, CEO and Founder of subscription service Parently; Sebastian Holmström, Circular Strategy Lead at Inrego; Jessika Luth Richter, Postdoctoral Researcher at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics; Jamie Butterworth, Founding Partner of Circularity Capital and first CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. These are conversations about making circular economy happen in companies. I can’t wait for the season to kick-off so I can finally be able to share them with you. Interviews will begin airing January 17, 2022, and run every other week until March. The season will be about 5 episodes in total: short and sweet, but jam-packed with practical insights! So, get ready to tune in and share these episodes with those you think will also find their contents insightful. Are you ready to get back to Getting in the Loop? See you on January 17th! Resources: Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast gettinginthelooppodcast.com .
Mon, December 06, 2021
Addressing Social Aspects in Circular Economy with Alexandre Lemille
In today’s episode, Alexandre Lemille introduces us to his idea of a 'Circular Humansphere,' which focuses on addressing human needs thanks to system circularity. Get ready to learn more about Alexandre’s model that aims to build regenerative societies in full alignment with life systems. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Alexandre Lemille was recognized by the World Economic Forum as “Highly Commended” in the Circular Economy Leadership category (2016). He co-authored the 2020 academic Elsevier paper "Making Circular Economy Work for Human Development", and his Circular Humansphere concept was recently recognized by CRESTING Circular Research (2021). Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Don't forget to check out our free circular economy resources including: The Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Read more about the Circular Humansphere here .
Mon, July 05, 2021
Summer Break
Katie here! The Getting in the Loop podcast is going on a summer break and will resume episodes in the Fall. If you want to continue to learn about circular economy over the summer, we have a number of circular economy resources on our website. These include free downloads and new games to support you on your circular economy journey, especially if you want to share circular economy with others. Head to www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com and click ‘Resources’. That being said: While the podcast may be on summer break, the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast team will still be working behind the scenes, including planning and making new episodes for you! In fact, I asked members of our podcast Linkedin group what they wanted to hear about in upcoming episodes - so if you haven’t responded to that post, be sure to do so! Become a member of the Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast . It’s a great way to get in touch with me and connect with other listeners!
Mon, June 21, 2021
What You Need to Know about Circular Materials and Measuring Circular Economy with Jim Goddin
Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Today I’m thrilled to introduce you to Jim Goddin. Jim is Head of Circular Economy at thinkstep-anz, a sustainability consultancy based in Australia and New Zealand. Jim was one of the first people I met when I started learning about the circular economy back in 2012. In this episode of the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast, Jim shares what he’s learned having worked with circular economy issues over the past 10 years. Jim explains what most people get wrong about circular economy, the importance of measuring circularity, and what it was like to work with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on the development of their Material Circularity Indicator. We also discuss his expertise in critical raw materials and the one thing he thinks all companies should know - but likely don’t! Will you know it? About Today’s Guest Jim Goddin is Head of Circular Economy at thinkstep-anz. He specialises in circular economy systems design and has worked alongside the Ellen MacArthur Foundation for much of the past decade leading and co-authoring the widely adopted Material Circularity Indicator methodology. He has worked extensively on the development of eco-design tools and the assessment of business risks resulting from critical materials and hazardous substances legislation. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com .
Mon, June 07, 2021
What Sports and Circular Economy Culture Shifts Have in Common with Brad Jeavons
Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . What do sports and circular economy have in common? Well, today’s Getting in the Loop guest Brad Jeavons thinks approaches traditionally used by sports teams could help us create more sustainable and circular companies, especially when it comes to strategy and cultural deployment of circular economy concepts. Brad is an author, coach and presenter who focuses on helping organizations and their people reach their potential. In this episode, Brad shares what we can learn about transitioning to a circular economy from his experience helping large organizations shift culture. We also talk about why customer centric companies are more likely to have success with the circular economy and Brad shares his thoughts on the state of circular economy in Australia. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.
Mon, May 24, 2021
Can Circular Economy Enable Infinite Economic Growth? with Ekaterina Chertkovskaya
Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . In today’s episode: Ekaterina Chertkovskaya explains the concept of degrowth and shares examples of what this could mean in practice by presenting possible alternatives focused on openness and relocalization. She also explains why we should be wary of placing the blame on individuals and private citizens when it comes to sustainability - and what we can actually do to address this issue. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com.
Mon, May 10, 2021
#CircularNext and Exploring Circular Economy in North America with Humberto Olivo
You might think the circular economy movement is only growing in Europe - but today’s podcast guest proves other parts of the globe are also interested in the circular economy! In this week’s episode of the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast, I speak with Humberto Olivo from #CircularNext North America, a series of monthly events organized throughout 2021 with the aim to explore circular economy best practices in North America. In this episode, Humberto shares why he was motivated to start #CircularNext North America and how you can get involved. You’ll hear about topics previously covered in the series - including digitalization and circular economy in regions - and learn about upcoming topics including tourism, finance, and more. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode.
Mon, April 26, 2021
Circular Cities Initiatives and The Example of Prague with Vojtech Vosecky
Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. About Today’s Guest Vojtěch Vosecky is an Associate of Circle Economy, Co-founder of circular consultancy INCIEN, chair of the CE steering group @ city of Prague. He has worked on circular economy related issues in the European Parliament and currently works as Circle Economy's Associate focused on Nordics and the CEE. Vojtěch leads an expert team on circular economy for the city of Prague and collaborates with numerous other organisations. He is a member of the international groups such as Circular Economy Club and the Visegrad for Sustainability.
Mon, April 12, 2021
How Digital Technology Can Help Enable a Circular Economy Annika Hedberg
Resources Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. About Today’s Guest Annika Hedberg is Head of the Sustainable Prosperity for Europe Programme at the European Policy Centre (EPC), an independent think tank based in Brussels, Belgium. She joined the EPC in 2010 and over the years has worked on a wide range of policy areas, including climate, energy, environment, health, circular economy and industrial transformation. In her role as Head of Programme, she aims to promote discussion on the drivers and foundations for a more sustainable and competitive European economy.
Mon, March 29, 2021
Does Canada have a Circular Economy? with Paul Shorthouse
Resources Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. Want to know what’s happening with the circular economy in North America and especially Canada? In this week’s episode of the Getting in the Loop circular economy podcast I speak with Paul Shorthouse from the Circular Economy Leadership Coalition. Paul shares examples of circular economy in Canada, tells us why he believes North America is ready to adopt a circular economy, and explains the regional differences that could influence how circular economy concepts are adopted in North America. About Today’s Guest Paul Shorthouse is one of Canada’s leading experts in the emerging circular economy, providing solutions and engaging leaders who are working at the intersection of business innovation, public policy, economic development, and sustainability. In February 2021, Paul took on the role of Managing Director of the Circular Economy Leadership Coalition (CELC), and continues in his role with the GLOBE Series and The Delphi Group where he is a senior director and leads their Green and Circular Economy practice nation-wide.
Mon, March 15, 2021
Transparency and Technology in Circular Supply Chains with Mesbah Sabur
Get ready to learn all about how digitalization and technology can help enable a more circular economy by creating transparent supply chains. Mesbah Sabur joins us to share how his company Circularise is using blockchain to create an open-source platform for sharing data across supply chains. Circularise’s ambition is to improve transparency so that companies can move towards more circular production processes, starting with the plastics sector. In this episode, you’ll hear about Circularise and the common misunderstandings that people make about tech and circular economy. Mesbah sets the record straight and explains the 3 main types of approaches to supply chain transparency. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. About Today’s Guest Mesbah Sabur learned the value of hard work as an Afghan refugee, whose family sought asylum in his adopted homeland of the Netherlands when he was just 7. He recalls the frequent advice offered by his father during the five years they lived in refugee camps before achieving resident status: "Remember that you need to earn everything you are doing." That can-do philosophy — and his belief that it’s tough to solve big problems from inside big companies — inspired the creation four years ago of Circularise.
Mon, March 01, 2021
#61: Four Steps to Taking Circular Action and This Circular Economy Podcast Turns Two!
Today marks the 2nd anniversary of the Getting in the Loop podcast! To celebrate, I’m answering your most frequently asked questions: “How can I get started implementing a circular economy?” “What can I do?” In this episode, I share four steps to action-oriented circular economy. I’ve developed them based on what I’ve learned from our podcast guests and my own PhD research since launching the world’s first circular economy podcast two years ago. I’ve dubbed it ACT C(ircular) to help you remember: A: Acknowledge what you already know. What skills and expertise do you have? How could you draw on them? C: Commit to a small scope. Think small. T: Try out different CE strategies. Trial and error. C(ircular): Check the outcomes. What are the benefits? LINKS Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Linkedin Group: Getting in the Loop Podcast Leave Katie a voice message here - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. Episode on circular entrepreneurs ReSOLVE framework .
Mon, February 15, 2021
#60: How to Communicate Effectively about Circular Economy with Virginia Cinquemani
In this episode, Virginia Cinquemani shares the mistakes us circular economy professionals often make when we talk about circular economy. Are you making any of them? Get ready to find out! Through her company Green Gorilla, Virginia coaches sustainability professionals on how to make an impact and find the right way to communicate sustainability to their stakeholders. Virginia has a deep passion for sustainability and she is an advocate of bridging the soft skill gap in technical fields for effective and lasting change. She is also the author of SustainABLE: How to Find Success as a Sustainability Professional in a Rapidly Changing World. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. About Today’s Guest Virginia Cinquemani is the director and founder of Green Gorilla Consultants Ltd, a training and coaching company focused on empowering sustainability professionals to make an impact. She is the author of SustainABLE: How to Find Success as a Sustainability Professional in a Rapidly Changing World, and the Hub Lead for Women in Sustainability Hertfordshire.
