Curiosity, applied.

Hidden In Plain Sight: Why Proving Origin Is The New Business Mandate

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

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Global supply chains are under immense stress. Whether it’s a case of sanctioned goods and impure materials or unethical labour practices, the potential for hidden risks in your supply chain is greater than ever before. Understanding the true origin of your product can be the difference between building an enduring and sustainable brand, or being blindsided by a reputational and regulatory crisis.

In this episode of Curiosity, Applied, Rupert Hodges, Chief Commercial Officer at Oritain, and Wes Tucker, CEO of Tracr (De Beers Group), explore the critical but often overlooked world of product origin. We explore how businesses can de-risk their supply chains, navigate a tightening regulatory landscape and turn radical transparency into enduring brand value and consumer trust.

Key learnings from this episode:

Recognize the triple threat of integrity, regulatory and reputational risk and why "plausible deniability" in your supply chain is no longer defensible.
Understand how tightening global regulations, including frameworks like Europe’s Digital Product Passports, will soon require all product claims to be backed by verifiable data, not just paperwork.
Learn how supply chain transparency can become a strategic advantage, using provenance storytelling to meet growing consumer demand and enhance brand value.

Host:

Ryan Skinner, Research Director at Verdantix

Guests:

Rupert Hodges - Chief Commercial Officer at Oritain
Wes Tucker - CEO of Tracr (De Beers Group)

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The Modern CSO - A New Path to CEO?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

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The Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) role has undergone a radical evolution. Once focused primarily on voluntary reporting, policy formation and goal-setting, today’s CSO are strategists, futurists and value creators, that drive commercial impact while shaping business culture and long-term performance.

In this episode, Liz Brown, Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer at Inchcape, and Andrew Lowe, Senior Client Partner, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, EMEA at Korn Ferry International, explore how the CSO role has evolved into one of the most strategic positions in global business. They unpack the traits, capabilities and organizational expectations needed to thrive and why the CSO role is now a stepping stone to broader executive leadership roles.

Key learnings from this episode:

Understand how the CSO role has shifted from reporting-focused tasks to a strategically critical position that shapes business direction, culture and long-term value creation.
Explore why sustainability teams are increasingly prioritizing strategy and transformation, while functions like finance, legal and risk teams take the lead on compliance and reporting.
Uncover how growing board involvement is redefining expectations for CSOs, shaping the skills, mindsets and experiences organizations now seek.
Learn what differentiates top CSOs today, including the ability to translate sustainability into commercial value, navigate emerging risks and build enterprise-wide influence.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO Verdantix

Guests:

Liz Brown - Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer at Inchcape plc
Andrew Lowe - Senior Client Partner, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, EMEA at Korn Ferry International

When Extreme Weather Becomes a Business Problem: Why Every Organisation Needs A Climate Resilience Strategy

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Climate change is not about 2050 – it’s a present-day business reality. From heatwaves changing travel patterns, floods shutting down hotels and transport hubs, and wildfires disrupting operations, climate events are affecting revenue, insurance costs, workforce safety, critical infrastructure and asset value. Organizations that succeed in the next decade will be those that adopt adaptive, climate resilience strategies built to evolve with changing risks.

In this episode, Danielle D’Silva, Director of Sustainability at Booking.com and Dan Zarrilli Chief Climate & Sustainability Officer at Columbia University and former NYC Resilience leader, explore how climate resilience strategy and adaption planning is evolving across industries, what we can learn from global tourism and city governments and how business leaders can shift from long-term theory to resilient, practical action.

Key learnings from this episode:

Understand the financial and operational impact of climate events and why a resilience plan is essential for both business continuity and public services.
Learn how sustainability teams can reframe climate adaptation from “compliance cost” to “business advantage”.
Discover why real-world narratives drive more action and how to use this storytelling as a lever for change.
Actionable strategies for effectively communicating climate risks to supply chain partners, investors, policmakers and stakeholders over the next five years

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO Verdantix

Guests:

Danielle D’Silva - Director of Sustainability at Booking.com
Dan Zarrilli - Chief Climate & Sustainability Officer at Columbina University and former NYC Resilience leader

New York Climate Week 2025: What “Power On” Really Means

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In 2025, shifting regulations, ambitious targets and increasing scrutiny on ROI continued to shape an uncertain sustainability landscape. As leaders across business, policy and finance gathered for one of the biggest moments in the sustainability calendar - New York Climate Week 2025 –the theme of “Power On” posed a crucial question: how can sustainability leaders maintain momentum and keep driving progress forward?

