The Green Hour: Recent Episodes
Preston Poag Jr.
A community of innovators, activists, and government leaders in the world of sustainability. Each week, Preston Poag interviews leaders of sustainability to discuss their successes, failures, and lessons learned in the pursuit of a greener world.
đŹ âWith environmental DNA, we can measure whether conservation is actually working.â â Angela Gaylard, Head of Biodiversity & Science Support at African Parks.
In Episode 15 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Angela Gaylard, Head of Biodiversity & Science Support at African Parks, to explore how science is reshaping modern conservation across some of the worldâs most critical ecosystems.
This conversation dives into how conservation decisions are made on the groundâand how new tools like environmental DNA are helping bridge the gap between academic science and real-world impact.
đ What youâll hear:
- How African Parks bridges science and on-the-ground conservation management
- Why environmental DNA is transforming biodiversity monitoring
- How scientists measure whether restoration efforts are actually working
- What it takes to restore ecosystem functionalityânot just species counts
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=YQ0Gjj3nG5Dk8JYx
đŹ âWeâve been seeing the people we work with as recipients. How do we give them agency, power, and ownership?â â Mark Viso, CEO of Food for the Hungry
In Episode 14 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Mark Viso, CEO of Food for the Hungry, Inc., to explore how global development is evolving beyond short-term aid toward systems thinking, resilience, and community-led solutions.
With more than 50 years of experience working across 20+ countries, Mark breaks down why traditional development models are no longer enough â and how empowering communities with agency, ownership, and voice is key to long-term impact.
đ What youâll hear:
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Why Food for the Hungry is shifting from project-based aid to systems-level change
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What âresilienceâ really means â from absorbing shocks to transforming entire systems
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How community-led development creates stronger, more sustainable outcomes
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Why U.S. leadership in global development matters for stability, security, and shared values
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The role of innovation, platforms, and emerging technologies in scaling impact
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ly-q3RDy-30?si=W6mJm1g36M9yUY0f
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=1xXMutB2naxMqHCG
đŹ âOur mission has always been about giving people a voice â wherever they are in the world.â â Dan Foy, Principal at Gallup
In Episode 13 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Dan Foy, Principal and Global Research Leader at Gallup, to explore how Gallup has spent nearly a century elevating the voices of people around the world â and why that mission matters more than ever.
From knocking on doors in rural villages to collecting data across 140 countries each year, Dan breaks down how the Gallup World Poll is reshaping our understanding of global well-being, climate anxiety, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the future of youth thriving.
đ What youâll hear:
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Why Gallup still conducts in-person interviews in more than 100 countries
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How the Gallup World Poll measures well-being, food security, financial inclusion, modern slavery, and more
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What rising climate anxiety signals about how people experience environmental change
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The challenge of gathering data from Indigenous communities â and what we lose without those voices
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How climate change is rapidly becoming an economic risk, from insurance markets to household wealth
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=bRLodz5uzA-FNhf1
đŹ âEvery item should find its best home from a circularity perspective.â â Steve Preston, CEO of Goodwill Industries
In Episode 12 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Steve Preston, CEO of Goodwill Industries International, to unpack what really happens behind the scenes at one of Americaâs largest reuse and donation systems â and how Goodwill is positioning itself for the future of circularity.
From what happens the moment you drop off a bag of clothes, to how long items stay on shelves, to the rise of resellers and new fiber-sorting technologies, Steve breaks down the full lifecycle of a donated item â and why it matters for our planet.
đ What youâll hear:
- How Goodwill processes, prices, and moves donated goods through a 4-week retail cycle
- What happens when items donât sell â and how âby-the-poundâ outlets keep materials in circulation
- Why resellers are now one of Goodwillâs most important shopper groups
- The staggering reality that 85% of U.S. textiles end up in landfills
- How advanced sorting technologies could unlock high-volume, fiber-specific circularity
- Where Goodwill fits as EPR legislation and textile recycling evolve across states
- Why keeping goods âin their highest and best useâ is both an economic and environmental win
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=MXsAgXTmWFzzoWY1
đŹ âCulture shapes stories, stories shape leaders, leaders shape policy, and policy shifts the system.â â Michael Sheldrick, Co-Founder of Global Citizen
In Episode 11 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Michael Sheldrick, Co-Founder of Global Citizen, to explore how Global Citizen has mobilized more than 40 million citizen actions, delivered over a billion life-saving interventions, and used the power of pop culture and policy to drive real global change.
đ What youâll hear:
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How Global Citizen grew from student activism to a worldwide movement
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How culture, music, and storytelling influence global policy
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Why people still believe in cooperation and solidarity despite global challenges
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Insights from his new book "From Ideas to Impact" and how anyone can become a âpolicy entrepreneurâ
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
Get a copy of "From Ideas to Impact": https://michaelsheldrick.com/book/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=1Y_XnjSjWj0lS7yx
đŹ âClimate action is not left or right â itâs a moral duty.â â IvĂĄn Duque MĂĄrquez, Former President of Colombia
In Episode 10 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with IvĂĄn Duque, former President of Colombia, to discuss how he became the youngest president in the nationâs history â and how he used his tenure to transform Colombia into one of Latin Americaâs climate leaders.
From passing the Climate Action Law and launching Colombiaâs green taxonomy, to creating military environmental protection units and expanding protected areas across land and sea, this conversation dives deep into the policies, vision, and conviction behind one of the regionâs most ambitious climate agendas.
đ What youâll hear:
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How a lifelong dream led Duque to the presidency at age 41
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The policies that helped Colombia meet 30x30 ahead of schedule
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How renewable energy capacity expanded by more than 100x
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The creation of Colombiaâs Climate Action Law and climate cabinet
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Why natural assets must be treated as national security assets
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The story behind the Concordia Amazon Initiative
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Duqueâs warning about ideological leadership threatening climate progress
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=DcLziM0kL590JcRy
đŹ âWe can reduce the consumption of oil about 6 million barrels a day.â â Ben Richardson, CEO of Sulnox Group
In Episode 9 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Ben Richardson, CEO of Sulnox Group, to explore how improving combustion across gasoline, diesel, marine, and even aviation fuels could reduce emissions todayânot decades from now. We discuss the technology behind cleaner combustion, what it means for global air quality, and why this matters in the race to reduce fossil fuel dependence.
đ What youâll hear:
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How optimized combustion could cut oil consumption by 6 million barrels a day
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Why incomplete combustion drives COâ, particulate matter, and black smoke
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How Sulnoxâs biodegradable fuel conditioner cleans and oxygenates fuel for a more complete burn
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Real-world results showing fuel savings and emissions reductions across diesel fleets, marine vessels, and power generators
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Why combustion efficiency is a crucial bridge while renewable and electrified systems scale
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=F4DugCoX-RvHXs1l
đŹ âSlavery isnât an 18th-century problem â itâs a 21st-century reality.â â John Schultz
In Episode 8 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with John Schultz, Chief Operating and Legal Officer at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, to discuss how modern slavery continues to exist in global supply chains â and how HPE is using technology, transparency, and accountability to confront it head-on.
đ What youâll hear:
- Why modern slavery remains hidden in plain sight
- How companies can build human rights due diligence into their supply chains
- The role of technology and AI in tracing forced labor
- How circularity and reuse are transforming HPEâs data centers
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_JhhoYmXLxI?si=B0yGBKqupWzAJjDm
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=BOStFvPJWExrgynQ
đŹ âSigning the Paris Agreement was one of the most consequential documents I signed as President.â - Kolinda Grabar-KitaroviÄ
In episode 7 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Kolinda Grabar-KitaroviÄ, Former President of Croatia, to explore how climate change, diplomacy, and global security intersect on the world stage. From her role in signing the Paris Agreement to her work with NATO, the UN, and the International Olympic Committee, Madam President shares her perspective on leadership, sustainability, and the urgent need for global cooperation.
đ What youâll hear:
- Why climate change is a growing security threat driving migration and instability
- How the Paris Agreement shaped Croatiaâs sustainability agenda
- The link between sustainable development and lasting peace
- How global institutions like NATO and the IOC are adapting to a changing climate
- Why sustainability is now a core criterion in selecting future Olympic host cities
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u2k5ZLn65sw?si=V6Uk0-SfTZf1SbO6
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=NgaDA0Wl5zsqWuau
đŹ âWeâve only built 10% of whatâs needed for net zero.â
In episode 6 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Mekala Krishnan, Partner at McKinsey Global Institute, to explore how climate adaptation and the clean energy transition must advance together â and why weâve only built 10% of whatâs needed to reach net zero by 2050.
đ What youâll hear:
- Why weâve only deployed 10% of the technologies needed for net zero by 2050
- How adaptation and mitigation are converging as one global agenda
- The massive physical and financial challenges behind scaling renewables
- Why energy security, affordability, and competitiveness must go hand-in-hand
- What gives her optimism about global progress toward climate goals
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Annual Summit in New York City.
________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=e4X9TtQvjzEGmmkS
đŹ âIf people donât see the issue, they donât know about it.â
In episode 5 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Krista Krieger, Executive Director of Empowers Africa, to discuss how her organization connects donors to high-impact conservation and community projects across Africa â and why transparency, storytelling, and local empowerment are at the heart of their mission.
đ What youâll hear:
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How Empowers Africa bridges global philanthropy with grassroots action
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Why being âall female run and female governedâ shapes their approach to impact
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The power of film in driving awareness, including their short documentaries now streaming on Apple TV and Amazon Prime
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How accountability and on-the-ground visits ensure funds reach the people and projects that need them most
This episode was recorded at the 15th Annual Concordia Summit in New York City. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch on YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=ySf_InkdxFu0qsZ3
âYou canât build a clean energy future if you abandon the communities that powered the old one.â
In episode 4 of our Concordia Summit Series, we sit down with Dr. Joseph Curtin, VP of Energy Transitions at The Rockefeller Foundation, to explore the future of the global carbon market â and why we need it to deliver on real decarbonization, not just accounting wins.
đ What youâll hear:
- A deep dive into the rise â and fall â of trust in the voluntary carbon market, and what it takes to rebuild credibility.