Mon, February 01, 2021
#59: Circular Economy in Sweden and the Nordic Circular Hotspot with Elin Bergman
I’m thrilled to welcome Elin Bergman to the podcast. Elin has been called the “Circular economy queen of Sweden.’’ In this episode, you will hear how Elin stumbled upon the circular economy and how ever since she has been working to implement the transition to a more circular economy. You’ll find out about how Sweden is moving towards a circular economy and what Elin thinks needs to happen in order to make the transition. You’ll learn about Elin’s most recent initiative, a new international network called ‘The Baltic Stewardship Initiative’ which aims to enable recirculation of nutrients in the region from the agri-food sector. Elin works as the circular economy expert at WWF Sweden, is one of the initiators of the Nordic Circular Hotspot and is the Vice President and spokesperson of the Swedish circular economy network Cradlenet. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Katie’s note: Since this episode was recorded, I have left my role as a Managing Partner of the Nordic Circular Hotspot. About Today’s Guest Elin Bergman has been called the “Circular economy queen of Sweden.’’ She works as the circular economy expert at WWF Sweden, is one of the initiators of the Nordic Circular Hotspot and is the Vice President and spokesperson of the Swedish circular economy network Cradlenet. Cradlenet is one of the oldest circular economy networks in the world, celebrating their 10-year anniversary in 2019 with working to accelerate the transition of circular economy in Sweden and the world. At WWF, Elin has developed a new international network, The Baltic Stewardship Initiative, to enable recirculation of nutrients in the region from the agri-food sector.
Mon, January 18, 2021
#58: Moving to Reusable Packaging and Circular Economy Systems with Jennifer von der Heydt
Jennifer von der Heydt of Loop-it joins me on the podcast today! Jennifer is CEO and Co-Founder of Loop-It, which is an easy, convenient and affordable reuse system for products. Their reusable coffee cups can already be found in cafes throughout Sweden. Jenn founded loop-it in 2019 after her Erasmus at Linköping University in Sweden where loop-it began as an idea at an innovation bootcamp. Jennifer and the other co-founders won second place and kept going with their idea. In September 2020, she moved to Stockholm to work on loop-it full time. Loop-it was most recently part of the +impact accelerator from Danske Bank, RISE, WeWork Labs and Ignite Sweden. In this episode, Jennifer tells us about Loop-it and shares her experience as a circular entrepreneur. You’ll hear about what she’s learned setting up loop-it and the one question she always gets asked -- and is ready to answer for the last time on the podcast! Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. About Today’s Guest Jennifer von der Heydt has a background in Consumer Psychology and Circular Economy / Systems Design. She founded loop-it in 2019 after her Erasmus at Linköping University in Sweden where loop-it began as an idea at an innovation bootcamp. Jennifer and the other co-founders won second place and kept going with their idea. In September 2020, she moved to Stockholm to work on loop-it full time. Loop-it was most recently part of the +impact accelerator from Danske Bank, RISE, WeWork Labs and Ignite Sweden.
Mon, December 14, 2020
#57: Year in Review: Your Top 3 Circular Economy Podcast Episodes
Resources featured in this episode: * In the Loop Circular Business Deck * Circular Sectors Navigator E-Book Leave Katie a voice message - and maybe YOU will appear on the next episode. Leave your message: https://lnkd.in/dGWjxnq Join the Getting in the Loop: LinkedIn Page Previous episodes mentioned: #39 (circular design), #40, #41 (circular business models), #45, #49 (biomaterials), #47, #51 (plastics), #50 (circular experiment) Link to listener Sarah Thomas’ article: Read here Featured listener voicemail: Harivignesh Narayanasamy
Mon, November 30, 2020
#56: Fall Recap: 3 Circular Economy Events You Don’t Want to Miss
It’s been a crazy year hasn’t it? I hope all of you have been well considering this year has looked quite different than usual. One upside to going digital is the plethora of virtual events about circular economy. In this episode, I’m sharing about three online circular economy events from this fall. There's still time to join the upcoming IS4CE seminar: Join me live on December 2, 2020 at 16:30 CET for the IS4CE Seminar and catch recordings for the other events if you missed them! Become a part of the Getting in the Loop Podcast Linkedin Group. Fall 2020 events discussed in this episode: October 2020 : Putting circularity metrics to work in business November 2020 : Nordic Circular Summit December 2020 : IS4CE Seminar on “Circular transitions: Will incumbent companies make it? Learn more and register for free See more events at the WCEF Online Side Event Page
Mon, November 16, 2020
#55: Leading Sustainable Business and How the SDGs Changed Everything with Donald Eubank
Donald Eubank joins us on the podcast today! Based in Japan, Donald is co-author of the new book Leading Sustainably: The Path to Sustainable Business and How the SDGs Changed Everything . In this episode, Donald and I talk about the Sustainable Development Goals and how companies are using them to guide sustainable business practices. Developed by the United Nations, the Sustainable Development Goals are 17 goals often referred to as the ‘SDGs’ that provide a blueprint for us to achieve a better future for all. In today’s episode, I challenge Donald about their usefulness as guides for helping us achieve climate goals. Donald shares tangible examples from global companies that are using the SDGs as frameworks to implement sustainable business strategies in their organisations. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Join the Getting in the Loop Podcast Linkedin Group About Today’s Guest Donald Eubank is an experienced manager who has worked across the IT, finance, and media industries in Asia. As co-founder of Read the Air, he serves as a key advisor to businesses that are integrating sustainability into their core strategy, guiding their teams to lead sustainably and apply critical tools for managing impact. Donald is a former features editor and contributor at The Japan Times. A graduate of St. John's College, he applies critical thinking, philosophy and science to take deep dives on difficult new subjects and determine future directions for business strategy.
Mon, November 02, 2020
#54: Climate Activism and Zero Waste Awareness with Mariska Nell of Mama Earth Talk
Mariksa Nell is a Climate Activist, Artist and host of the Mama Earth Talk podcast. Today she joins us on the Getting in the Loop podcast to talk about zero waste, sustainability, and of course - circular economy! Mariksa Nell started experimenting with trash️ in her artwork and the curiosity of the medium had her researching how waste affects the environment. Since then, she has worked with many organisations globally to drive environmental and sustainable change and inspires change through her artwork, podcasting, and public speaking. Her artwork can be found in the collections Trevor Noah, Adrian Grenier, Gary Vaynerchuck, Kris Fade, and Black Coffee Mason Plumlee. In this episode, Mariska tells us how she became interested in climate activism and the unique way she went about raising sustainability awareness in the UAE. You will also learn about her motivation to start the Mama Earth Talk podcast and what she has learned from talking with experts all over the world having produced the podcast for over two years. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. About Today’s Guest Mariksa Nell started experimenting with trash️ in her artwork and the curiosity of the medium had her researching how waste affects the environment. She decided to take the trash to the streets of the UAE and wore all the trash she generated. 30 days and 65 kg of waste later she had the country buzzing with questions about waste and wanting to know how they can reduce it. This was the start of the podcast, Mama Earth Talk. She has worked with many organisations globally to drive environmental and sustainable change and inspires change through her artwork, podcasting, and public speaking. Her artwork can be found in the collections Trevor Noah, Adrian Grenier, Gary Vaynerchuck, Kris Fade, Black Coffee Mason Plumlee.
Mon, October 19, 2020
#53: Circular Economy in Healthcare and the Pharmaceutical Industry with Frederik van Deurs
Frederik van Deurs joins us on the podcast today! Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Frederik is the CEO of the Green Innovation Group, which has worked with pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk in a circular innovation challenge. Today you will learn about this challenge and Frederik’s takeaways. Our conversation really got me thinking about circular economy in healthcare and how to address consumable products in a circular way, since Novo Nordisk produces +500 million insulin pens a year. Let’s dive into today’s podcast and learn what Frederik has to say about the process of working with Novo Nordisk to look into plastic alternatives, take back solutions, and the possibilities to use enzyme waste to produce new products. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . About Today’s Guest Frederik is CEO of Green Innovation Group, which is a consulting firm that makes strategy and innovation for large clients. Frederik graduated from the University of Copenhagen with a specialty in anthropology and alternative societies. Last year, Frederik and the Green Innovation Group were a key part of the Novo Nordisk Innovation Challenge. Through the challenge Novo Nordisk and the Green Innovation Group looked at 350 circular economy companies before adopting five in an accelerator. Novo Nordisk is currently running pilot projects with several of the companies from the accelerator.
Mon, October 05, 2020
#52: What is the role of marketing in a circular economy? with Alena Kuzniatsova
How can marketing be used to help create a more circular economy? Alena from Orange Bird is here to share with us the ins and outs of marketing and that it is not inherently about getting people to buy more. Tune in to hear why you might want to start collaborating with your marketing department when it comes to innovating new circular business models. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . About Today’s Guest Alena Kuzniatsova is Founder and Chief Value Officer of Orange Bird. After working in different marketing functions for 15+ years, in 2017, Alena founded Orange Bird, an agile marketing agency, which focuses on and serves companies who use circular business models and help to reduce and eliminate greenhouse emissions.