In this episode, guest hosted by Verdantix Senior Manager Nathan Goldstein, we unpack what "Power On" really meant. From corporate strategy and policy, to technology and finance, we share our practical insights and key take aways from the week – what we saw, what we heard and what it means for sustainability professionals shaping the next phase of climate action.

Join us for a front-row seat to the conversations driving corporate climate action and discover how you can deliver meaningful impact in 2026 and beyond.

Host

Nathan Goldstein, Senior Manager at Verdantix

Guests

Felicity Laird, Principal Analyst at Verdantix
Josh Graessle, Senior Analyst at Verdantix

The Intersection of Marketing & Sustainability: Making Purpose Part of the DNA

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0100

In today's market, sustainability has become an essential attribute for many brands and products. But as companies grow increasingly complex, and with many companies making similar claims, how can you authentically express your commitment in a unique voice, and what steps do you need to take to make sure you fulfil your promise to the consumer?

In this episode Al Iannuzzi, Vice President Sustainability at Esteé Lauder Companies and Preeti Srivastav, Group Head of Sustainability at Asahi Group Holdings share how these leading, multi-brand companies are embedding sustainability into their business DNA, balancing corporate commitments with consumer relevance and regulatory pressures, to build trust and long-term value.

Key learnings from this episode:

Understand how to integrate sustainability into the DNA of a company while preserving the unique voice of each brand.
Discover how to move beyond data and reports to tell compelling stories that build trust.
Learn how to manage the risks and opportunities of sustainability marketing through “offensive” and “defensive” strategies.
Discover how to align sustainability objectives with brand strategy to build resilience, trust and long-term value.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO Verdantix

Guests:

Al Iannuzzi - Vice President Sustainability at Esteé Lauder Companies
Preeti Srivastav - Group Head of Sustainability at Asahi Group Holdings

The AI Paradox: Powering Progress or Draining the Planet?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0100

AI can play a powerful role in accelerating sustainability - from optimizing energy use, to improving climate models and monitoring biodiversity – but it also brings with it a significant environmental footprint of its own. As AI’s rapid growth drives up energy consumption and increases pressure on data infrastructure, a critical question emerges for the tech sector: can it deliver economic growth and advance sustainability initiatives without causing outsized damage to the planet in the process?

In this episode Nicola Acutt, Chief Sustainability Officer at NetApp, and Lucas Joppa, Senior Managing Director & Chief Sustainability Officer at Haveli Investments (and former Chief Environmental Officer at Microsoft) reveal how the tech sector is reimagining its strategies to drive impact. We dive into why energy management has become mission-critical for tech companies, grapple with AI’s dual impact, explore the shift towards integrated business strategies and examine what it means to lead in sustainability in today’s high-stakes context.

Key learnings from this episode:

Discover why energy management is now a strategic imperative
Explore how procurement is emerging as a critical lever in the net-zero transition
Learn how the CSO role is rapidly evolving into a strategic leadership position that blends environmental insight with technical expertise.
Understand why scenario-based thinking, resilience, and stakeholder storytelling are defining the next chapter of sustainability leadership

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO Verdantix

Guests:

Nicola Acutt, Chief Sustainability Officer - NetApp
Lucas Joppa, Senior Managing Director & Chief Sustainability Officer - Haveli Investments (former Chief Environmental Officer at Microsoft)

From the Ground Up: Building Resilient Supply Chains in Cocoa and Rubber

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0100

Businesses are under immense pressure to not only ensure the continuity of their operations but also to demonstrate ethical sourcing, environmental stewardship, and long-term risk management. As supply chains stretch across borders and involve countless stakeholders, building resilient supply chains isn’t just about managing logistics—it’s about securing the future of both business and the communities they rely on.