- An explanation of the pioneering concept of the âenergy transition creditâ â how retiring a coal plant, replacing it with dispatchable clean power, and engaging the workforce gives us a new model.
- Why a âjust transitionâ isnât optional â how lives, communities, and supply chains matter just as much as emissions numbers.
- The role that philanthropies, standards bodies, and national governments must play to make this work.
- Short- vs. long-term economics of making coal to clean conversions viable.
________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
đ„ Watch the episode: https://youtu.be/bh9wrW6jbXc?si=yFqfpIrUzxE3l6md
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=bNFWs0XdLSYN5Ava
âThe environmental solutions that last are the ones that improve peopleâs lives right away.â
LIVE from the 2025 Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Amanda Leland, Executive Director of the Environmental Defense Fund, to discuss her new book, Sea Change: Unlikely Allies and a Success Story of Oceanic Proportions.
Sea Change tells the powerful true story of how fishermen, scientists, and environmentalists came together to save collapsing fisheries and restore abundance to the oceans. The book reveals how collaboration and trust transformed former adversaries into allies for sustainability. Through real-life stories like that of âBuddyâ Guindon, it shows that even the most divided groups can find common ground when livelihoods and the planet are on the line. Sea Change is both a call to action and a reminder that hopeâand changeâcan start with a single conversation.
đ Get your copy today: https://www.torreyhouse.org/sea-change ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
đ Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
YouTube:
đ„ Watch more from the Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=kADV54T6xZ7YNLJo
How can humanity restore its broken relationship with nature? đ
In Episode 2 of The Summit Series â25, we sit down with Tim Christophersen, VP of Climate Action at Salesforce, to discuss his new book, Generation Restoration: How to Fix Our Relationship Crisis with Mother Nature.
With a foreword by Dr. Jane Goodall, this book explores how individuals, companies, and communities can move from exploitation to regenerationâtransforming the way we live, build, and grow on this planet.
Through science, storytelling, and real-world examples, Generation Restoration reveals how restoring ecosystems is not just an environmental necessity but a profound opportunity to heal our economies, communities, and ourselves. Itâs a call to action for anyone ready to reimagine humanityâs role as a regenerative force on Earth.
đ Get your copy today: https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Generatio... ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
WEBSITE: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/8PL0fXOLLUs?si=mm3SvIUCjA6q7uSA
đ„ Watch more from The Summit Series â25: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyEFCys09rl4OiibZgERPLdB&si=St4eDtDENb4Ax5YH
LIVE from the 2025 Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Matthew Swift, Co-founder and CEO of Concordia. In this episode, Matt Swift reflects on the 15th Annual Concordia Summit, the platformâs evolution as a hub for cross-sector collaboration, and the rising urgency of environmental solutions in todayâs global agenda.
He also unveils the creation of Concordiaâs Amazonas Summit, an initiative dedicated to protecting the Amazon Rainforest and advancing sustainable development across the region.
________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
WEBSITE: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/sAWfU7M3ZRE?si=j_gBwfwrBkSsrXe8
CHECK OUT LAST YEAR'S SUMMIT SERIES: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyGkKA5MJSZYItJKTJppQh0B&si=SWrsYtOFYZJ5WMya
Episode 6 | The Road to COP30 â A Series with The Nature Conservancy
In the final episode of our six-part Road to COP30 series, The Green Hour Podcast sits down with two leaders from The Nature Conservancy:
- Beatriz Granziera, Senior International Climate Policy Advisor
- Julio Giraldo, Carbon Markets Lead, Latin America
đ§ In this episode, we explore:
- How carbon markets channel private sector resources into nature and communities
- Why transparency and monitoring are critical for high-quality carbon credits
- The Nature Conservancyâs approach to ensuring integrity and impact in carbon markets
- Lessons from Chileâs REDD+ project on protecting ecosystems at scale
âĄïž Subscribe to The Green Hour Podcast and follow the full Road to COP30 series for more in-depth conversations with global sustainability leaders. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Founded in 1951 in the United States, TNC partners with local communities, governments, and private businesses to protect biodiversity and address climate change through various methods, including land purchases, conservation easements, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Important Links
The Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
The Green Hour Podcast website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
Episode 5 | The Road to COP30 â A Series with The Nature Conservancy
In the fifth episode of our six-part Road to COP30 series, The Green Hour Podcast sits down with three conservation leaders from The Nature Conservancy:
- Galo Medina â Program Director, Ecuador
- Fernanda Bortolotto â Climate Policy Specialist, Brazil
- Carolina Polania â Community-Based Conservation Specialist, Colombia
đ§ In this episode, we explore:
- Indigenous guardianship of biodiversity and their role in halting deforestation
- The funding gap: why Indigenous organizations receive less than 1% of climate finance
- Policy reforms and the push for Indigenous participation in global climate decisions
- Ecuadorâs Amazon BioCorridor Program, co-designed with Indigenous communities to blend science and traditional knowledge
- Innovative financing tools like nature bonds to address climate, biodiversity, and debt crises simultaneously
Note: This episode was recorded prior to the Ecuadorian National Environmental Authorityâs transition to the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
âĄïž Subscribe to The Green Hour Podcast and follow the full Road to COP30 series for more in-depth conversations with global sustainability leaders. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Founded in 1951 in the United States, TNC partners with local communities, governments, and private businesses to protect biodiversity and address climate change through various methods, including land purchases, conservation easements, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Important Links
The Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
The Green Hour Podcast website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
[In Portuguese]
EpisĂłdio 4 | O Caminho para a COP30 â Uma SĂ©rie com a The Nature Conservancy
No quarto episĂłdio da nossa sĂ©rie de seis partes, conversamos com Lisa Ferguson, Diretora de Economias Regenerativas e Finanças ComunitĂĄrias da The Nature Conservancy, e Juliana SimĂ”es, Gerente Adjunta de EstratĂ©gia para Povos IndĂgenas e Comunidades Locais.
đ§ Neste episĂłdio, exploramos:
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Como a sociobioeconomia oferece um caminho de desenvolvimento justo e sustentĂĄvel para a AmazĂŽnia
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O papel de diversas cadeias de valor â do açaĂ Ă castanha-do-parĂĄ â na proteção da biodiversidade e no fomento de economias locais prĂłsperas
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O Plano de Bioeconomia pioneiro do ParĂĄ e seu potencial para se tornar um modelo global de desenvolvimento inclusivo e baseado na natureza
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Por que empoderar povos indĂgenas e comunidades locais Ă© essencial para escalar soluçÔes sustentĂĄveis ââna AmazĂŽnia
âĄïž Assine o Podcast The Green Hour e acompanhe a sĂ©rie completa "Caminho para a COP30" para conversas mais aprofundadas com lĂderes globais em sustentabilidade.
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Sobre o Podcast The Green Hour
O Podcast The Green Hour Ă© uma plataforma global que conecta lĂderes em sustentabilidade dos setores pĂșblico, privado e sem fins lucrativos para compartilhar insights sobre soluçÔes sustentĂĄveis. Com uma audiĂȘncia crescente em seis continentes, o The Green Hour continua na vanguarda das discussĂ”es globais sobre ação ambiental.
Sobre a The Nature Conservancy
A The Nature Conservancy (TNC) é uma organização ambiental global sem fins lucrativos que trabalha para conservar as terras e åguas das quais toda a vida depende. Fundada em 1951 nos Estados Unidos, a TNC faz parcerias com comunidades locais, governos e empresas privadas para proteger a biodiversidade e combater as mudanças climåticas por meio de diversos métodos, incluindo aquisição de terras, servidÔes de conservação e promoção de pråticas sustentåveis.
Links importantes
Site da Nature Conservancy: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
Site do Podcast Green Hour: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
Episode 4 | The Road to COP30 â A Series with The Nature Conservancy
In the fourth episode of our six-part series, we sit down with Lisa Ferguson, Director of Regenerative Economies & Community Finance for The Nature Conservancy, and Juliana SimÔes, Deputy Manager, Indigenous People & Local Community Strategy.
đ§ In this episode, we explore:
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How the socio-bioeconomy offers a just and sustainable development pathway for the Amazon
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The role of diverse value chainsâfrom açaĂ to Brazil nutsâin protecting biodiversity while fueling thriving local economies
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ParĂĄâs pioneering Bioeconomy Plan and its potential to become a global model of inclusive, nature-based development
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Why empowering Indigenous peoples and local communities is essential to scaling sustainable solutions in the Amazon
âĄïž Subscribe to The Green Hour Podcast and follow the full Road to COP30 series for more in-depth conversations with global sustainability leaders. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Founded in 1951 in the United States, TNC partners with local communities, governments, and private businesses to protect biodiversity and address climate change through various methods, including land purchases, conservation easements, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Important Links
The Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
The Green Hour Podcast website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
Episode 3 | The Road to COP30 â A Series with The Nature Conservancy
Freshwater is the Amazonâs lifebloodânourishing millions of people, sustaining diverse fisheries, and regulating global climate patterns. Yet these critical ecosystems are under mounting pressure from deforestation, pollution, and climate change.
In this third episode of our six-part series, we sit down with Flavia Rocha Loures, Global Freshwater Policy Advisor for The Nature Conservancy, and Fernanda Silva, Amazon Freshwater Fisheries Scientist.
đ§ In this episode, we explore:
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Why Amazon freshwater ecosystems are central to food security, cultural identity, and climate resilience
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The threats facing rivers, lakes, and fisheries across the region
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Policy and science-driven solutions that can safeguard these waters for generations to come
âĄïž Subscribe to The Green Hour Podcast and follow the full Road to COP30 series for more in-depth conversations with global sustainability leaders. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Founded in 1951 in the United States, TNC partners with local communities, governments, and private businesses to protect biodiversity and address climate change through various methods, including land purchases, conservation easements, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Important Links
The Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
The Green Hour Podcast website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
Episode 2 | The Road to COP30 â A Series with The Nature Conservancy
Deforestation remains one of the most urgent challenges in the global fight against climate change. At the center of this crisis is the Amazonâthe worldâs largest rainforest and one of Latin Americaâs most vital ecosystems.