Bonus · Mon, September 28, 2020
Special invitation! Join the Getting in the Loop Podcast Group on Linkedin
Join the podcast Linkedin group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12471484/ The aim of the Linkedin group is to enable Getting in the Loop podcast listeners to connect and discuss the podcast and circular economy! I also plan to share information and events I think might be relevant for you and invite you to do the same. Don't forget this week's events: Virtual WCEFonline Circular Hotspots of the World Event View the complete list of WCEF Side Events here.
Mon, September 21, 2020
#51: Creating a Circular Economy Value Chain for Plastics Packaging with Graham Houlder
Today we’re talking about the future of flexible packaging with Graham Houlder, Managing Director of SLOOP Consulting and founder & project coordinator for CEFLEX. In today’s episode, Graham and I talk about CEFLEX (a Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging). CEFLEX is a collaborative initiative of over 150 companies and associations from across the flexible packaging value chain with the aim to make flexible packaging even more relevant in the circular economy. Graham is an expert in this field and, in this episode, he provides significant insight into the world of packaging. Graham shares about collection and take back, including EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility), limits to plastic recycling, and how to design for circular packaging. And even if packaging isn’t your area of interest, I think you will find this episode valuable. There is a lot to learn from CEFLEX in terms of how to organize circular economy projects and get all actors from one sector involved, whether its material producers, manufacturers, end consumers and waste collectors. Get ready to be inspired to start your own initiative! Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . About Today’s Guest Graham is the Managing Director of SLOOP Consulting B.V. which has been offering consulting services and tools in the field of packaging and sustainability since 2009. He is the founder & project co-ordinator for CEFLEX (a Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging), which is a collaborative initiative by over 150 companies and associations from across the flexible packaging value chain to make flexible packaging even more relevant in the circular economy. Prior to 2009, he worked for Unilever for 23 years with a wide range of responsibilities including: R&D, Packaging management and design, Supply chain restructuring, Sustainability and CSR.
Mon, September 07, 2020
#50: The Circular Experiment and Action-Oriented Circular Economy with Ashleigh Morris
Welcome back to the Getting in the Loop podcast. We’re kicking off our Fall 2020 season with a milestone. We’re celebrating 50 episodes of the Getting in the Loop podcast! Wow, I truly could not have done it without YOU, listener. Thank you for sharing your favorite episodes, leaving reviews, and posting on Linkedin. It has been fun getting to know many of you over the last 1.5 years. About Today’s Guest Ashleigh Morris is the CEO of Coreo, a company actioning circular economy in Australasia. Ashleigh is widely recognised as a circular economy visionary with the skills, experience and ability to not only inform future strategy but to also lead the action required to achieve impact. Highlights Today’s episode is about DOING and for that reason I’m so happy that I can share it with you as our special 50th episode! Today’s theme revolves around asking: What would happen if you applied circular concepts to a local area or region? Ashleigh Morris of Coreo is here to dive into this question with us and share her experience! In this episode, Ashleigh tells us about the state of circular economy in Australia, and she shares her experiences practically implementing circular economy strategies. Tune in to hear about Coreo’s first project aptly named the Circular Experiment, where applying circular concepts such as reverse logistics and asset sharing to a street in Queensland resulted in economic, environmental and social benefits! Ashleigh also shares key factors you should consider before embarking on your own circular experiment. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com .
Trailer · Mon, August 31, 2020
We're Back! Coming September 7 to the Getting in the Loop Podcast
Next week (Sept 7, 2020) the Getting in the Loop podcast is back to its regularly scheduled programming! Join host Katie Whalen as she kicks off the Fall 2020 season with an interview featuring Ashleigh Morris, CEO of Coreo. Find out more about the podcast and listen to previous episodes at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. UPCOMING EVENT ALERT Interested in learning more about circular economy in the Nordics? On Sept 8, 2020, the Nordic Circular Hotspot is hosting an online side event as part of the digital World Circular Economy Forum. The event will focus on what’s happening with circular economy in the Nordics and what’s to come with the Nordic Circular Hotspot. The Hotspot’s mission is to fast-forward the transition to a more inclusive, resource-efficient and regenerative economy in the Nordics and is a collaboration between partnering organisations from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, and The Netherlands. I am especially excited to share this event with you because I am part of the Nordic Circular Hotspot team through my work at RISE. So, if you are interested in learning about the state of circular economy in the Nordics, I invite you to join us on Sept 8. Find more information and register here .
Mon, June 29, 2020
#49: Regenerative Design for a Circular Economy in Buildings & Construction with Ehab Sayed
It’s the last episode in our series in partnership with the International Society for the Circular Economy, and I’m so excited to introduce Ehab Sayed who is today’s guest. This episode has it all: circular materials, circular design, and circular business models! You will learn about how Ehab’s company Biohm is using bio-based materials to create a company founded on circular economy principles. Discover how Biohm is revolutionizing the construction industry with mycelium (which comes from mushrooms!), other plant-based materials, and circular design strategies like modularity. Plus, find out more about Ehab’s upcoming keynote for the inaugural (digital) conference of the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) (July 6-7, 2020). Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Getting in the Loop + International Society for the Circular Economy Team Up! This month we’ve partnered with the International Society for the Circular Economy so you can meet some of the keynote speakers ahead of their inaugural conference. To learn more and register for the digital event, please visit https://www.is4ce.org/en/society-for-the-circular-economy . Mark your calendars for July 6-7, 2020! FYI: the Getting in the Loop podcast will take a break from our regularly scheduled programming for the summer and resume in September. Make sure you are subscribed to the podcast to get notified when we resume and if any bonus content airs! ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Ehab Sayed, Founder and Director of Innovation at Biohm and PhD Researcher at Northumbria University, is a sustainable designer, engineer, circular economy strategist and built environment innovator with a passion for creating a biomimetic (nature-inspired) circular future that meets our environmental, economic and human needs. Through extensive research on the global construction industry, he founded Biohm to develop nature inspired construction systems and materials that champion a transformation towards the integration of biological processes in manufacturing. Leading a solid team of passionate and talented designers, engineers, architects, biologists and business innovators from around the globe he is working towards revolutionising the construction industry. Ehab is a Climate-Kic Certified Professional and with Biohm, has amassed a portfolio of awards and recognition from highly regarded international bodies. Member of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Circular Economy Club and UKGBC.
Mon, June 15, 2020
Moving to Circular Economy in Cities and Countries with Anders Wijkman
We are joined by Anders Wijkman, Honorary President of the Club of Rome and chairman of the Governing Board of Climate-KIC. In today’s episode, Anders reflects on our progress towards a circular economy and the role that cities play in the transition to a circular society. You will learn about Climate-KIC, hear about Anders’ experience with environmental policy in the European Parliament, and find out more about his upcoming keynote for the inaugura (digital) conference of the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) (July 6-7, 2020). Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Getting in the Loop + International Society for the Circular Economy Team Up! This month we’ve partnered with the International Society for the Circular Economy so you can meet some of the keynote speakers ahead of their inaugural conference. To learn more and register for the digital event, please visit https://www.is4ce.org/en/society-for-the-circular-economy . Mark your calendars for July 6-7, 2020! ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Anders Wijkman is an opinion maker and author. He is Honorary President of the Club of Rome, senior advisor to The Stockholm Environment Institute and chairman of the Swedish Association of Recycling Industries. As of March 2017 Anders is chairman of the Governing Board of Climate-KIC – the largest public-private partnership on innovation for low-carbon solutions in the EU. Anders has served as a Member of the European Parliament, as Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Policy Director of UNDP, as Secretary General of the Swedish Red Cross, as Secretary General of the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation and as Director General of SAREC (the Swedish Agency for Research Cooperation with Developing Countries).
Mon, June 01, 2020
COVID-19 and the Circular Economy: Creating Resiliency with Walter Stahel
Today we’re thrilled to welcome Walter Stahel back to the podcast! In this episode, you will learn about the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) and its inaugural conference, which will be held digitally on July 6 - 7, 2020. You will also hear Walter’s thoughts on a circular future post-COVID-19 and find out why circular economy and resilience go hand in hand. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Getting in the Loop + International Society for the Circular Economy Team Up! This month we’ve partnered with the International Society for the Circular Economy so you can meet some of the keynote speakers ahead of their inaugural conference. To learn more and register for the digital event, please visit https://www.is4ce.org/en/society-for-the-circular-economy . Mark your calendars for July 6-7, 2020! ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Dr. Walter R. Stahel is founder and director of the Product-Life Institute (Switzerland), the oldest established consultancy in Europe devoted to developing sustainable strategies and policies. He is honorary president of IS4CE, a visiting professor at the University of Surrey (UK), a full member of the Club of Rome, and author of numerous publications, including his recent book The Circular Economy: A User’s Guide.
Mon, May 18, 2020
How to Use Innovation to Reduce Food Waste and Circular Economy Start-ups with Robert Luo
Today’s guest was inspired to find a solution to reuse food waste after visiting his uncle’s dairy farm. He is now the driving force behind Mi Terro, a new material technology company that turns food waste into fiber. Three-time entrepreneur and Mi Terro’s CEO and Founder Robert Luo joins us today to talk about creating the world's first apparel line made from milk waste, which has been sold to 40 countries worldwide. Mi Terro and Operation Food Search are partnering in the fight against hunger: Use the discount code "WEFEEDKIDS" for 25% off at www.miterro.com and 20 meals will be donated to a child in need every time the code is applied. About Today’s Guest Robert Luo is a three-time entrepreneur. He sold his first company for $300,000 while he studied at the University of Southern California. He is a Forbes Under 30 Scholar and Global Shaker's Sustainable Fashion Innovator 2019. He is also an Entrepreneur Hall of Fame at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business, recipient of "25 Under 25" by Social Entrepreneur Magazine, and recipient of the All America Chinese Youth Federation "Top 30 under 30". Show notes and links related to this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com .