In this episode, Kara Fulcher of Michelin and Tilmann Silber of Barry Callebaut Group share insights into how the rubber and cocoa industries are future-proofing their supply chains. From getting ahead of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) to empowering smallholder farmers and leveraging digital tools, they reveal how long-term vision, data-driven approaches and cross-functional collaboration are reshaping value chains for impact and resilience.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Discover how global sustainability leaders are proactively addressing new regulations like the EUDR to stay ahead of compliance pressures.
Explore strategies for embedding resilience into supply chains through smallholder farmer empowerment, ecosystem protection, and long-term supply security.
Uncover the critical role of cutting-edge digital tools in revolutionizing supply chain management, ensuring traceability, and guiding ethical sourcing decisions.
Learn why community engagement and long-term planning is key to scaling climate action and driving meaningful decarbonization across global value chains.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Kara Fulcher, Director of Sustainability Strategy, North America - Michelin
Tilmann Silber, Head of Net Zero - Barry Callebaut Group

From Carbon to Resilience: Future-Proofing the Built Environment

Mon, 26 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Buildings contribute 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions, making the built environment one of the most critical frontiers in the fight against climate change. But as geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions grow more unpredictable, the urgency to decarbonize buildings has never been higher - not just to meet climate goals, but to safeguard operational continuity and long-term business resilience.

In this episode, Verdantix Research Director Claire Stephens and Senior Manager, Dayann Charles, unpack the critical intersection of building decarbonization and resilience, drawing on insights from the Verdantix Building Decarbonization Barometer report - a global study of 300 senior real estate, energy and sustainability executives globally, examining the rollout of decarbonization measures across their building portfolios - they explore why offices, retail spaces, and hospitals offer both a significant emissions challenge and a high-impact opportunity. We examine how strategic decarbonization can reduce risk exposure, enhance energy security, and what it truly takes to stay ahead in an era of tightening regulations and rising stakeholder expectations.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Gain insights into the complexities of building decarbonization, and the impact of evolving regulations and stakeholder expectations on your sustainability strategy.
Discover a robust five-part framework addressing operational tactics, energy supply chain electrification, and prioritizing high-impact areas for action.
Understand investment trends and the risks of inaction, and why failing to decarbonize is becoming a financial and reputational liability.
Identify practical decarbonization steps to achieve your sustainability goals, leveraging "low-hanging fruit" for quick wins.

Read the full report here.

Host:

Ryan Skinner, Research Director, Net Zero & Energy Transition – Verdantix

Guests:

Dayann Charles, Senior Manager – Verdantix
Claire Stephens, Research Director, Real Estate & Built Environment – Verdantix

Adapting to Evolving ESG Challenges: Strategies for Resilience in a Changing World

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

As the geopolitical landscape continues to reshape corporate responsibility and sustainability strategy, businesses must navigate increasing fragmentation, evolving regulatory demands, and changing stakeholder expectations. Strategic foresight and adaptable planning have become essential for executives guiding their organizations through this complex period of transition.

In this episode, Laurent Lhopitallier of Sanofi and Richard Gardiner of World Benchmarking Alliance explore the intricate and fast-evolving world of ESG reporting and strategy. We shed light on how companies can effectively adapt to new sustainability standards, align with established global frameworks, and leverage double materiality to enhance risk management and drive long-term value creation.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Gain clarity on the current state and future trajectory of ESG reporting, including the growing role of governance and data integrity.
Understand the challenges posed by shifting regulations, such as the Omnibus Act, CSRD and CSDD, and how companies can plan strategically amidst uncertainty.
Explore how ESG ratings are shaping investment strategies, the complexity of data quality and the need for methodology standardization.
Learn how companies can leverage sustainability reporting frameworks to enhance sustainability efforts and stakeholder trust.
Discover how assessing both financial materiality and impact materiality can transform risk management, inform strategic decisions, and support sustainable growth.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Richard Gardiner, Strategic Public Policy Lead, World Benchmarking Alliance
Laurent Lhopitallier, Head of ESG Performance, Sanofi