In this second episode of our six-part series, we sit down with JosĂ© Otavio Passos, Director of the Brazilian Amazon for The Nature Conservancy, to unpack the forces driving deforestationâand the solutions that can turn the tide.
đ§ In this episode, we explore:
- The powerful economic drivers behind deforestation
- Why preserving the Amazon creates global climate and biodiversity benefits
- How the ParĂĄ Sustainable Cattle Program is transforming cattle ranching with full traceability
âĄïž Subscribe to The Green Hour Podcast and follow the full Road to COP30 series for more in-depth conversations with global sustainability leaders. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Founded in 1951 in the United States, TNC partners with local communities, governments, and private businesses to protect biodiversity and address climate change through various methods, including land purchases, conservation easements, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Important Links
The Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
The Green Hour Podcast website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
Episode 1 | The Road to COP30 â A Series with The Nature Conservancy
In this first episode of our six-part series, The Road to COP30, weâre joined by:
- Paula Caballero, Regional Managing Director, Latin America, The Nature Conservancy
- Marcio Sztutman, Executive Director, Brazil, The Nature Conservancy
Together, they unpack why COP30âs return to Latin Americaâand specifically to the Amazon in Brazilâis such a powerful global signal. From Brazilâs role as host nation to the convergence of climate action and sustainable development, this conversation sets the stage for whatâs at stake on the road to COP30.
đ§ In this episode, we explore:
- Why COP30 matters for Latin America and the world
- Brazilâs unique role in shaping climate negotiations
- The importance of Indigenous leadership and local solutions
âĄïž Subscribe to The Green Hour Podcast and follow the full Road to COP30 series for more in-depth conversations with global sustainability leaders. ________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
About The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental nonprofit organization that works to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Founded in 1951 in the United States, TNC partners with local communities, governments, and private businesses to protect biodiversity and address climate change through various methods, including land purchases, conservation easements, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Important Links
- The Nature Conservancy website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/
- The Green Hour Podcast website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
- Get a Copy of Paula Caballero's "Redefining Development: The Extraordinary Genesis of the Sustainable Development Goals": https://www.amazon.com/Redefining-Development-Extraordinary-Genesis-Sustainable/dp/1955055262
Episode 6 | Conservation Across Africa â A Series with African Parks
In the final episode of our six-part series, weâre joined by Evan Trotzuk, Bazaruto Research & Monitoring Coordinator at African Parks, to explore efforts to protect East Africaâs last known viable dugong population.
Once widespread along the continentâs eastern coastline, dugongs are now on the brinkâmaking Bazaruto Archipelago National Park a critical stronghold for their survival.
đ§ Tune in as we discuss:
âą Why dugongs are so rare in Africa
âą The ecological importance of Bazaruto
âą How research and monitoring are shaping conservation strategies
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RRuJrourygs?si=L0bVHp6GprXzZ0WA
Watch the Previous Episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjdkjacNUyHkzzoY7xd6kNLYKIxtoDmU&si=6t8zVojdl6v863Sc
Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/
Episode 5 | Conservation Across Africa â A Series with African Parks
In this episode, weâre joined by Gwili Gibbon, Conservation Manager at African Parks to explore efforts to protect one of Africaâs most iconic and critically endangered species â the Western Lowland Gorilla. Found deep within the rainforests of Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo, this species faces immense pressure from poaching, disease, and habitat loss.
Tune in as we discuss:
đż The challenges of conserving gorillas in dense rainforest ecosystems
đĄïž The role of rangers and community-led protection efforts
đ What long-term survival looks like for this elusive species
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_Gz9S_lGjlc?si=pfUoDJZMrBgGE3bS
Watch the Previous Episodes:
Episode 1: A $1B Conservation Commitment | https://youtu.be/kLPMX0LT6e4?si=MumM1auAWAlNtDHq
Episode 2: Rewilding 2,000 Southern White Rhinos | https://youtu.be/EMt7qTEawfg?si=rLyQe95LYX9FscWX
Episode 3: The Largest Land Mammal Migration on Earth | https://youtu.be/f_UvXzZkt_8?si=t70jKDQ_yJKTmect
Episode 4: Shoebill Conservation in Bangweulu | https://youtu.be/WBlidHaoxjk?si=dBWd3NeXmvTOvbDI
Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/
Episode 4 | Conservation Across Africa â A Series with African Parks
In this episode, weâre joined by Maggie Hirschauer, Shoebill Program Manager at African Parks, to explore one of the most fascinating and elusive birds in Africa â the Shoebill.
Found in the remote Bangweulu Wetlands of Zambia, the Shoebill is known for its prehistoric appearance, massive bill, and mysterious behavior.
We dive into:
âą The Shoebillâs unique biology and behavior
âą Why itâs one of the most vulnerable birds in Africa
âą African Parksâ groundbreaking captive rearing program
âą The critical role of local communities in conservation
Discover what it takes to protect one of Africaâs most iconic â and endangered â birds.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WBlidHaoxjk?si=VXbVsjUNgCqWVksD
________________________________________
Watch the Previous Episodes:
Episode 1: A $1B Conservation Commitment | https://youtu.be/kLPMX0LT6e4?si=SYzyAxaSpHvpId63
Episode 2: Rewilding 2,000 Southern White Rhinos | https://youtu.be/EMt7qTEawfg?si=gr-QOOLanjyeg5ve
Episode 3: The Largest Land Mammal Migration on Earth | https://youtu.be/f_UvXzZkt_8?si=CRH49KtMv5jGkvWW
________________________________________
Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/
Episode 3 | Conservation Across Africa â A Series with African Parks
In this episode, we sit down with Mike Fay, Landscape Coordinator at African Parks, to dive into the largest land mammal migration on Earth â the annual journey of 6 million antelope across the remote landscapes of South Sudan to Ethiopia.
Learn how this little-known migration is being studied, protected, and brought into the global spotlight.
________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/f_UvXzZkt_8?si=wFn-8vfrl8Wh28-o
Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/
Listen to Episode 1 of the Series: https://youtu.be/kLPMX0LT6e4?si=BisZfOPdi_iLAOj7
Listen to Episode 2 of the Series: https://youtu.be/EMt7qTEawfg?si=I0dBBkP2voAph3pv
Episode 2 | Conservation Across Africa â A Series with African Parks
In this episode, we sit down with Donovan Jooste, Rhino Rewilding Project Manager at African Parks, to explore the groundbreaking Rhino Rewild Project.
In September 2023, African Parks acquired the worldâs largest captive rhino breeding operationâsecuring the land, equipment, and all 2,000 southern white rhinos, representing nearly 15% of the global population. Now, theyâre working to rewild these rhinos and translocate them to secure, well-managed protected areas across Africa over the next decade.
đŻ Goal: Translocate up to 300 rhinos per year
đ Timeline: 10 years
đŠ Mission: Rewild 2,000 rhinos and restore balance to Africaâs ecosystems
Tune in to hear how this bold conservation plan is unfolding, the challenges of large-scale translocation, and what it takes to give these iconic animals a second chance in the wild.
________________________________________
YouTube: https://youtu.be/EMt7qTEawfg?si=v7RR2AyNHTQA4LbO
Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/
________________________________________
Listen to Episode 1 of the Series: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7AyFgQRG53BnSzVR9sVUKD?si=sB1Z7WKwT_q4JZleJbs-Yw
To kick off our new series, Conservation Across Africa â A Series with African Parks, we sit down with Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks Network.
In this episode, we explore the organizationâs groundbreaking $1 billion commitment to conservation, aimed at scaling their impact across the continent. Peter shares insights into African Parksâ ambitious plan to expand from managing 23 protected areas to 30 by 2030 â a bold move to safeguard biodiversity, support local communities, and build climate resilience across Africa.
Tune in to learn how this historic investment is transforming the future of conservation at scale.
________________________________________
About The Green Hour Podcast
The Green Hour Podcast is a global platform that connects sustainability leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to share insights on sustainable solutions. With a growing audience across six continents, The Green Hour continues to be at the forefront of global conversations on environmental action.
Website: https://thegreenhourpodcast.com/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/kLPMX0LT6e4?si=InniLcnwxLVPBylI
African Parks: https://www.africanparks.org/
Coming June 2025 â Conservation Across Africa is a six-episode series in collaboration with African Parks, highlighting the people, partnerships, and protected areas driving one of the most ambitious conservation efforts on the continent.
đ§ Episode Guide:
Episode 1: Overview of African Parks and the $1B Conservation Commitment
đïž Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks Network đ Coming June 3, 2025
Episode 2: Relocating 2,000 Southern White Rhinos
đïž Donovan Jooste, Rhino Rewilding Project Manager đ Coming June 5, 2025
Episode 3: The Largest Land Mammal Migration in the World
đïž Mike Fay, Landscape Coordinator đ Coming June 10, 2025
Episode 4: Sustaining a Vulnerable Bird Species â The Shoebill
đïž Maggie Hirschauer, Shoebill Program Manager đ Coming June 12, 2025
Episode 5: Saving the Western Lowland Gorilla
đïž Gwili Gibbon, Conservation Manager đ Coming June 17, 2025
Episode 6: Protecting the Dugong in Bazaruto National Park
đïž Evan Trotzuk, Research & Monitoring Coordinator đ Coming June 19, 2025
đ Subscribe now and journey with us through Africaâs most ambitious conservation efforts.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we speak with Mutuma Muriuki, Founder of Eco Bristo, a company on a mission to empower sustainable farming by providing alternative, affordable, and eco-friendly pest-control technology and solutions.
In this episode, we discuss:
đ°ïž The History of Pesticide Use across Africa
â ïž The Environmental, Social & Health Risks of Pesticides
âïž Eco Bristoâs Solution: Solar Pest Traps
đŸ Scaling Agroecology in Kenya
________________________________________
Visit our Website
Check out our recent Biodiversity Series: Conversations from Latin America with The Nature Conservancy
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Gerald Torres, Professor of Environmental Justice and Law at Yale University, Board Chair of Earth Day, and Trustee of the Natural Resources Defense Council.