Mon, May 04, 2020
Biomaterials to Move Towards a Circular Bioeconomy with Dr. Michael A. Saltzberg
Dive into the fascinating world of biomaterials and circular design with Dr. Michael Saltzberg. Michael is the Global Business Director for Biomaterials at DuPont. In today’s episode, you’ll hear how material suppliers like DuPont are contributing to a more circular economy by combining performance and environmentally-driven design. Michael explains key concepts related to biomaterials and the biocycle and shares examples of how biomaterials can be used in practice to extend product life cycles and help close material loops. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Michael A. Saltzberg is the Global Business Director for Biomaterials at DuPont. There he leads a portfolio of commercial and emerging businesses which utilize renewable feedstocks, rather than petroleum or natural gas derivatives, to make industrially important chemicals and materials, including DuPont Sorona® polymer and Bio-PDO™ propanediol. Through the development of renewable biochemicals and biomaterials, Dr. Saltzberg and his team are solving critical issues for industries as varied as packaging, cosmetics, apparel and carpeting, all facing the challenges of offering high performance choices to their downstream customers while making their supply chains more sustainable. Show notes and links related to this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com .
Mon, April 20, 2020
Celebrating Earth Day and Shifting to Digital Experiences after COVID-19 with Matt Hill
This week marks the annual celebration of Earth Day and we are celebrating with Matt Hill, the CEO and Founder of One Tree Planted. Matt’s team reached out to me earlier this month and I jumped at the opportunity to chat with him. One Tree Planted has had to reshift their Earth Day Celebration plans in light of recent events, and today you will hear how they have proceeded with a digital experience. You’ll also learn about reforestation, how you can participate in Earth Day (even while social distancing!), and pivoting in times of uncertainty. Related resources and shownotes of past episodes available at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com
Bonus · Mon, April 06, 2020
Celebrating 1 Year of Getting in the Loop and Circular Economy Learning
Today we’re celebrating the 1 year anniversary of the Getting in the Loop podcast! Let's look back at a year of circular economy learning. The episode features a clip from the very first Getting in the Loop podcast episode with Professor David Peck from TU Delft. Thank you to everyone who went on Linkedin and posted after our last episode. You can find the related article and join in on the conversation here: www.linkedin.com/pulse/three-positive-takeaways-circular-economy-from-current-whalen/ Will you join me with thanking our previous circular economy expert guests? Here's how: 1) Think about a past interview episode that you really enjoyed or learned a lot from. 2) Share a link to that episode on your favorite social media platform. Bonus: You can even write why you enjoyed the episode and tag the interviewee! Related resources and shownotes of past episodes available at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com
Mon, March 23, 2020
Reflections on Circular Economy in a Time of COVID-19
Today I am reflecting broadly on the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic could have on the circular economy movement. I’ve selected three positive effects I hope it will have including: Improving our ability for (virtual) collaboration Illustrating the possibility for strong leadership and quick action Supporting distributed - rather than centralised - circularity We also touch on the European Commission’s New Circular Economy Action Plan. I want to hear your thoughts and comments, so I’ve posted the transcript of this podcast on my LinkedIn as an article. After you’re done listening, I invite you to join in on the conversation by posting a comment on the article. Resources and links mentioned in this episode can be found at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com .
Mon, March 09, 2020
Circular Business Transformation and Moving Towards Circular Economy with Mike Townsend
Today we are talking with the Earthshine Group’s Founder and CEO Mike Townsend! Mike is passionate about sharing knowledge and skills in support of the transition towards a sustainable economy. In this episode, Mike talks about the business of change and how transforming business towards circular ways of working starts with capability development. You’ll also hear about some recent circular economy projects that Mike has been involved with, including a fascinating project with Norsk Ombruk, which remanufactures white goods such as washing machines. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com
Mon, February 24, 2020
Communicating Circular Economy and How to be a Circular Entrepreneur with Katherine Whalen
It’s official! I’m now Dr. Whalen and today we’re celebrating on the podcast by mixing things up a bit from our normal interviews. Lately I’ve been receiving a lot of requests from people who are just getting into the circular economy and want to understand the basics. Recently I had the chance to incorporate storytelling techniques into my approach when I was invited to give a keynote speech at Lund University for an event called Trendspotting Circular Economy. I thought I’d share the talk with you and I hope it will inspire you in how you communicate circular economy. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com
Mon, February 10, 2020
Circular Plastics and Collaborating for the Circular Economy with Jeff Wooster
You may have wondered what big companies are doing about the circular economy, so today Jeff Wooster joins us to talk about just that! Jeff Wooster is the Global Sustainability Director for Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics. Dow is one of the third largest chemical companies in the world and a member of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Circular Economy 100 (CE 100) Network. In this episode, you will learn about some of the initiatives DOW has been working on regarding circular economy. This includes a partnership with the company Fuenix Ecogy Group to use plastic waste in the production of new polymers, and Project Butterfly which is a social initiative that addresses poor waste management through education, clean-ups, and innovation. Tune in to find out what must be done to meet our future plastic demands. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Jeff Wooster is the Global Sustainability Director for Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics. He is on the Board of Directors for GreenBlue and serves on the steering team for the Ocean Conservancy’s Trash Free Seas Alliance. Wooster has been recognized for his many efforts to advance sustainability practices including the American Chemistry Council Responsible Care 2015 Employee of the Year and an inaugural person of the year Trashie Award from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. He lives in Houston, Texas with his husband Randy and their dog Hercules.
Mon, January 27, 2020
Designing Materials and Emotionally Durable Products for a Circular Economy with Merryn Haines-Gadd
Today we’re talking about design and innovation for a circular economy! I’m joined by Dr. Merryn Haines-Gadd from the University of Exeter’s Centre for Circular Economy. In this episode, you will learn about emotionally durable design and the nine product longevity strategies that are relevant for a circular economy. You will also hear about the fascinating new world of self-healing materials and the various applications where they are being applied to help extend product lifetimes. Resources and links in this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Dr. Merryn Haines-Gadd is a post-doc researcher at the University of Exeter within the Exeter Centre for Circular Economy (ECCE). She works in the EPSRC consortium ‘Manufacturing Immortality’, investigating the design opportunities and Circular Economy implications of implementing self-healing materials within product development.
Mon, January 13, 2020
Circular Conversations and a New Economy with Emanuele Di Francesco
Today we are getting in the loop with Emanuele Di Francesco, founder of the online platform Circular Conversations. In this episode, you will learn about Circular Conversations, a platform where Emanuele engages with leaders in thinking related to the circular economy. You will also hear about Emanuele's work setting up circular economy projects at the Unknown Group. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at our website: www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Emanuele Di Francesco is founder of the online platform Circular Conversations. He is a passionate researcher and entrepreneur in the space of the circular economy, with an interest in opening up societal dialogue and working on impactful initiatives. He is currently responsible for setting up collaborative initiatives between start-ups and corporates to accelerate the transition to the circular economy at the Unknown Group.
Mon, December 16, 2019
Circular Business Models and Entrepreneurship in a Circular Economy with Katherine Whalen
It’s our last episode of 2019! Today I’m sharing an episode I recorded about circular business models with Steven Curtis and Sofie Sandin, two of my colleagues at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics (IIIEE) at Lund University. This episode originally appeared on the ‘ Advancing Sustainable Solution s’ podcast that Sofie and Steven co-host at the IIIEE. I wanted to share it with you all because of the insight into circular business models! In the episode we address two main questions: What are circular business models? How can entrepreneurs contribute to the circular economy? As part of the latter question, I share a bit about what we’re learning in the C://BOOT program , where I helped mentor twenty-one budding circular economy entrepreneurs this past fall. This episode is actually the first of three episodes from ‘ Advancing Sustainable Solution s’ on business in a circular economy. If you want to check out the second and third installments after listening to today’s episode, head over to www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com ! FYI: the Getting in the Loop podcast will take a three-week break for the holidays and resume Jan 13, 2020 with Episode 38. Happy holidays and can’t wait to connect with you again in the New Year!
Mon, December 09, 2019
Circular Change and National Circular Economy Roadmaps with Ladeja Godina Košir
In today’s episode, you’ll hear about Ladeja’s work to create a Circular Economy Roadmap for Slovenia and how she is working with people all over the world to implement circular change. Ladeja and I reflect on the importance of considering culture when discussing circular economy, and Ladeja shares some examples from her work in Norway and the Americas. We also talk about leadership for a circular economy and what it means to be a circular economy leader. This is something I was eager to hear from Ladeja about since I find her to be an inspirational circular economy leader, and in the episode, Ladeja share her thoughts about the qualities and capabilities that she thinks are necessary for today’s CE leaders. Show notes and links related to this episode can be found on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Ladeja Godina Košir is Founder & Director of Circular Change, Chair of ECESP in Brussels, is an internationally renowned expert for the circular economy, speaker and co-creator of international CE events. Ladeja was the finalist of The Circular Leadership Award 2018 (Davos World Economic Forum), recognised as the regional "engine of circular economy transition". She is the co-author of the Roadmap towards the Circular Economy in Slovenia and creator and team leader of the annual international Circular Change Conference. Ladeja is visiting professor at the Doshisha University in Kyoto, and Co-leader of the Research Group Circular Economy Systems at the Bertalanffy Center for the Study of Systems Science (BCSSS) in Vienna.
