Tag: zero waste

The Crucial Role of Sustainability in Supply Chains: A New Chapter for the Podcast

As a society, we stand at a pivotal crossroads where the decisions we make today carve the path for future generations. In the midst of this, businesses and consumers alike are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their activities, particularly within the realm of supply chains. It’s this awareness and my deep-seated passion for sustainability that has led me, Tom Raftery, to rebrand the Digital Supply Chain podcast to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, debuting this transformation on January 22nd.

Sustainability in supply chains is not just a buzzword; it’s a critical strategy that’s gaining prominence due to its potential to significantly reduce global emissions and improve our collective footprint on the world. To put it into perspective, supply chains are responsible for over 90% of most companies’ greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Carbon Trust. Addressing this segment is not merely a corporate responsibility; it’s an imperative to ensure a viable planet for our successors.

The urgency of this matter is further underscored by a shift in regulatory landscapes and consumer expectations. Governments worldwide are setting ambitious targets to lower emissions, with regulations becoming increasingly stringent. Consumers are also voting with their wallets, showing a preference for companies that demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship.

However, the journey to a sustainable supply chain is fraught with complexities. It requires a synergy of innovative technology, policy change, and a new mindset. That’s where the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast comes into play. Our mission is to dissect these complexities, bringing to light the best practices, thought leadership, and trends that pave the way for a greener future.

My background in science, combined with nearly 20 years of experience at the intersection of technology and sustainability, has provided me with insights into the nuances of this transformation. The new focus of the podcast is not a departure but an evolution, concentrating on the most pressing issue faced by supply chain professionals today.

Each episode will explore the myriad ways in which organisations can – and are – transforming their supply chains from cost centres into value creators that not only bolster their bottom lines but also contribute to a healthier planet. From efficiency gains and waste reduction to renewable energy adoption and circular economy principles, there’s a wealth of strategies that businesses can employ.

As we move towards the launch of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, it’s imperative to remember that this platform is less about a singular voice and more about a chorus of change-makers who are reshaping the industry. It’s a space for dialogue, learning, and shared ambition to drive meaningful change.

So, I invite you to join me on this journey. Whether you’re a supply chain professional, a sustainability advocate, or simply someone eager to understand how we can make a tangible difference in the world, the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast is your hub for insights and inspiration.

Follow the Digital Supply Chain podcast today to ensure you catch all the episodes of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast when it goes live on January 22nd. Let’s take this step together towards a future where supply chains are not just efficient, but fundamentally sustainable.

Here’s to making a difference, one sustainable link at a time.

Asia’s Untold Renewable Energy Success Story: A Candid Conversation

Asia’s energy transition is a significant and often overlooked aspect of the global fight against climate change. In the latest episode of the Climate Confident podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Assaad Razzouk, CEO of renewable energy company Gurin Energy, host of The Angry Clean Energy Guy podcast, and author of the book Saving the Planet Without the Bullshit. Our conversation explored the ongoing transformation of the energy landscape in Asia and the positive impact it’s having on the environment.

Asia has long been seen as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with much of its power coming from coal-fired power plants. However, the tide is turning, and the region is witnessing a massive shift towards clean, renewable energy. Assaad Razzouk shared his extensive knowledge on this topic and provided valuable insights on Asia’s commitment to building a more sustainable future.

One of the episode’s highlights was our discussion about China’s impressive progress in the renewable energy sector. The country has become a global leader in solar power, with over 250 gigawatts of installed solar capacity. This is particularly evident in the rapid expansion of rooftop solar across China, which has benefited from strong government support and policies. China’s solar revolution is not only reducing its reliance on fossil fuels but also paving the way for other countries in the region to follow suit.

Another key takeaway from the episode was the importance of energy access in Asia’s developing countries. Assaad explained that access to electricity is crucial for lifting people out of poverty and improving their quality of life. Decentralized renewable energy solutions, such as rooftop solar and microgrids, are making it possible for remote communities to access clean, reliable power. This not only benefits the environment but also helps to address social and economic inequalities.

We also touched on the issue of plastics in Asia, a complex and multifaceted problem. Thankfully, many Asian countries have taken strong measures to address this issue, banning or significantly reducing the use of single-use plastics. Assaad pointed out that countries like Indonesia have started implementing legislation to hold manufacturers accountable for their plastic waste, a step that is yet to be taken in other parts of the world, including the United States.

The conversation with Assaad Razzouk was both enlightening and inspiring, revealing the incredible progress Asia has made in its energy transition. This transformation is not only helping to combat climate change but also creating opportunities for economic growth, social development, and a brighter future for millions of people.

I encourage you to listen to the full episode of the Climate Confident podcast to hear our in-depth discussion with Assaad Razzouk and learn more about Asia’s inspiring energy transition. You can find the episode on your favorite podcast platform or visit the Climate Confident podcast website. Don’t forget to subscribe and share the episode with your friends and colleagues to spread the word about the positive impact of renewable energy in Asia.

Finally, if you value receiving weekly actionable insights on sustainability and climate, you can always sign up to be a Supporter of the podcast for less than the cost of a cup of coffee.

Stay climate confident, and let’s make a change together!

Photo credit UNDP Climate on Flickr