In this episode, we dive into:
đ± The crucial role of Native peoples in environmental conservation
đ The disproportionate impacts of climate change, pollution, and resource extraction on Native lands
âïž The Trump administrationâs policies affecting Native communities
âïž The environmental, economic, and societal implications of drilling and mining on Native land
đ The #LandBack Movement: the return of lands and responsibilities to Indian Tribes
This week on The Green Hour, we sit down with Quill Robinson, Assistant Director and Associate Fellow at the Energy Security and Climate Change Program for CSIS and Senior Adviser with ConservAmerica, to explore what U.S. climate policy could look like under a second Trump administration. How much will it diverge from Bidenâs approach, and what key policies could be reversed or reshaped?
We break down the major shifts that may be on the horizon, including:
- Regulatory Rollbacks vs. Clean Energy Incentives â Trumpâs deregulatory stance compared to Bidenâs investment in clean energy technologies.
- The Future of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) â Will Trump scale back or dismantle Bidenâs landmark climate legislation?
- Tariffs & Critical Minerals â How trade policies could impact global supply chains for key energy technologies.
- Paris Agreement & U.S. Climate Commitments â What an exit could mean for international climate cooperation.
Join us as we examine the policies, politics, and global implications of a shifting climate agenda.
On this episode of The Green Hour, weâre joined by Don Weatherbee, CEO of Regenx Tech Corp., to discuss their innovative process for recovering precious metals from diesel catalytic converters.
In this episode:
đ§ Understanding catalytic converters in gasoline and diesel engines
âȘ The valuable precious metals hidden inside catalytic converters
đ§Ș How Regenxâs innovative chemical separation process achieves 99.9% purity
đ The role of critical material supply chains in a circular economy
â»ïž A life cycle assessment of raw vs. regenerated materials
________________________________________
Visit our Website
Check out our recent Biodiversity Series: Conversations from Latin America with The Nature Conservancy
On this episode of The Green Hour, weâre joined by Sydney Rodman, CEO of Green Revival, to explore an innovative solution to the invasive species crisisâtransforming these plants into valuable biomass supply chains.
In This Episode:
đ The Growing Problem: How invasive plant species are impacting U.S. ecosystems
đŸ Turning a Crisis into Opportunity: Sourcing invasive plants for sustainable biomass
________________________________________
Visit our Website
Check out our recent Concordia Summit Series: Conversations during NYC Climate Week
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Dan Koukol, CEO of Digit Software, to explore how Digit is transforming the manufacturing and recycling industries. Dan shares insights into how their innovative software solution is helping manufacturers streamline operations, uncover new opportunities, and enhance overall efficiency.
In This Episode:
đ Why many recyclers are still relying on outdated, manual processes for data collection.
đ„ïž How Digitâs software provides actionable insights to manufacturers, enabling smarter decision-making.
đ Real-world case studies from recyclers whoâve experienced measurable success using Digit's solution (33:45).
________________________________________
Visit our Website
Check out our recent Concordia Summit Series: Conversations during NYC Climate Week
Closing the Funding Gap for SDG-related investments in Developing Countries
In the final episode of our Concordia Summit Series, we speak with Naomi Nwokolo, Executive Director of the United Nations Global Compact Nigeria, about the staggering $2.5 trillion funding gap for SDG-related investments in developing countries.
Join us as we unpack:
đ The UN's report reveals weâre only on track to achieve 17% of the SDGs by 2030.
đĄ How private sector financing can bridge the gap and drive impact.
đ The Transformational Governance Toolkit, empowering Nigerian businesses to align with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
________________________________________
Calculate your Building's Carbon Footprint Easily with this Tool!
On Episode 9 of the Concordia Summit Series we sit down with Erika Gupta, Head of Sustainability for Siemens Financial Services.
Learn about Siemens' newly launched Decarbonization Business Optimizer (DBOâą)âa powerful tool that:
â Delivers baseline carbon assessments
â Identifies efficient pathways to Net Zero
â Adapts to your facility's location, type, and size
Plus, hear about Siemens' own journey to becoming Net Zero by 2030!
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
________________________________________
Learn more about Siemens Financial Services
Learn more about The Decarbonization Business Optimizer (DBOâą)
Access The Decarbonization Business Optimizer (DBOâą)
Proteger 500.000 acres de selva amazĂłnica de la extracciĂłn de petrĂłleo
En el episodio 8 de la serie Summit nos sentamos con Nemonte Nenquimo y Mitch Anderson, cofundadores de Amazon Frontlines.
En este episodio, exploraremos sus memorias reciĂ©n publicadas, 'We Will Be Jaguars', que comparten la historia de vida de Nemonte, la sabidurĂa ancestral de su pueblo y la lucha indĂgena para proteger el Amazonas. TambiĂ©n discutiremos las recientes victorias contra las grandes petroleras y el trabajo de Amazon Frontlines, que recientemente recibiĂł el premio Hilton Humanitarian Prize.
Ver en YouTube
Visita nuestro sitio web
________________________________________
Para obtener mĂĄs informaciĂłn sobre 'We Will Be Jaguars': https://wewillbejaguars.org/
Para obtener mĂĄs informaciĂłn sobre Amazon Frontlines: https://amazonfrontlines.org/
Protecting 500,000 Acres of Amazon Rainforest from Oil Extraction
On Episode 8 of the Concordia Summit Series we sit down with Nemonte Nenquimo and Mitch Anderson, Co-founders of Amazon Frontlines.
In this episode, weâll explore their newly released memoir, 'We Will Be Jaguars', which shares Nemonteâs life story, her peopleâs ancestral wisdom, and the Indigenous fight to protect the Amazon. Weâll also discuss recent victories against Big Oil and the work of Amazon Frontlines, which was recently awarded the Hilton Humanitarian Prize.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
________________________________________
To learn more about 'We Will Be Jaguars': https://wewillbejaguars.org/
To learn more about Amazon Frontlines: https://amazonfrontlines.org/
Providing Clean Water to a New Person Every 10 Seconds!
Join us LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in NYC as we sit down with Greg Allgood, VP of Water & Health for World Vision. Together, we explore the global clean water crisis and how World Visionâs groundbreaking Global WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Business Plan is making a difference.
In this episode, we dive into the scale of the water crisis, the innovative solutions World Vision is implementing, and the transformative power of collaboration in tackling one of the greatest challenges of our time.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
The Future of Electric Mobility in the U.S.
LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in NYC, we sit down with Hooman Shahidi, CEO of EVPassport to discuss electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. EVPassport is a user-friendly EV charging network that lets drivers charge without needing an app.
In this episode, weâll dive into U.S. EV policy, the surge in EV demand, and how EVPassport is driving innovation through its Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) model.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
Building Resilient Food Systems across Europe
LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in NYC, we sit down with Richard Zaltzman, CEO of EIT Food, to explore the transformative potential of regenerative agriculture. EIT Food, the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, is a Knowledge and Innovation Community supported by the European Union, dedicated to making our food systems more sustainable.
Join us as we discuss how regenerative agriculture can boost yields while preserving the environment.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
The Role of Youth in Leading Climate Action
LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in NYC, we sit down with Michael Nyenhuis, CEO of UNICEF USA, to explore the vital role young people play in tackling the climate crisis. UNICEF USA, part of a global effort spanning 190+ countries, is empowering youth to drive meaningful change through initiatives like Green Rising and Green Skilling.
Learn how UNICEF is equipping the next generation to lead climate action and build a sustainable future for all.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
Reducing Scope 3 Emissions through 70,000 Suppliers!
LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Jason Weller, Global Chief Sustainability Officer for JBS Foodsâone of the worldâs largest food companies. Operating across 15+ countries and serving 190 nations, JBS is a major player in beef, pork, and chicken production.
In this episode, Jason Weller dives into the challenges of managing a massive supply chain and outlines how JBS is tackling Scope 3 emission reductions on the road to their ambitious 2040 net zero goal.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
Electrifying 300M Africans by 2030!
LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Andy Herscowitz, CEO of the Mission 300 Accelerator. In this episode, Andy Herscowitz explains Mission 300, an initiative to provide access to electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
Mission 300 is possible through the collective efforts of the World Bank Group, African Development Bank (AfDB), The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), The Rockefeller Foundation, and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL).
Watch on YouTube
Read out Press Release
Visit our Website
African Parks Unveils a $1B Initiative to Conservation Across Africa!
LIVE from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks Network. In this episode, Peter Fearnhead explains the bold commitment of $1 Billion to scale African Parks' protected areas from 22 areas to 30 areas by 2030.
Watch on YouTube
Visit our Website
LIVE from the Bright Energy Forum at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta, Georgia, with Michael Chanin, CEO of Cherry Street Energy. This event brought together public, private, and non-profit leaders in Atlanta, Georgia to explore clean energy solutions.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Cross-Sector Collaboration for Clean Energy Goals
- Using Renewable Energy to Reduce Scope 2 Emissions
- Policy Support for Advancing Renewable Energy
- The Importance of Workforce Development and Training
In the seventh (and final) episode of our series, we discuss public policy driving biodiversity with Catalina Gongora, Policy Leader in Colombia for The Nature Conservancy, and Karen Oliveira, Director of Public Policy and Government Relations in Brazil for The Nature Conservancy.
In this episode, we explore:
- Policy's role in biodiversity conservation
- Biodiversity policies in Latin America
- Bioeconomy in ParĂĄ State
- Significance of COP30 for Brazil
In the sixth episode of our series, we dive into regenerative agriculture and ranching with Mauricio Nuñez Regueiro, Gran Chaco Lead for The Nature Conservancy.
In this episode, we explore:
- Regenerative Agriculture Principles
- Latin America's Role in the Global Food Supply Chain
- The Agriculture Industry's Environmental Impact
- Scaling Regenerative Practices Globally
In the fifth episode of our series, we dive into finance mechanisms driving biodiversity conservation with Daniel Ballesta Quintana, Director of Sustainable Debt, Americas, and Julie Robinson, Belize Program Director, both from The Nature Conservancy.