Mon, December 02, 2019
India and the Circular Economy (Part 2): Examples from the Off-Grid Solar Industry with Lucyl Staub
It’s time for the second and final episode in our two-part series on the circular economy in India. Last week we were joined by a special guest host, Lucyl Staub to learn about the current state of India and the circular economy. This week, Lucyl returns to guide us through conversations with experts to discover more about the future of circular economy in India. As part of looking ahead, Lucyl also investigates the off-grid solar industry in India, looking at how to encourage the repair, reuse, and remanufacturing of off-grid solar panels. This two-part special makes a great follow up to Episode 005’ Why Asia is Key to the Future of Circular Economy with Adrienna Zsakay’. You can find Adrienna’s episode as well as links to other resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Learn more about CE business actions in the solar industry Transition to a CE in the off-grid solar industry : Lucyl’s thesis (not yet published) Greening the Solar PV value chain in India : Discover what is the Solar Waste Action Plan in India (SWAP) :
Mon, November 25, 2019
India and the Circular Economy (Part 1) with Lucyl Staub
In this special two-part episode, we’re learning about the state of the Circular Economy in India! This episode is a never before on the Getting in the Loop podcast because we have a special guest host, Lucyl Staub. Lucyl and I worked in collaboration on this episode and she will take over for me in a lot of the episode, guiding us through interviews with experts to discover more about how India is moving towards a more circular economy. In this episode (Part One), we’ll discover the current state of circular economy in India. And, in Part Two, we will hear more about the future of circular economy in India as well as from Lucyl about the research that brought her to India in the first place! This episode is a great follow up to Episode 005 ‘Why Asia is Key to the Future of Circular Economy with Adrienna Zsakay’ - and we have to give a great thank you to Adrienna for putting us in contact with some of the interviewees in this episode! You can find Adrienna’s episode as well as links to other resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes on our website at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Lucyl Staub is a young waste management and circular economy professional. She recently graduated from her MSc in Environmental Management and Policy from the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics on top of her MSc in Business Administration from Grenoble Business School.
Mon, November 18, 2019
Open Source Circularity and Creativity with Lars Zimmermann
What does design have to do with a circular economy? Find out from Lars Zimmermann, a self-described Artist, Designer, and Activist. In this episode, you’ll learn about Open Source Circular Economy Days and the workshops Lars runs to engage people in circular economy concepts, including that of ‘pre-use,’ which you’ll hear him explain more in-depth. And last but not least, Lars also shares some exciting news about the work he is doing regarding circular economy education. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Lars Zimmermann is a cofounder of Open Source Circular Economy Days, a global event that started in 2015 to promote open source as the key driver for a circular economy. Based out of Berlin, Germany, he is founder of Mifactori, a design and environmental activism studio.
Mon, November 11, 2019
Redesigning Jeans and Sustainable Denim for a Circular Economy with Jordan Nodarse
Today we’re getting in the loop with Jordan Nodarse, who is the founder of Boyish Jeans and a California native with a deep passion for sustainable practices in fashion. In this episode, Jordan and I dive into Boyish Jeans discussing their production practices and all things circular denim. Jordan takes me through how he initially found out about circular economy and how he now aims to set the standard for production practices with Boyish Jeans. This episode is a great follow-up to Getting in the Loop Episode 003 where Helene Smits and I explored the future of circular fashion. As you will hear, Boyish has adopted many of the practices discussed in that episode. You can find Episode 003 as well as well as the show notes to this episode on our website at gettinginthelooppodcast.com ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Jordan Nodarse launched Boyish Jeans after more than a decade spent learning the ins and outs of the denim industry. Launching one and a half years ago, Boyish Jeans is a collection of sustainable women’s denim. Designed in Los Angeles, each collection is centered on vintage silhouettes with a modern update, all available at an attainable price point. Before starting Boyish, Jordan was the Director of Denim & Special Projects at Reformation.
Mon, November 04, 2019
What is the Circular Economy and Key Principles with Rebecca Kimber
It’s time to go back to some circular economy basics! In this episode, you'll hear how Rebecca Kimber and I explain circular economy, why we were drawn to circular economy in the first place, and what continues to get us excited about it. This episode is a little different from our normal Getting in the Loop episodes because we originally recorded it for Rebecca to use on her website and podcast, and I wanted to share it with you as well. This would be a good episode to share with your friends, family, or colleagues outside of the circular economy bubble as we try not to talk too technical! ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Rebecca Kimber writes about circular economy products, clean living and holistic health on EarthyB.com. She believes products should be better for us, the planet and the economy, and on her website, she shares her own journey of using simple swaps to reduce her eco-impact while also exploring systemic change. HIGHLIGHTS Circular economy basic principles and the two main concepts for circular business models How to slow and close resource flows using cell phones as an example Why individuals alone cannot be responsible for creating a circular economy The importance of design and systems thinking in circular economy Differences between circular economy, zero waste and sustainability Why circular economy has gained significant popularity in Europe and how its viewed in the United States
Mon, October 28, 2019
Rethinking Packaging and Circular Business with Rowan Drury
Hi and welcome to Getting in the Loop. I’m Katie and today I’m talking with Rowan Drury of Sweden’s first plastic package-free shop, Gram. Rowan Drury founded Sweden’s first plastic package-free shop Gram in 2016 after searching for a more sustainable way to buy food. At GRAM Everything is sold loose and by weight. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers so that they do not have to throw away anything when they get home. When she’s not running the shop, Rowan can be found lecturing about zero-waste lifestyles, supporting others in their quest to start up zero-waste shops and initiatives and advise companies about how to reduce their waste and climate impact. In this episode, you will hear about why Rowan started Gram and we dive into the zero-waste lifestyle. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Rowan Drury founded Sweden’s first plastic package-free shop Gram in 2016 after searching for a more sustainable way to buy food. At GRAM Everything is sold loose and by weight. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers so that they don't have to throw away anything when they get home. When she’s not running the shop, Rowan can be found lecturing about zero-waste lifestyles, supporting others in their quest to start up zero-waste shops and initiatives and advise companies about how to reduce their waste and climate impact.
Mon, October 21, 2019
Creating an Open Source Circular Economy with Michel Bauwens
This episode is a crash course in the commons economy with Michel Bauwens of the P2P foundation. Michel introduces me to the concept of P2P and how it can be used to create commons. We discuss how the concept of the commons can be used as a model for governance in the circular economy and you’ll also hear why Michel is cautious of the so-called ‘sharing economy’ popularized by platforms such as Uber and Airbnb. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Michel Bauwens is the founder and director of the P2P Foundation and works in collaboration with a global group of researchers in the exploration of peer production, governance, and property. Michel is also research director of CommonsTransition.org, a platform for policy development aimed toward a society of the Commons. He has (co-)published various books and reports, is a founding member of the Commons Strategies Group, and recently crafted a Commons Transition Plan for the city of Ghent in Belgium in 2017. Highlights: What is P2P and the commons economy How you can use P2P to create commons Examples of city commons labs and how to use protocols to create urban commons Why Michel is cautious of the so-called ‘sharing economy’ popularized by platforms such as Uber and Airbnb How the commons economy could enable circular systems The three different levels of open contributive systems and four types of ownership Why commons licensing works best for immaterial goods
Mon, October 14, 2019
Managing Circular Supply Chains with Adrian Segens
Today I’m talking with Adrien Segens about supply chain management and managing material risks. In this episode you will hear why having a better understanding of where our products come from and where they end up can help us create a more circular economy. We talk about different ways technology can play in enabling supply chain management and the benefits of supply chain transparency for companies. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Adrien Segens is a Corporate Development Consultant. Since 2008, Adrian has worked with innovative companies in that special place where technology, supply chains and sustainability meet each other. His projects have focused on using innovative technologies to address issues such as supply chain traceability; Smart Assets in Smart Cities; Natural Capital accounting, and corporate environmental reporting. Highlights Meet the RSA How realistic is having an overview of supply chains Block chain, the Internet of Things and the role of technological solutions in managing supply chains Why supply chain management is crucial for circular economy The three big challenges of circular supply chains: location, condition, and availability Benefits of managing risks through supply chain management/ Why it pays to have an overview of your supply chain
Mon, October 07, 2019
Leadership for a Circular Economy with Wayne Visser
Today I’m talking with Prof. Dr Wayne Visser who is the Director of the Sustainable Transformation Lab at Antwerp Management School. In this episode, you will learn the four qualities of leaders and how you as an individual can act as an agent for change, including the four different types of change agents and how to tell which one are you. As you will hear, much of Wayne’s work has focused on leadership for sustainability, which I think is very much relevant for those of you trying to implement circular change. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Prof. Dr Wayne Visser is a globally recognized ‘pracademic’ on sustainable business, author of 29 books and presenter of Closing the Loop, the world’s first feature-length documentary on the circular economy. He currently serves as Professor of Integrated Value at Antwerp Management School, where he also holds the Chair in Sustainable Transformation, supported by BASF, Port of Antwerp and Randstad. He is a Fellow of the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, Director of Kaleidoscope Futures and Founder of CSR International. Previous roles were as Director of Sustainability Services for KPMG and Strategy Analyst for Capgemini in South Africa. Highlights Projects at the Sustainable Transformation Lab related to circular economy The Corporate Leadership Group on circular economy Four things leaders do to inspire change How to be a circular economy champion at any level and the individual as change agent Four types of change agents How to tell your change agent type