In this episode, we explore:
- Finance mechanisms for conservation
- Traditional and innovative funding methods
- Scaling funding methods into larger countries
- The potential of Nature Bonds
In the fourth episode of this series, we sit down with Silvia Benitez to talk about freshwater biodiversity and protection in Latin America. Silvia is the Freshwater Director for The Nature Conservancy in Latin America.
In this episode:
- Economic, environmental, and social impacts of freshwater biodiversity
- Current threats to freshwater ecosystems
- Balancing development and conservation
- Nature-based solutions and water funds
In the third episode of this series, we sit down with Isai Victorino and Gabriela Celi to learn about the impact of indigenous communities inside the Amazon Rainforest. Isai Victorino is the Community-Based Conservation Leader in Colombia for The Nature Conservancy, and Gabriela Celi is the Coordinator of the Amazon Conservation Strategy in Ecuador for The Nature Conservancy.
In this episode:
- Indigenous Communities in the Amazon Basin
- Indigenous Communities' Role in Climate Adaptation
- Threats to Indigenous Territories and Communities
- The Nature Conservancy's work with Indigenous Communities in the Amazon Rainforest.
In the second episode of this series, we sit down with Tomas Walschburger, Senior Scientist in Colombia for The Nature Conservancy, to learn about the unparalleled bird species biodiversity in Colombia. Our discussion covers:
- Colombia's rich biodiversity history
- Colombian bird biodiversity and its global significance
- Importance of COP16 CBD in Cali, Colombia
- The Nature Conservancy's efforts to protect bird species
In the first episode in this series, we sit down with Ian Thompson, Director of Accelerate Impact in Latin America for The Nature Conservancy, to delve into the critical topic of biodiversity in the Amazon Rainforest. Our discussion covers:
- TNC's Conservation Efforts: Insight into The Nature Conservancy's initiatives to protect the Amazon Rainforest.
- Importance of Biodiversity: Understanding the ecological roles and human benefits of biodiversity.
- Amazon's Species Diversity: An overview of the vast array of species inhabiting the Amazon.
- Threats to Biodiversity: The impacts of deforestation and climate change on the Amazon's delicate ecosystem.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Elba Pareja-Gallagher to explore the critical role of stakeholder engagement in large companies. Elba is the founder of the Sustainability Navigator, which helps small and medium-sized businesses adopt sustainable practices, and ShowMe50% Women Leading, an organization aiming to achieve 50% women in senior leadership roles by transforming workplace cultures and talent management.
Elba spent 26 years of her career at UPS spanning business functions finance, accounting, and sustainability. As the former Sustainability Director of Stakeholder Engagement at UPS, Elba founded the Sustainability Trailblazers, an initiative designed to engage and empower UPS employees worldwide to advocate for and drive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) causes. Under Elba's leadership, the program expanded to 8,000 employees around the world.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Nes Parker to discuss the role of government in driving sustainability progress. Nes Parker leads Sustainability, Climate, and Equity efforts for Deloitteâs Government & Public Services Practice. Deloitte recently published a pioneering study on government sustainability leaders and their progress on climate action. Their survey of 435 public sector CxOs reveals that while agencies are making strides in decarbonizing operations, other sustainability goals lag due to barriers like administrative rigidity and lack of climate literacy.
Join us for a conversation on green policy (Inflation Reduction Act, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and CHIPS and Science Act), the government's role in advancing sustainability, and strategies to accelerate the clean energy transition.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Jamie Crummie to discuss the role technology plays in fighting food waste. Jamie Crummie is the co-founder of Too Good To Go, the worldâs largest marketplace for surplus food. The app lets consumers buy unsold food from restaurants and retailers so that it doesnât go to waste. Too Good To Go is now active in 17 countries. The market-leading app has over 90 million consumers and 150,000 food businesses signed up, who have rescued over 330 million bags of food from going to waste.
For this work, Jamie Crummie was named Sustainability Entrepreneur of the Year at the GB Entrepreneur Awards 2022, a Trailblazing Activist in the 50 Next class of 2021, One Young Worldâs Entrepreneur of the Year in August 2020, and one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in Europe in February 2019. He is also a Europe Leader for the Obama Foundation and a featured TedTalk speaker. Join us for a conversation on the global food waste crisis, exploring how innovative solutions like Too Good to Go are leading the charge against waste, and learn about the simple yet impactful steps we can all take to combat food waste in our daily lives.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Heather Noreen to discuss her 3,326-mile bike travel for climate education. Heather founded Climate Tours, a non-profit NGO that empowers experienced facilitators to offer free public workshops and educational games for all ages about climate change and planetary boundaries worldwide.
Heather and her son embarked on a 3-month journey from Miami to Montreal to spread education on the climate through interactive games like Climate Fresk. Climate Fresk is a three-hour workshop that teaches people about climate change through an interactive puzzle. This workshop has been played by over 1 million people in France and Heather is working on spreading it into the US. Join us for a conversation on climate education, messaging, and training on this episode of the Green Hour.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with John Uhran to discuss sustainability in the chemical industry. John has spent more than 30 years working in the chemical industry with a fair part spent on specialty chemicals like lubricants. In this episode, we explore product lifecycles, scopes of emissions, and the sustainability challenges faced by chemical companies. Join us for a conversation on innovation, transportation, and industry shifts.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Alison Taylor to discuss her book, "Higher Ground: How Business Can Do the Right Thing in a Turbulent World," which is an indispensable guide to help companies navigate the new era of ethical challenges and risks in a volatile global landscape.Alison is a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU Stern School of Business and Executive Director of Ethical Systems. She has spent the past two decades consulting with multinational companies on risk, anti-corruption, sustainability, human rights, culture and behavior, stakeholder engagement, ESG, and ethics and compliance.
Join us for a conversation on the pitfalls of ESG, the importance of focusing on key issues, responsible business practices, and navigating the transparency trap in corporate sustainability reporting.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Mike Johnson to discuss the importance of material transparency in the built environment. Mike is the Director of Materials for the International Living Future Institute, a non-profit organization committed to promoting sustainable and regenerative practices in the built environment through initiatives like the Declare label, Living Building Challenge, and the Living Product Challenge. Join us for a conversation on regenerative design, transparency, and holistic thinking.
On this episode of The Green Hour, we sit down with Marissa Andrada to understand how to build strong organizational cultures. Marissa, the former Chief People and Inclusion Officer at Chipotle, brings a wealth of experience from her roles as Senior Vice President of Human Resources & Chief Resources Officer at Kate Spade & Company, Senior Vice President of Partner Resources for Starbucks Coffee Company, and Senior Vice President of Human Resources at GameStop Corporation, among others. Join us as we delve into her insights on fostering strong workplace cultures, gaining an understanding of effective Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (DEI) initiatives, and discovering how you can become a catalyst for positive change in your organization.
On today's episode of The Green Hour, we take you behind the scenes of ESG Reporting, focusing on the intricacies of the design process. Our special guest is Kimber Flynn, the Founder of Indiblu Creative, a firm dedicated to ESG, Sustainability, and Annual digital reporting. With her expertise in branding, business development, and design, Kimber has shaped award-winning online publications and microsites, leaving a significant impact on companies like Delta Air Lines, Estee Lauder, Carterâs, Expedia, and New York Life. Join us as we unravel the significance of ESG reports in fostering transparency, offering an exclusive peek into the design process, and envisioning the future with microsites.
On today's episode of The Green Hour, we unravel the strategies for educating teams on sustainability within large companies. We dive into the vital role education plays in fostering sustainable practices, the significance of community engagement for corporations, and strategies for launching sustainability education programs. Joining us is Nadine Gudz, Practice Lead for Strategy at NATUR&D, a nature-inspired research and development firm. Nadine is a seasoned sustainability leader in academia and the private sector. She is a 2019 Clean50 honouree in Education & Thought Leadership. In her career, she has led corporate sustainability strategy, partnership development and employee engagement initiatives for large-scale organizations. Tune in for a conversation on the intersection of sustainability, education, and leadership.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we walk into the world of repurposing goods, exploring the work of repurposedMATERIALS. Joining us is Damon Carson, Founder and President of repurposedMATERIALS, often dubbed the "industrial thrift store," that operates across the U.S., and its goal is to reuse existing materials from industryâeverything from fire hoses and barrels to brand-new products that different companies might not want to use. By acting as a middleman between companies, Repurposed Materials diverts millions of tons of waste from being landfilled. Sometimes referred to as a waste speculator or a materials gambler, Carson has made a career out of finding value in the discarded. Join us for a fascinating discussion about the environmental impact of repurposing and how this simple practice can make a big difference.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we explore the journey of Eastern Kentucky, a region that once thrived as a coal-producing hub and now grapples with the effects of the coal industry's decline. Joining us is Colby Hall, Executive Director of Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR), a nonprofit serving the 54 Appalachian Regional Commissions counties of Eastern Kentucky. In this conversation, learn about SOAR's blueprint for Appalachia, addressing health challenges, community initiatives, digital equity, and inclusion, all while envisioning the future of Eastern Kentucky.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we explore the dynamic world of events with a focus on sustainability with Anthony Dittmann, Founder of Kilowatt Events. Kilowatt Events is an industry leader, orchestrating high-profile events from televised sporting spectacles to red carpets. Acting as general contractors, they have an extensive client list that includes some of the most recognizable names in the entertainment and corporate worlds, such as the NFL and ESPN.
About the guest
Anthony Dittmann founded Kilowatt Events after a 15-year career leading event operations for ESPN. He has been recognized on BizBash's top 1000 people in the US event industry, specifically in the Sustainability and Social Responsibility category. Beyond Kilowatt Events, Anthony is a co-founder of Cerobins and the creator of a new sport called OmegaBall.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're delving into the intersection of nature and climate with Tim Christophersen, VP of Climate Action for Salesforce. In this episode, we delve into Salesforce's Nature Positive Strategy, exploring its initiatives in nature restoration and uncovering the company's contributions to the goal of growing 100 million trees by 2030 through its partnership with 1t.org. Additionally, we'll navigate Salesforce's comprehensive Climate Action Plan, touching on crucial aspects like emissions reduction, carbon removal, ecosystem restoration, education, innovation, and engagement with regulation and policy. Tune in for insightful conversations on carbon credits and science-based targets as we explore the landscape of sustainability and climate action.
About the guest: Within the global Impact Team, Tim is focused on the role of nature-based solutions to climate change. Before joining Salesforce, Tim was Head of the âNature for Climateâ Branch at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and led a growing global movement backed by all UN Member States and over 120 partner organizations to âprevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide. Tim's career has been dedicated to navigating the intersection of nature and climate, striving to find solutions that simultaneously stabilize the climate and preserve our precious ecosystems.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're delving into the dynamic world of urban management in Atlanta, Georgia, with Public Works Commissioner Al Wiggins Jr. We explore the intricate challenges of waste collection, addressing illegal dumping, and the innovative solutions employed, including surveillance cameras and artificial intelligence. Commissioner Wiggins, a seasoned leader with a background in the United States Air Force and various roles in local government, will share insights into managing a $90M annual budget and a workforce of nearly 700 employees. Join us as we navigate the complexities of urban management, discovering the strategies and resilience driving the heartbeat of a major city, especially in the face of challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're learning about how the Honnold Foundation deploys solar energy to the most underprivileged areas of the world. Joining us is Peter Walle, Development and Communications Manager for the Honnold Foundation, a non-profit that provides grants to organizations advancing solar energy access all over the world.
The Honnold Foundation was founded by Alex Honnold, a world-renowned rock climber, best known for his historic free solo ascent of El Capitan captured in the Netflix Documentary "Free Solo". Through solar initiatives, the foundation strives to empower communities, foster climate resilience, and enhance environmental well-being on a global scale.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're learning about the creation of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Joining us is Paula Caballero, former Director for Economic, Social and Environmental Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia. Paula is recognized as having created the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals concept, which is considered to be a âblueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.â
In this episode, we explore the vital importance of global goals in sustainable development, delving into the historical context and progress of global goals. We examine the Millennium Development Goals which were adopted in 2002, looking at their creation, minimalist fashion, and evaluate their success. Paula Caballero guides us through the evolution from MDGs to the groundbreaking idea of SDGs, discussing the challenges and key actors in their launch. Lastly, we explore the United Nationsâ negotiation process as well as the form of informal diplomacy Paula used to help launch the SDGs.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're diving into the problem of food waste in the United States. Joining us is Justin Kamine, CEO of Do Good Foods, a company that produces sustainable meat by diverting food waste from a system of supermarkets to use as animal feed. Do Good Foods was ranked by Fast Company amongst the Top 50 Most Innovative Companies in the World; Kamine was also named one of Forbes 30 Under 30 for Food and he has received the Clean Tech Equity Award presented by the Prince of Monaco.
In this episode, we explore the food waste problem in the U.S., its economic implications, and the environmental impact on climate change. We dive into Do Good Foods' closed-loop system, preventing waste and reducing emissions. Join us for a conversation on reducing food waste, combating climate change, and shaping a better future on this episode of The Green Hour.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're diving into the first newly constructed nuclear units to be built in the United States in more than 30 years. Joining us is Tim Echols, Georgia Public Service Commissioner. We explore the U.S.'s leadership in nuclear energy and the challenges faced during the construction of Plant Vogtle. We dive into the national security perspective and implications for the workforce and explore the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on the nuclear industry. Lastly, we look into the future of nuclear energy, considering lessons from Plant Vogtle and the potential of modular reactors.
On today's episode of the Green Hour, we're tackling the challenge of recycling in areas without proper infrastructure. Joining us is Ryan Smith, the Founder and CEO of Recyclops, a company that focuses on providing recycling services in areas with limited or no access to traditional recycling infrastructure. We'll delve into their mission to make recycling universally accessible through smart-routing and a gig-economy model. Recyclops is currently operating in 30+ states, bringing accessible recycling to over 1 million households! In 2022 alone, the company recycled over 6.5 million pounds of materials including cardboard, aluminum, plastic, and glass. Ryanâs success has earned him a spot on the prestigious Forbes 30 under 30 list for the Social Entrepreneur category.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Andy Kireta Jr., President of the Copper Development Association. In this episode, we explore the critical role of copper in driving environmental innovation. From understanding why copper is an essential component in clean energy technologies to its impact on the electric vehicle industry, we'll uncover the intricacies of this multi-faceted metal. Delving into the challenges faced by the copper industry, we'll discuss regulatory hurdles, supply chain disruptions, and the need for efficient permitting processes. Join us as we navigate the dynamic landscape of copper's significance in promoting a greener and more sustainable future.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Lisa Jacobson, President of The Business Council for Sustainable Energy. In this episode, we explore the last decade's changes in the energy sector, covering record-breaking renewable energy adoption, challenges like energy security and climate change. We discuss the U.S.' progress on Paris Agreement commitments, emphasizing the power industry's role, addressing obstacles like supply chain disruptions and rising interest rates. Delving into global and U.S. private clean energy investments, we highlight the growth of renewable generation and the urgency for accelerated decarbonization. Join us as we navigate clean energy's evolution and the pressing need for decisive action.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Crystal Upperman, Senior Manager in Deloitte's Government and Public Services consulting practice. In this episode, we're talking about air pollution and how it impacts both health and fairness in our communities. We'll uncover how lower-income areas, particularly those of color, carry a heavier burden of air pollution, leading to significant health disparities among vulnerable groups. But we're not stopping there; we'll also explore the link between air pollution and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Christian Spano, Director of Innovation for The International Council on Mining and Metals. ICMM is an industry association comprising major global mining and metals companies, dedicated to promoting sustainable development, responsible mining practices, and environmental and social performance improvement within the sector. Today, we're delving into the world of Circular Economy in Mining. Join us as we explore sustainable practices, game-changing research initiatives, and the importance of circular principles in reshaping the future of mining. It's a journey towards a more responsible and eco-friendly industry.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Sonia Scarselli, VP of BHP's XPlor Program. BHP is a leading global resources company with a diverse portfolio, encompassing mining and exploration activities in sectors such as iron ore, copper, coal, petroleum, and more. In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of BHP, a $60 billion giant, as it pioneers the creation of an entrepreneurial culture within its massive framework. Join us as we explore BHP's XPlor program, an accelerator initiative designed to support early-stage explorers and startups focused on finding new resources of critical minerals, offering funding, mentorship, and access to BHP's network of experts. Discover how this initiative not only reflects a commitment to workplace dynamism but also positions BHP at the forefront of industry evolution. And stay tuned to hear how sustainability is seamlessly integrated into every facet of this groundbreaking program, shaping the future of corporate culture.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Rajiv Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation. In this episode, learn about his impactful experiences working alongside Bill and Melinda Gates in pioneering global vaccination initiatives. Delve into his key role as Administrator of USAID during the Obama administration, where he led responses to humanitarian crises, notably the Haiti earthquake, and orchestrated efforts to combat the Ebola outbreak. Dr. Shah's unique perspective, shaped by his collaborations with influential figures, unfolds in his book "Big Bets: How Large-Scale Change Really Happens."Explore the Rockefeller Foundation's groundbreaking commitment of over $1 billion towards addressing climate change and fostering inclusive economies. This thought-provoking conversation invites you to reconsider the scale of impact, challenge the status quo, and join the movement toward positive, large-scale transformation in our ever-evolving world.Check out Raj's book 'Big Bets':https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Big-Bets/Rajiv-Shah/9781668004388
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City. Join us as we delve into the crucial intersection of indoor air quality and sustainability. We're joined by a true leader in the HVAC realm, Donny Simmons, President of Commercial HVAC Americas for Trane Technologies, a company weaving innovation into the very air we breathe. From the overlooked nuances of indoor air to Trane's pioneering sustainability initiatives, this episode uncovers the stories that make the invisible visible. Tune in for a breath of knowledge and a journey towards a healthier, more sustainable world.
Coming to you live from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City with Yosef Abramowitz, the luminary CEO of Gigawatt Global. Yosef, often dubbed "Captain Sunshine," not only co-founded the solar industry in Israel but has propelled solar energy onto the global stage. His visionary leadership has earned him not one but multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations, highlighting the profound impact of his work in advancing renewable energy and promoting peace through sustainability. Join us as we unravel the remarkable story of Yosef Abramowitz, a true pioneer who has not only harnessed the power of the sun but has also ignited a revolution in the way we perceive and utilize clean energy.
Join Preston Poag in this live episode from the Concordia Annual Summit in New York City as he interviews Concordia Co-founder and Chairman, Nich Logothetis. Nich shares an entrepreneurial journey that goes beyond business, focusing on social impact. From starting an after-school snack business to creating the largest nonpartisan forum alongside the UN General Assembly, Nich discusses Concordia's commitment to sustainability and its role in addressing the refugee crisis. The episode explores eco-friendly practices, partnerships, and a policy-driven approach while emphasizing the significant impact businesses can have on global challenges.
Join us for a conversation on politics and the environment. Learn how organizations like the American Conservation Coalition are providing a platform for young people around the conservative environmental movement. Our guest, Danielle Butcher Franz, takes us on a journey through the organization's unique approach to climate advocacy and provides insights into how you can become a part of this vital movement.Danielle Butcher Franz serves as CEO of the American Conservation Coalition, where she has played an instrumental role in the organization's vision and strategy. As a founding member of ACC, Danielle has dedicated her career to building bridges between traditional conservative values and environmental advocacy. Danielle's leadership has been recognized by some of the most prestigious organizations in the country. She has been named a Forbes 30 Under 30, a MavPac Future 40, and a Clean Energy News Network 40 Under 40 lister. As an international speaker and frequent guest on national radio and television, Danielle brings her dynamic perspective on culture, conservatism, and environmental policy to audiences around the world. Her writing has been featured in publications including Fox News, The Times, National Review, and Washington Examiner.
In this episode of The Green Hour, we challenge conventional notions of climate activism as we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Sierra Quitiquit, an accomplished professional skier and model transforming the landscape of advocacy. Discover how Sierra's journey, from carving slopes to modeling for global brands, has uniquely positioned her to drive change and inspire a global audience. Explore her innovative initiative, Plastic Free Fridays, and her role as a strategic brand ambassador committed to a greener future. Plus, gain insights into the Maui Wildfire, underlining the critical importance of climate action.