Mon, September 30, 2019
What is the Circular Economy Game In the Loop? with Katherine Whalen
Today I’m sharing the story of the In the Loop circular economy game! In this solocast episode you’ll hear why the In the Loop game was created, how the game became a reality, and why I’m a fan of gamification. I share how the In the Loop game helps players to start thinking about moving towards a circular –rather than linear- economy and who’s been playing. Highlights 1:45 Who am I? 4:00 The In the Loop game story 7:00 What are critical raw materials? 13:00 How the game works 17:00 Who has been using this 19:30 Evaluating In the Loop in use 21:00 Important tips about using In the Loop
Mon, September 23, 2019
Accelerating Circular Economy in the USA with Kate Daly
Today we’re welcoming Kate Daly of Closed Loop Partners to the podcast. In this episode you will learn about how Closed Loop Partners is working with US companies to help accelerate the transition to a circular economy. Kate tells us why companies are motivated to work on circularity and shares examples of recent projects including a challenge to ‘Reinvent the Paper Cup’ as part of the NExt Gen consortium founded by McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Closed Loop Partners. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Kate Daly is the Executive Director of the Center for the Circular Economy at Closed Loop Partners, an impact investment firm. The Center is a hub for circular business acceleration, investment, and research in packaging, food, the built environment, and apparel & textiles. Prior to joining Closed Loop Partners, Kate served as Senior Vice President at the NYC Economic Development Corporation. At NYCEDC Kate led a team launching innovative business development programs in sectors including fashion, tech, sustainability, media, and advanced manufacturing. Kate previously served as the Executive Director of the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. HIGHLIGHTS 2:30 Kate’s impressions from the World Circular Economy Forum 2019 3:45 What is happening in the USA regarding circular economy 5:00 Why the US private sector is motivated to move towards a circular economy 10:40 How Closed Loop Partners is working with brands to advance circularity 15:00 Bringing together competitors in the NExt Gen consortium and the challenge to ‘Reinvent the Paper’ cup 23:00 Benefits of (digital) material passports and examples in practice 27:30 Next steps for widespread acceptance of the circular economy
Mon, September 16, 2019
Moving to a Circular Economy with Walter Stahel (Part 2)
In Part Two of our special two-part episode, we return with the founding father of the Performance Economy Dr. Walter Stahel. Today we learn about the work he is currently doing to accelerate the transition to a more circular economy. You will hear about his new book, The Circular Economy: A User’s Guide, including why he was motivated to write the book in the first place and why he thinks the most important part of circular economy is YOU. Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Dr. Walter R. Stahel is founder and director of the Product-Life Institute (Switzerland), the oldest established consultancy in Europe devoted to developing sustainable strategies and policies. He is a visiting professor at the University of Surrey (UK), a full member of the Club of Rome, and author of numerous publications,, including his recent book The Circular Economy: A User’s Guide. HIGHLIGHTS 2:00 How the World Circular Economy Forum 2017 motivated Walter to write his new book 10:30 Moving from (Extended Producer) Responsibility to Liability for a circular transition 17:00 How to change business models to increase profitability using the tricks of the Performance Economy 21:00 Why we need to move away from silo-thinking 26:00 Why achieving a circular economy starts with finding ways to motivate individuals
Mon, September 09, 2019
Moving to a Circular Economy with Walter Stahel (Part 1)
In this special two-part episode, we hear from the founding father of the Performance Economy Dr. Walter Stahel. In today’s episode (Part One), we learn about Walter’s background, how his work on the performance economy began, and his experience finding arguments to convince people that buying performance rather than products makes sense for business as well as the environment. I also announce the winner of our special book giveaway in collaboration with Catherine Weetman! Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Dr. Walter R. Stahel is founder and director of the Product-Life Institute (Switzerland), the oldest established consultancy in Europe devoted to developing sustainable strategies and policies. He is a visiting professor at the University of Surrey (UK), a full member of the Club of Rome, and author of numerous publications,, including his recent book The Circular Economy: A User’s Guide. HIGHLIGHTS 4:30 Walter’s background and how he became passionate about the performance economy 10:00 How to create wealth and wellbeing with much less resource consumption 14:30 Best practice examples of performance business cases 19:30 Behind the scenes with the fascinating story of single use cameras 21:00 Social benefits from creating performance business models 24:30 What has surprised Walter the most over the past forty years
Mon, September 02, 2019
Packaging and plastics in a circular economy with Olaf Boerner
Today we’re talking with Olaf Boerner about plastics and packaging in a circular economy. In this episode, you will learn about current trends in the plastics industry and packaging sector, discover what it means to be plastic free and the tradeoffs associated with it, and hear about practicalities related to recycling plastics. Get ready to be shocked when you find out what things you use everyday that contain plastic! Resources and links discussed in this episode are available at gettingintheloopodcast.com ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Olaf Boerner is the head of business development at flustix, which tests and certifies plastic-free products as well as products made with recycled plastics to help reduce plastic waste worldwide. Olaf has previously worked as a consultant in the fields of Sustainability and International Education with a special focus on growth projects. HIGHLIGHTS 5:00 Trends in reducing, replacing, and recycling plastics 12:30 What is flustix and plastic-free 14:15 Addressing the growing consumer demand for plastic-free 16:00 Is plastic-free the way to be? 20:15 What is a certification and how flustix works 22:45 Certifying recycling content and challenges with recycling 30:30 Where to buy certified plastic-free or recycled plastic products
Mon, August 19, 2019
Circular IT and Closing the Loop with Joost De Kluijver
Joost de Kluijver joins us on the podcast today! Joost is the founder and CEO of the social enterprise Closing the Loop (CTL), which has developed a service that delivers on the growing demand for circular IT. Prior to founding CTL, Joost worked for Accenture and the Global Reporting Initiative. In this episode, you will learn about the work Joost and his organization CTL is doing to enable proper collection and recycling of African e-waste and find out how their service provides a solution for circular procurement of IT in Europe. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . HIGHLIGHTS 2:20 Why it is important to close the loop on electronics 7:15 How Closing the Loop delivers value to two customer groups 9:45 Circular IT services and work with brands such as Samsung 12:30 Supply chain certification tools and collection 14:30 Challenges of setting up IT collection systems in Africa 17:30 Why electronic waste recycling has yet to happen in Africa 23:00 Common misconceptions about e-waste in Europe and Africa 26:00 The future of circular IT
Mon, August 05, 2019
Empowering People and Brands to Create a Circular Economy with Peter Wang Hjemdahl
Today we’re talking about plastics consumption and recycling with Peter Wang Hjemdahl of rePurpose. In this episode, you will hear about the work Peter is doing to empower informal urban waste workers and raise awareness with plastic consumers. You will also learn about why you should find out more about your own plastic consumption and the importance of knowing what happens to your plastic. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Peter Wang Hjemdahl is a social entrepreneur and is cofounder of rePurpose, which is a social enterprise that aims to create a global community of conscious consumers, workplaces & businesses that are going #PlasticNeutral. Peter has an MBA from The Wharton School. HIGHLIGHTS 3:30 Estimate your plastic footprint in three minutes 5:45 How rePurpose began and why they decided to focus on India 8:00 Current state of informal plastics recycling in India 13:30 How rePurpose works with recyclers 16:20 Making consumers aware of plastics and recycling 22:30 Ways to reduce your own plastic consumption 28:00 How to join the rePurpose movement in rethinking plastics
Mon, July 22, 2019
How to Invest in Circular Business with Andrea Brown
Andrea Brown of the impact investment manager Quadia joins us on the podcast today! In this episode, you will learn about impact investing, hear Andrea’s thoughts on promising new business models that can help the transition to a more circular economy, and find out why circular finance has received a lot of attention lately. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Andrea Brown is Director of Impact for Quadia. Quadia is a pioneer investment manager allocating private and institutional wealth into investment strategies that are helping to accelerate the circular and regenerative economy. Andrea brings over ten years of working with global fortune 500 companies on sustainability strategy at the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. There she led the development of WBCSD’s circular economy program, Factor10 bringing together CEOs from over 40 companies, including Dow, P&G, DSM, Philips, IKEA, Unilever, Veolia, Danone and more. She developed the CEO Guide to the Circular Economy and is a regular speaker on circular economy and sustainability at global events. HIGHLIGHTS 3:00 Using finance to help scale the circular economy 5:45 Linear risks that the circular economy can avoid 8:00 What is impact investing and how is it different from traditional investment? 12:30 Quantifying the impact of circular businesses and trends in sustainable finance 16:30 Entrepreneurship and value creation in a circular economy through collaboration 19:30: Making the business case for circular business models 23:15 Visions for transitioning to a circular economy
Mon, July 08, 2019
Circular Material Marketplaces with Christian van Maaren