Join us on a journey into the world of living buildings with a spotlight on Georgia Tech's Kendeda Building. Uncover the magic where architecture meets sustainability, as we delve into its groundbreaking design, regenerative features, and the passionate visionaries driving its impact. From energy surplus to eco-friendly materials, tune in to explore how this living marvel is reshaping our understanding of buildings and the environment.
Join us on a captivating journey as we explore the interconnected world of honey bees and their profound impact on our environment. In this episode, we're not only unraveling the crucial role honey bees play in pollination and the ecosystem, but we're also weaving in the inspiring story of Brooke Vacovsky. Through her unexpected love for honey bees, we'll witness how a computer science major's path took a transformative turn during a study abroad experience in Copenhagen. From that moment, her journey led to volunteering at Georgia Tech's beehives and eventually founding her own beekeeping venture, Southeast Beescapes. Brooke's story exemplifies the synergy between passion and environmental stewardship. Tune in to discover how these remarkable creatures shape our world, the challenges they face, and the sustainable practices that can safeguard their future. This episode offers a holistic perspective on honey bees' significance, both as vital contributors to our ecosystem and agricultural landscape.
In this episode of The Green Hour, we meet Grace Stanke, Miss America 2023, a nuclear engineering student and a passionate advocate for clean energy. Grace uses her platform to dispel myths about nuclear energy and inspire the next generation of female scientists. We also explore the significance of nuclear power in securing a sustainable energy future with insights from the groundbreaking Plant Vogtle project in Georgia. Tune in to discover the powerful potential of nuclear energy and the challenges it faces in gaining widespread support.
For a lot of people, their only experience with city zoning is from playing SimCity. While SimCity may have introduced some aspects of zoning, it only scratches the surface of its real-world complexities. In this episode, we delve into the profound impact of zoning on our environment, including its role in promoting urban sprawl and car-dependent lifestyles that contribute to increased carbon emissions. Join us as we uncover the untold environmental consequences of zoning and discuss alternative approaches to create more sustainable and eco-friendly cities. It's time to reimagine the relationship between zoning and the environment for a greener future.
Our guest on The Green Hour today is Nolan Gray, a distinguished expert in zoning and urban planning. I had the pleasure of meeting Nolan at an environmental conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he delivered a compelling talk on zoning and discussed his book titled "Arbitrary Lines: How Zoning Broke the American City and How to Fix It," which was published in 2022.
Nolan Gray currently serves as the research director for California YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) and has dedicated the majority of his career to the study of zoning. He brings a wealth of practical experience to the table, having worked as a planner in New York City. Nolan is also an Affiliated Scholar with the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, where he advises state and local policymakers on land-use policy.
With a Ph.D. in urban planning underway at UCLA, Nolan is actively contributing to the academic understanding of urban planning. He is widely recognized for his insightful contributions, with his work appearing in prominent publications such as The Atlantic, Bloomberg CityLab, and The Guardian. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Nolan Gray is a member of the esteemed America's Future 1995 Society, further demonstrating his standing as a respected authority in his field.
Picture a world where clean water flows freely, nourishing every community and quenching every thirst. Unfortunately, the reality is far from this idyllic vision. Across the globe, millions of people face the daily struggle of accessing clean and safe water. It's a crisis that not only affects their health and well-being but also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality. In the face of this challenge, there are individuals and organizations tirelessly working to make a difference. One such organization is FreeWater, a trailblazing initiative that aims to transform the way we think about water accessibility and sustainability.Founded by Josh Cliffords, FreeWater is a mission-driven company with a singular goal: to bring clean water to those who need it most. But they're not just another charitable organization. FreeWater is reimagining the concept of giving by providing a tangible product that costs nothing â free water. Their innovative approach challenges the profit-driven model that prevails in the bottled water industry and puts the power back in the hands of the people. By utilizing creative packaging and sustainable materials, FreeWater tackles not only the issue of water scarcity but also the growing problem of plastic waste.In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey into the world of FreeWater. We'll explore the origins of the organization, tracing Josh's transformative experience encountering Nigerian refugees in Rome and the profound impact it had on shaping his mission. We delve into the unique strategies employed by FreeWater, such as leveraging social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to spread their message and engage with a global audience. Additionally, we'll uncover their innovative approach to packaging, sustainability, and building strategic partnerships to maximize their impact.
Imagine a place where world-renowned government officials, heads of state, C-suite executives, and leaders of nonprofits all come together to speak on the world's most pressing issues. It would be the event of the year! Well, I'm not talking in hypotheticals because this event is real, and it is called the Concordia Annual Summit. The Concordia Annual Summit is the largest and most inclusive nonpartisan forum alongside the UN General Assembly.
Our guest on The Green Hour today is Matthew Swift, Co-founder and CEO of Concordia. Since its inception in 2011, Matthew has grown Concordia into the leading nonpartisan global affairs forum dedicated to forming cross-sector partnerships that address the greatest challenges and opportunities of our time. Hosting summits in New York City, Miami, BogotaÌ, Athens, Madrid, and London, Concordia actively bridges the divide between the business, government, and nonprofit communities.
The speakers at the Concordia Annual Summit are distinguished. Among them are former US President George W. Bush, former US President Bill Clinton, current US President Joe Biden, and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. The presidents of Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Ghana, Rwanda, and Liberia have also appeared, as have business legends Warren Buffett, George Soros, and Airbnb co-founder Joe Gebbia. Entertainers Jennifer Lawrence, Jameela Jamil, and Chris Paul have all spoken at the summit. Let's not forget Ivanka Trump, Lara Trump, First Ladies Jill Biden, Laura Bush, and Hillary Clinton.
With a strong emphasis on sustainability, the Concordia Annual Summit has become the meeting ground of the world's trailblazers in sustainability. Each year, new discussions around sustainability are held with government officials, C-suite executives, and nonprofit leaders.
Picture the last time you received a package - can you even remember what it looked like, or were you more concerned with the contents inside? Most of us see packaging as a shell that protects our items, and we often discard packaging after we take out the contents. You would be surprised to know that packaging contributes a fair amount to global waste each year.
In this episode, we are joined by Cory Connors, Director of Sustainable Packaging for Orora Packaging Solutions and Host of the Sustainable Packaging Podcast. Cory has dedicated his life to finding solutions to the global issue of packaging waste.
Not only does Cory excel in his role as the Director of Sustainable Packaging, but he has also made a significant impact through his popular TikTok channel (89,000 followers and 2.5m likes) and his own podcast, "The Sustainable Packaging Podcast." With over 100 episodes and a wide range of influential guests, Cory's podcast has become a go-to resource for anyone interested in sustainability and packaging.
Prepare to be enlightened as we explore the essence of sustainable packaging, the power of innovative design, and the crucial role of consumer education. Together, we will uncover the advantages of embracing sustainable packaging practices and the impact they can have on the business realm. Looking into the future, we catch a glimpse of the upcoming trends and developments that will shape the future of packaging. Join the conversation as we leave you with a powerful realization: packaging is more than just a means to protect and deliver productsâit is a gateway to a sustainable future.
Follow Cory on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@corygated?lang=en
Follow Cory's Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sustainable-packaging/id1566653160
It's easy to overlook the beauty and craftsmanship that architecture offers. But what if we could shift our perspective and reconnect with the spaces that surround us?
In this episode, we are joined by Blake Jackson, the Global Director of Sustainability for NORR, a renowned architecture, engineering, and design firm. Blake's journey in architecture began in the rural town of Chatsworth, GA, where his passion for shaping spaces took root. Blake has cultivated an impressive career spanning over 22 years in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Currently serving as the Global Director of Sustainability for NORR, a prestigious integrated firm with over 800 professionals in architecture, interior design, planning, and engineering, Blake's expertise influences projects across 14 locations worldwide, including the US, UK, UAE, and Canada. With a focus on 12 major building sectors, Blake spearheads NORR's commitment to sustainable design and practices.
Beyond his role at NORR, Blake is also dedicated to sharing his knowledge and shaping the next generation of architects as a professor. His contributions extend to various advisory boards, including the esteemed University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's Interior Design Program. Blake's passion for advocacy has led him to serve as the Vice President of Advocacy for the Boston Society of Architects from 2016 to 2018. He is also an invited lecturer at prestigious universities such as Harvard, Columbia, and Clemson.
Blake's remarkable contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2015, he was recognized as one of the "40 under 40" by the Building Design and Construction Magazine, acknowledging his outstanding achievements and impact in the industry. Furthermore, in 2021, Blake was honored as a LEED Fellow by the US Green Building Council, solidifying his expertise and leadership in sustainable architecture.
Have you ever been to a large stadium or arena for an athletic event and wondered what happens to all of the food left under the seats? If not, look at how much food is left under the seats next time you are at a game. The amount will astonish you and make you wonder if it is a human problem or an infrastructure issue in the arena. Bin placement in arenas is very strategic, as is educational material(s) explaining where items should go. No longer does it only matter about picking up the trash, but what is more important is where that trash goes. One arena has become the prototype for managing waste and prioritizing sustainability. State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks, not only believes in environmental sustainability, it is woven into their DNA and every decision they make.
Our guest on The Green Hour today is Sofi Armenakian, Head of Sustainability for the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena. Sofi is a trailblazer for sustainability in the sports and entertainment industries. She was the first in the NBA to hold a director-level sustainability title, and she led the arena to become the first arena in the world to achieve TRUE platinum zero waste certification. Under her leadership, State Farm Arena has become a case study for sustainability in large arenas. In 2022 alone, the arena diverted 2.5 million pounds of waste from landfills, composted 734,000 pounds of food and organic material, reused or donated 610,000 pounds of materials like food, electronics, clothing, crates, and pallets, and reduced annual waste by 160,000 pounds by eliminating paper tickets, individual condiment packets, and disposable service ware.
Sofi's path to where she is today is everything but ordinary - being born in Armenia, growing up in Germany, and moving to the US without knowing any English. She overcame the language barrier and is now trilingual (Armenian, German, and English). State Farm Arena is a sustainability success story, but as you will hear, so is Sofi's life, which is the embodiment of the American Dream.