In this episode, Christian van Maaren tells us about the economic and environmental benefits of reusing waste materials and how his company Excess Materials Exchange has helped to reuse over 70,000 tonnes of materials. You will learn about how to create value from and find new uses for materials once thought of as waste and hear about Christian’s mission to redefine waste. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . Update: Since recording the podcast, Excess Materials Exchange has finished conducting the pilot study discussed in the podcast. In terms of the potential impact of the pilot, here are the final findings: · Identified financial value equivalent to €64 million · Energy savings equivalent to the energy consumption of the city lights in Paris for five years · Water savings equivalent to 860 Olympic-size swimming pools · CO2 savings equivalent to almost 870,000 car rides from Amsterdam to Milan ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST Christian van Maaren is co-founder of Excess Materials Exchange. The company aims to find new uses for waste materials by connecting stakeholders and has created value for unused materials in various industries and sectors including plastics, textiles, and construction. HIGHLIGHTS 3:00 Meet the ‘Tinder’ of the circular economy that matches secondary material supply with demand 5:30 Quantifying the resources saved by reusing materials 8:00 Plastics, textiles, organic waste, and other materials that can be reused 10:30 How technology enables track and trace of resources flows 16:00 Going beyond a platform to match supply and demand of secondary materials 17:15 How excess materials are driving the transition to a circular economy 20:30 Eight challenges to implementing material reuse platforms 26:00 Legislative barriers to reuse of materials 32:00 Rethinking our views of waste to enable a more circular economy
Mon, June 24, 2019
Rethinking Business and Circular Economy with John A. Lanier
Today I am thrilled to welcome John A. Lanier, the Executive Director of the Ray C. Anderson foundation. John works to advance the legacy of Ray, his grandfather, whom you might recognize as the founder of carpet tile manufacturer Interface, Inc. Twenty years ago, Ray detailed his and Interface’s sustainability journey in his book Mid-Course Correction , and John has now released an update called Mid-Course Correction Revisited . In today’s podcast, John and I discuss Ray’s legacy, what has happened in the 20 years since Ray first documented his journey, and John’s vision for the future. Resources and links discussed in this episode can be found at gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST John A. Lanier is the Executive Director of the Ray C. Anderson Foundation, a Georgia-based private family foundation honoring the legacy of the late Ray C. Anderson. Ray, who was John’s grandfather, was the founder and CEO of Interface, Inc. the world’s largest manufacturer of carpet tile and a leading company committed to environmental sustainability. John shares his late grandfather’s passion for Earth and her natural systems, and he is the author of Mid-Course Correction Revisited , released this year to explore what it will take to create prototypical companies and economies of the 21st Century. HIGHLIGHTS 4:30 Ray C. Anderson’s legacy and the work of the Ray C. Anderson Foundation 6:30 Interface’s sustainable business journey and transformation 11:15 Picking up where Ray’s story left-off 14:00 Moving from company examples to a macro-economic perspective 20:20 Making the change to a more circular economy happen 25:00 Ways to shift culture and change mindset within companies 30:00 Recognizing the limitations of an abundance mindset
Mon, June 17, 2019
Designing for Circular Economy and Systems Thinking with Leyla Acaroglu
Sustainability strategist, designer, and social change agent Leyla Acaroglu joins us on the podcast today! In this episode, you’ll hear about Leyla’s exciting work to make sustainable design understandable and desirable, and you’ll learn how design and systems thinking can help us move towards a more circular economy. For show-related links and resources head to: gettinginthelooppodcast.com ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Designer, sociologist, sustainability provocateur, and 2016 United Nations Champion of the Earth, Dr. Leyla Acaroglu challenges people to think differently about how the world works. As a pioneer of creative change, she weaves together sustainability, design, and systems thinking to challenge the way people see the world. She is the founder of Disrupt Design , The UnSchool , and CO Project Farm . HIGHLIGHTS 2:45 Bringing sustainable living practices to life through the CO Project Farm 11:15 Understanding the impacts of design decisions and making sustainable design cool 17:45 What needs to happen to reach a more circular economy 20:30 Designing learning systems and tools for the circular economy 25:00 Preparing future generations to create more sustainable solutions 29:00 Gaps in current circular economy discussions 32:15 Workshops, fellowships, and online training to level up your career and systems thinking skills
Mon, June 10, 2019
Top 5 Takeaways from the World Circular Economy Forum with Katherine Whalen
I'm recapping what happened last week at the 2019 World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF2019) in Helsinki, Finland. In this episode, you will hear about the World Circular Economy Forum and learn my top takeaways from the event. ABOUT THE HOST Hi, I'm Katie Whalen, founder of In the Loop Games AB. I aim to make education for sustainable development understandable and fun, and my first game-based learning tool was the IN THE LOOP game. I'm finishing a PhD at Lund University where I researched business models for circular economy as part of the MISTRA REES project. HIGHLIGHTS My top five takeaways from the WCEF2019: CE has truly become a global topic. . Design is crucial if CE is going to succeed. Consumers can make or break CE business models. What kind of CE do we want to create? Centralized or Distributive? We still have room to improve if we want to make a systemic change.
Mon, June 03, 2019
How Artificial Intelligence Can Help Create a More Circular Economy with Johanna Reimers
Johanna Reimers, CEO of Refind Technologies, reflects on the role of technology in creating a more circular economy. In this episode, you’ll hear how Refind Technologies is using machine learning and AI to help companies undertake repair, remanufacturing and recycling. And, don’t miss the fascinating reason why Refind Technologies also knows a lot about fish as well as batteries! For more information and show notes visit http://gettinginthelooppodcast.com . ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Johanna Reimers is CEO of Refind Technologies since 2015, which she co-founded in 2014. She has an M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering and Management from Chalmers University of Technology and worked as an IT consultant and project manager for about ten years prior to working in the recycling business with Optisort, a former version of Refind, in 2013. HIGHLIGHTS 2:30 Introduction to Refind Technologies 4:00 How to teach a machine to sort batteries 7:30 Why Refind Technologies knows a lot about fish in addition to batteries 14:30 Enabling circular repair and remanufacturing with automation technology 18:00 How Refind Technologies introduced the world’s first reverse vending machine for batteries 25:30 Challenges and opportunities for circular technology 33:15 The future of AI and mission recognition for circular economy
Mon, May 27, 2019
Circular Fashion, Zero Waste, and Closing Textile Loops with Lynn Wilson
Today on the podcast we’re chatting with Lynn Wilson about circular textiles and diving into the design and production side, talking about zero waste fashion and recycling. We also talk about the consumption side of things, looking at what we’re doing in our wardrobes and how we look after and dispose of our clothing. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Lynn Wilson is a designer, researcher and circular economy specialist. From 2013 to 2017 she was part of the Circular Economy team at Zero Waste Scotland where she implemented a national circular economy textiles strategy. She is currently a PhD researcher at the Adam Smith Business School, Glasgow University. HIGHLIGHTS 4:30 Lynn’s background and journey to her current research 12:00 Tech for zero waste textiles production – is it happening? 19:00 Opportunities for reuse and second-hand clothing and why some customers say no to secondhand 31:30 What you can do and shifting to a ‘Buyerarchy of Needs’ by borrowing, renting or leasing 35:30 Looking towards the future and challenges with closing loops in textiles and apparel
Sun, May 19, 2019
What Circular Economy Can Learn from Lean and Green Thinking with Keivan Zokaei
Today on the show we’re diving into the world of lean thinking with lean and green expert Dr. Keivan Zokaei. In this episode we learn about what it means to be lean and green, diving into the Japanese roots of lean thinking and exploring what we can learn from the concept when it comes to the circular economy. Links and resources related to this episode are available at http://gettinginthelooppodcast.com. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Dr. Keivan Zokaei is partner at S A Partners and is a lean thinker, management consultant and author. Keivan has over 15 years of experience in lean thinking, specializing in operations and supply chain management. He has led transformation projects working with organisations including Wartsila, Unilever, Royal Bank of Scotland, WalMart, Scottish Government, Welsh Assembly Government, Tesco, Marks and Spencer, Kraft, MARS, and Sainsbury’s. Previously Keivan was director at the Lean Enterprise Research Centre at Cardiff University. He is also the 2014 recipient of the prestigious Shingo Research and Professional Publication Award. HIGHLIGHTS 4:30 What is lean? What does it mean to be lean? 9:00 What does it mean to be lean and green - and why do initiatives fail? 15:00 Saving resources and money: examples of lean and green from practice 30:00 The most overlooked part of circular economy
Mon, May 13, 2019
Where to Study Circular Economy and CE Education Courses Around the World with Tim Forslund
Tim Forslund tells us about the ‘Learning Landscape Research’ he conducted at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation where he spent six months investigating the circular economy learning offerings that are available both online and at higher education institutions. Tune in to find out which two unexpected countries are leading the way with circular economy learning offerings and hear how circular economy concepts are currently being taught around the world. About the Guest Tim Forslund is an Environmental Officer at the Embassy of Sweden in Beijing. He previously I worked as a Research Analyst at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, mapping and analysing circular economy learning in higher education and creating content for the China programme. Highlights 3:30 The why and how behind the Learning Landscape Research 10:45 How Finland and the Netherlands are leading the way as places to study circular economy 12:45 Examples of courses around the world and what we can learn from how circular economy is being taught 17:30 What educators think is most important when teaching circular economy concepts 20:45 Future trends and opportunities for linking finance, law, and digital to circular economy
Mon, May 06, 2019
Is There Enough Cobalt for Electric Cars and Can Circular Economy Help? with Katherine Whalen
Today we’re doing something new! I’m recapping my trip to Cambridge for the one-day ‘Future of electric mobility and material demands’ Short Course organized by SusCritMat. In the past ten years, global sales of electric vehicles have increased yearly. Right now we have more than 4 million electric vehicles on the road globally, and by 2040, there could be up to 900 million electric vehicles. But will the supply of battery materials such as lithium and cobalt be able to keep up with the demand for electric vehicles? Tune in to this week’s episode to uncover this question and more issues surrounding this topic. HIGHLIGHTS 4:40 Will supply be able to match demand of cobalt and lithium? 8:30 Is circular economy a solution? 12:45 What other potential changes and solutions are there?