When I say the word âmining,â where does your mind go? Do you think of heavy machinery digging into the ground? Or think of specific mining like coal mining? Or maybe you think of crypto mining which an entirely different ballgame. One aspect of mining that most people are unaware of is the ESG data collection on mine sites. Mining companies have to comply with specific ESG standards, so entire teams are designated for the tracking, gathering, and reporting of ESG data. The current method of tracking and gathering this data is inefficient and non-scalable. The method involves an individual writing the findings in a field notebook, translating that data into a spreadsheet, and creating a report for senior management. Multiple steps and people involved when there should be only one person and system. Our guest on The Green Hour today solved this very problem by creating a Software-as-a-Service platform for ESG data collection in the mining industry. Trevor Jones is the CEO and founder of Lynx Global Intelligence, a company bridging the gap between ESG, technology, and mining. With Lynxâs platform, people on the mine sites can ditch the field notebooks and spreadsheets, replacing them with an intuitive software solution. Lynxâs platform provides real-time capabilities, allows forward planning and responsiveness, and brings cost and time savings. Now, instead of using multiple platforms to achieve ESG data collection and reporting, you only need one.Check out Lynx's website - https://www.lynxglobalintelligence.com/
In Part 1 of our series with John Kutsch, you learned about the history of nuclear, the problems of nuclear, and the publicâs fear of nuclear. We looked into Plant Voggle in Georgia to understand the elements of building nuclear reactors. Lastly, we looked deeply into uranium to understand what fuels nuclear reactors today.
Today, you are going to hear part 2 of this series. You will hear from John Kutsch on a very special element on the periodic table called Thorium, you will learn about the importance of rare earth elements for the nuclear industry, specifically monazite for thorium extraction, you will uncover Chinaâs approach to thorium-based reactors and see how the nation has become a leader, you will learn what John and his team are doing at The Thorium Energy Alliance, and lastly, you will hear how policy is aiding the nuclear energy.
Our guest on The Green Hour today is someone who has dedicated his life to finding cleaner and more efficient methods of energy through nuclear, specifically using Thorium. John Kutsch is the Executive Director for the Thorium Energy Alliance, a non-governmental, non-profit educational organization based in the United States, which seeks to promote energy security to the world through the use of Thorium as a fuel source.
What is nuclear? Is it bombs? Is it energy? Is it the future? Growing up, the little I heard about nuclear was negative â learning about World War 2 and the atomic bombs that wiped out Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the meltdowns at nuclear plants in the US, and the constant posed threat of nuclear war by Eastern nations.
Nuclear is the cleanest form of energy we have, and if we want to hit the Biden administration's target of 80% renewable energy generation by 2030, nuclear is the only answer. Nuclear is the only form of renewable energy that can scale â and why is scale important, you may ask? According to the United Nations, the world population is projected to reach 8.5 billion in 2030 and increase further to 9.7 billion in 2050. Without a cohesive approach to energy, we will suffer significantly as a world.
Our guest on The Green Hour today is someone who has dedicated his life to finding cleaner and more efficient methods of energy through nuclear, specifically using Thorium. John Kutsch is the Executive Director for the Thorium Energy Alliance, a non-governmental, non-profit educational organization based in the United States, which seeks to promote energy security to the world through the use of Thorium as a fuel source.
In Part 1 of this 2-part series, you will hear about the creation of the Thorium Energy Alliance, the history of nuclear, the problems of nuclear and the public's fear, and uranium to understand what fuels nuclear reactors today.
What if I told you that components from your cellphone, computer, television, and electric vehicle all came from mining? As with components for X-ray and MRI machines, military weaponry, and advanced military aircraft. These components are rare earth minerals, and they are extracted from the earth through rare earth mining. Most people would not be too happy to know that most rare earth minerals in our objects come from China, which has a stronghold on the market.
Our guest on The Green Hour today is Emma Ernst, Government Affairs Director at GreenMet. GreenMet accelerates the development of safe, reliable rare earth mineral supply chains. Former Green Berets founded GreenMet after they realized the overwhelming need for sustainable and secure supply chains for rare earth metals, magnets, and green steel in North America.
Emma has been involved in several different forms of policy over her career. She started with educational policy with the US Department of Education, Meeting Street Schools, and Stanfordâs Hoover Institution. From there, she interned in the prestigious White House Internship Program in the Office of Vice President Mike Pence. In her internship, she worked with the administration during the COVID-19 response, the 2020 election, and the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett. She later served as a Special Assistant for Communication and Strategy in the Council of Economic Advisers in the White House. From there, she worked with Congressman Morgan Griffith, the Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committeeâs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. Today, Emma works for GreenMet, a company trying to build back domestic supply chains for rare earth minerals.
Russ DeLozier knew early in his career that sustainability would play a significant role in the rest of his life. He graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology, majoring in chemical engineering, and found himself working at The DOW Chemical Company. From there, he began a career in sustainability, specifically in the flooring industry, leading sustainability efforts for Shaw Industries, J+J Flooring Group, and Engineered Floors.
While at Shaw, Russ established the largest nationwide carpet recycling program and was directly involved in the reverse logistics of over half-billion pounds of post-consumer carpet. While at J+J Flooring Group, Russ helped lead the company to become the first in the industry to achieve 3rd party certification for Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL).
Until 2020, Russ was the longest-serving Mill representative to the Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) Board, where he was actively involved in the 2012 CARE MOU Negotiation process and the implementation of Californiaâs trial Carpet EPR legislation, AB-2398. He is the past recipient of CAREâs Carpet Recycler of the Year and one of only two two-time recipients of CRIâs distinguished Joseph J. Smrekar Memorial Award, which recognizes individuals who show exemplary service to the carpet and rug industry.
Brandie Townsend grew up on a dairy farm in western New York and knew the importance of environmental sustainability from a young age. She attended the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and received a master's degree in architecture. Fueled by a desire to build and create, it led her into various industries, but all of those industries included her original passion for sustainability. Her experience includes hospitality (InterContinental Hotels Group, Marriott, and Rubicon Global), government (City of Atlanta), consulting, and starting recycling and waste removal businesses. Through her studies at SCAD, she learned the basics of building, but over time she has learned about the importance of green building â constructing and deconstructing buildings with the environment in mind.
The Construction and Demolition (C&D) industry has been at a crossroads in terms of unbuilding. Buildings are dismantled for a number of reasons - it could be for safety, space, rebuilding, etc. It isn't the reason for unbuilding that puts the C&D industry at a crossroads - however, it's the process of demolition versus deconstruction. Demolition takes the form of complete destruction, an example being dynamite used to implode buildings. In contrast, deconstruction looks at all of the internal elements of the building to find new uses. With the C&D industry being the most significant contributor to greenhouse gases, deconstruction becomes even more critical.
Policy moves the needle with all things, and that includes sustainability. The Biden Administration has recently passed policy that invests billions of dollars in infrastructure to encourage higher levels of environmental sustainability. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and The CHIPS and Science Act were all passed to move our country closer to net zero emissions. Today, you will hear from Max Castroparedes, who has his finger on the pulse of current policy.
Max Castroparedes grew up in the Houston area and always felt led to policy and international affairs. During his time in undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia, he felt the urge to apply for an internship in the US Senate. Max ended up interning for US Senator John Cornyn and fell in love with policy. Since then, Max has spent time in the Department of Homeland Security in the Office of Policy, Strategy, and Plans and is currently a Research Assistant at Harvardâs Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, where he works with Ambassador Paula J. Dobriansky in the Future of Diplomacy Project and supports the projectâs research agenda, and coordinates events.
Alex Blum was in a very successful career in technology sales when he realized he needed more purpose. The money was great, and his lifestyle was extravagant, but he felt he needed to produce more value for the world. This led him to look into humanitarian work, and he found himself in Bangladesh in the midst of the Rohingya Genocide, trying to help the refugees who were displaced.
His story takes him from filming a documentary to increase visibility on the issue to meeting someone who would change his life forever. This person introduced Alex to the concept of bioplastics - using organic materials to make plastic products.
Today, Alex Blum is the Founder and CEO of Applied Bioplastics. The company produces material for transitional housing for natural disaster response and uses the plant compound Cellulose to manufacture plastic products. Cellulose is combined with virgin resin to reduce CO2 levels in manufacturing and create a more renewable, sustainable product.
Rodney Davenport grew up in a rural town in Michigan that lacked recycling infrastructure and education on sustainability. As he grew up and entered the workforce, he entered an industry that he would never leave - plastics. Over time, this once-foreign process of sustainability became very important in the work that he was doing.
Today, Rodney is the Vice President of CH3 Solutions, an injection molding outfit in Dalton, GA. Injection molding is a unique process that takes a small granular substance, resin, and turns it into a plastic product. CH3 Solutions uses injection molding to create plastic tiles that snap together to create recreational surfaces - basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and hockey, to name a few.
Through his career in plastics, Rodney began to see the need for sustainability. He prioritized sustainability from the start at CH3 - utilizing resources that use less waste, closing the loop by finding new ways to use rejected products, cutting waste levels down to less than 1%, and creating a culture that strives to be better.
In his first year of college at the University of Miami, Anwar Khan and his roommate noticed the lack of recycling by students on campus. In an age of instant gratification, recycling was falling behind. Recycling campaigns on campus were impactful, but they were missing the big picture â incentivization.
Anwar wanted to change all of that and reward people for recycling. Thus, he and his friends created Cycle Technology. The company uses a reverse vending machine (RVM) and a connecting app to incentivize recycling. All users have to do is insert a bottle or can, scan a QR code, and get rewarded.
What started as an idea for a pitch competition is now a trailblazing company for sustainability. Today, Cycle Technology has its infrastructure at the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Nationals, and Inter Miami CF stadiums.
Coming Soon is a Podcast for leaders in sustainabilityâpeople who care deeply about the environment and the future of our world. The Green Hour will feature innovators, activists, and government leaders in the world of sustainability. Hit the subscribe button to stay informed of future episodes!