Mon, April 29, 2019
From Construction Waste to Second Life: Making Reuse of Building Materials Happen with Joe Connell
Today we’re talking about building materials reuse with Joe Connell, Executive Director of the Building Materials Reuse Association (BMRA). Tune in to hear about opportunities, challenges and trends regarding building deconstruction and materials reuse, and learn about the BMRA’s upcoming conference. About the Guest Joe Connell is the Executive Director of the Building Materials Reuse Association (BMRA). Joe has 20 years of experience in the reuse industry, with accomplishments that include helping to launch several local reuse groups in Portland, Oregon, and serving on the City of Portland’s Deconstruction Advisory Group to pass the nation’s first deconstruction ordinance. Highlights 2:45 What is the Building Materials Reuse Association? 5:30 Overview of building materials reuse in the USA – materials and sectors 9:30 Benefits of deconstruction and reuse 13:30 Is deconstruction really new? 15:15 How to deconstruct a building & hybrid deconstruction 18:15 Buildings as material banks in Europe and the US 21:00 Upcoming activities at the BMRA 24:00 Material marketplaces, business opportunities and challenges
Mon, April 22, 2019
How to Move from "Take, Make, Waste" to Circular Business Models and Supply Chains with Catherine Weetman
Earth Day giveaway! Today we’re speaking with Catherine Weetman about implementing circular economy in practice and what she has learned from working with SMEs. We talk about her book Circular Economy: A Handbook for Business and Supply Chains: Repair, Remake, Redesign, Rethink and Catherine has given me a copy to giveaway to one lucky listener! To have a chance at winning, all you need to do is leave a review on this podcast’s iTunes page. Listen to the episode or head over to the show notes at http://www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com to find out more about the giveaway. ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST Catherine Weetman is the Director of Rethink Solutions, a circular economy focused business consultancy based in the UK. Catherine has over 25 years' experience in contract logistics, manufacturing, retail and supply chain consultancy, and her career spans food, fashion and logistics, including Tesco, Kellogg's and DHL Supply Chain. She is also a Visiting Fellow at the University of Huddersfield and Vice-Chair of the Environment and Sustainability forum of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, UK. HIGHLIGHTS 2:00 How to engage companies in circular economy 6:00 Common mistakes companies make when trying to go circular 10:00 Deep dive into Catherine’s book ‘A Circular Economy Handbook for Business and Supply Chains’ 17:00 Promising and challenging sectors for moving towards the circular economy 20:00 Shifting from a sales mentality to life-cycle costing 22:30 Power of the crowd and citizen-led initiatives spurred by social media
Mon, April 15, 2019
How Policy Can Help Create a More Circular Economy with Leonidas Milios
Leonidas Milios is a researcher at the International In at Lund University in Sweden focusing on the management and policy aspects of resources. His research is part of the Mistra REES programme, which consists of three leading Swedish universities and a wide range of industry, governance and civil society partners. Leonidas previously worked as a consultant for the European Commission and the European Environment Agency. HIGHLIGHTS What do we mean by circular economy and strategies to make products and resources last longer [2:30] What is a policy? [7:30] Moving from waste management to waste prevention - how the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and EcoDesign can help support durability and repairability [10:00] Why non-EU manufacturers should also care about the EcoDesign directive [17:00] How France and Sweden are paving the way with repair and reuse legislation [18:15] Outlook on future policies to promote repair and right to repair [25:00] What is the environmental benefit to using products longer? [34:30] Five key takeaways and recommendations to encourage repair and reuse [36:15]
Mon, April 08, 2019
Courses and Resources to Teach Sustainable Materials Management and Circular Economy with Alessandra Hool
Alessandra Hool is the CEO of the ESM Foundation. The foundation has existed since 1951 and is dedicated to support research and development activities in the field of rare and critical elements. In pursuit of this goal, the Foundation develops and coordinates projects in the field of rare and critical elements, such as the European education project SusCritMat. HIGHLIGHTS How the SusCritMat project is helping industry professionals, educators, and researchers address material criticality [3:00] Online videos and courses you can take part in [8:30] Why sustainable resource management starts with supply chains and how to implement this in practice [9:30] Common misconceptions about critical raw materials [13:30] Upcoming SusCritMat summer course and how you can join [15:15] Experiences from using the In the Loop game with high schoolers at Swiss Tech Days [18:30]
Mon, April 01, 2019
Why Asia is Key to the Future of Circular Economy with Adrienna Zsakay
Adrienna Zsakay is the Executive Director of Circular Economy Asia, which implements circular economy programs and projects in the Asian region. Adrienna has spent many years working across Asia, including in Malaysia, India, Korea and Thailand. HIGHLIGHTS The importance of Asia and what is Circular Economy Asia? [1:00] What countries are doing in regards to circular economy [6:00] Circular Economy Asia’s ongoing projects [10:30] Cultural differences and how approaches differ from country to country [14:15] Initiatives toward circularity and untapped potential [18:15] What’s next and connecting to European initiatives [24:00]
Mon, March 25, 2019
Two Rules for the Circular Economy and Setting System Conditions for an Abundance of Flows with Ken Webster
Ken Webster is a leading expert on the circular economy and author of the book The Circular Economy: A Wealth of Flows. From 2012-2018, he was Head of Innovation at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation where he remains an associate, and he now holds positions at both the University of Exeter and Linkoping University. In this episode, I talk with Ken about the importance of thinking in systems. Do we want to circulate wealth or extract it? How do we ensure we’re setting the right system conditions for the circular economy? Tune in to today’s discussion to find out. For show notes and links visit www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. HIGHLIGHTS Moving towards the circular economy [01:45] Reflections on the surge of interest in circular economy and the challenges ahead [05:30] Two rules for the circular economy and why we need to stop looking for examples [11:25] What are the system conditions for the circular economy? [017:30] How to make the system circular and the need for both big and small flows [22:45] Future visioning and useful links [33:45]
Mon, March 18, 2019
Goodbye Fast Fashion? Redesigning a New Textiles Economy to Make Future Fashion Circular with Helene Smits
In today’s episode, Helene Smits shares about her work with companies and brands to close the loop in the textiles sector. Helene reflects on what brands are currently doing to implement more sustainable business practices, such as using recycled content and addressing environmental impacts of production. She also discusses successes and challenges she’s encountered over the past few years of working with brands to close the loop, and emphasizes the importance of also addressing consumption habits within the textiles and apparel sector - even if that means asking ‘Do I really need this?’ before you make your next purchase. Helene Smits founded Circle Economy’s Textiles Program in 2014 and recently launched her own independent consulting firm called Stating the Obvious. She focuses on collaborative projects that drive the practical implementation of circularity in the industry and works with a wide array of pioneering organisations including Recover, The Alliance for Responsible Denim, Textile Exchange, Amsterdam Fashion Institute and Fashion for Good. Highlights Our existing textiles system [01:45] What brands are currently doing [04:00] Challenges/opportunities for closing the loop in the apparel industry [10:30] New fashion business models and are they really beneficial? [17:25] What you can do – consumption and brands making a change [23:30] Future visions for the textiles sector [28:25]
Mon, March 11, 2019
Join the Circular Economy Club, an International Network of People Making a Circular Economy Happen with Anna Tari
Today on the show we’re speaking with Anna Tari, who is CEO of the Circular Economy Club - a worldwide organization she founded in 2012 for anyone interested in circular economy. Anna discusses what’s she learned about circular economy in the years since the club’s founding, shares (for the first time!) an exciting event they are launching later this year, and explains how you can become a member and even start your own club. For show notes and resources visit www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Highlights What is the Circular Economy Club (CEC)? [02:00] How to start your own local hub [08:50] Connecting local hubs to a global network [09:50] Takeaways from a global mapping of circular economy initiatives [12:30] CEC resources and an upcoming special event to encourage local city action [15:50] Education and work with universities [21:30]
Mon, March 11, 2019
What is a Critical Raw Material and Can We Learn Strategic Materials Management from Historical Examples? with David Peck
In today’s episode, TU Delft Associate Professor David Peck talks about a topic often linked to the circular economy - critical materials. In the show, Dave explains that it’s not about running out of materials and why material criticality should be considered. We reflect on how this relates to the circular economy, and dive into Dave's research on what we can learn from the British response to material shortages in WWII. Show notes and links available at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com. Highlights The importance of critical materials to society [02:30] The ‘Homer Simpson’ moment we face regarding sustainable development [11:30] British material shortages in WWII and strategic response [15:30] What you had to do to get furniture in WWII Britain [22:30] Are these strategies and policies applicable today? [24:00] What we can do and creating awareness [31:00] Upcoming EU regulations [35:00]
Sun, March 03, 2019
Introducing the Getting In the Loop Podcast - The Need for a Circular Economy Podcast
You’ve heard about circular economy, and you’re probably actively working in this space. Maybe you're in education, industry, or policy? You know there’s so much going on. But what’s actually happening? And is it really making a difference? This is the starting point for the Getting in the Loop podcast and I invite you to join me in the search to find out. Each week I interview circular economy experts about what they’re doing and learning. And the best bit - you get to be a part of it! Welcome to the very first episode! In this episode I share about why I started this podcast, who I am, and how it will work. New episodes will be released on Mondays at Noon, CET. You can listen and subscribe at www.gettinginthelooppodcast.com to have each new episode delivered to your inbox. Have an idea for an amazing guest or a topic you’d like me to cover? Email me: katie (at) intheloopgames.com.
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