From Obligation to Opportunity: Turning Sustainability into Business Value

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:00:00 +0000

With the regulatory spotlight on sustainability brighter than ever, most forward-thinking companies have long recognized that sustainability creates business value and opportunity far beyond compliance. By embedding opportunity-driven transformation into their core strategy, organizations are unlocking new growth avenues, fuelling innovation, and building long-term resilience.

In this episode, Juan Aguiriano of Kerry Group and Mike Colarossi from Avery Dennison, challenge the view of sustainability as a compliance requirement and reveal how it can be a powerful driver of market opportunity and resilience. We explore the practical steps to embedding sustainability into your organization’s DNA. From critical governance and cultural shifts, to moving beyond top-down mandates and cultivating a purpose-driven culture that engages everyone from the boardroom to the frontlines.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Learn how to transform sustainability into a competitive advantage
Discover strategies that drive meaningful and measurable sustainability change within your organization
Understand the pivotal role of strategic investments in accelerating sustainability progress

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Juan Aguiriano, Group Head of Sustainability at Kerry Group
Mike Colarossi, Head of Enterprise Sustainability at Avery Dennison

Digitizing Sustainability: The AI-Powered Transformation of Business

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The convergence of AI and other cutting-edge technological advancements with escalating sustainability concerns has placed digital transformation at the forefront of every organization's agenda.

In this episode R. Mukund of Benchmark Gensuite and Lori Coombs, former NASA Sr. Principal Technical Manager and current DHS Sr. Networking Engineer, explore the critical intersection of digital innovation and sustainability, moving beyond buzzwords to offer practical guidance for Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) and business leaders. We examine the transformative potential of digital solutions, particularly AI, while addressing the crucial need for responsible implementation and a balanced approach to adoption.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Learn how AI empowers companies to analyze vast datasets, improve ESG reporting, and enhance disclosures, while addressing the challenges of AI adoption.
Explore why enhanced data, robust governance, and streamlined processes are essential for sustainability success.
Discover how organizations are moving beyond siloed approaches to embrace integrated strategies connecting finance, EHS, and sustainability.
Understand how CSOs can engage diverse generations in sustainability and tailor AI-driven strategies for maximum impact.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Lori D. Coombs, CEO at WWCM and former NASA Sr. Principal Technical Manager
R Mukund, CEO at Benchmark Gensuite

From Talk to Walk: Turning Net Zero Pledges into Real-World Impact

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The era of ambiguous net zero pledges is over. It’s time for organizations to translate their commitments into concrete action plans and measurable results.

In this episode Stuart Wright of Aviva and Simin Zhou from UL Solutions share their insights on tackling one of the most pressing challenges for sustainability and net-zero leaders: moving from setting ambitious targets to achieving tangible outcomes. We explore the practical steps, strategies, and innovations required to effectively implement sustainability programs and deliver real-world impact.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Explore the intersection of finance, governance and sustainability, and the increasingly important role financial departments play in driving sustainability initiatives.
Discover how to set ambitious yet achievable targets, while ensuring transparency and accountability to stakeholders.
Learn actionable steps firms can take to secure funding and deliver meaningful results that align with their 2030 net-zero targets.
Understand the critical role of data, comparable metrics and performance-based reporting in driving sustainability and attracting investment.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Stuart Wright, Operations Net Zero Delivery Director at Aviva
Simin Zhou, Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability and Development, Software & Advisory – UL Solutions

From Strategy to Impact: Accelerating the CSO’s Mission in 2025

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

As the clock ticks down and the window for action narrows, the next 5-10 years are critical for shaping the future of our planet. With 2050 climate goals looming, all eyes are on 2025 as the year for Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) to take immediate, measurable action in driving real change in global climate outcomes.

The challenge, however, no longer belongs to CSOs alone—it demands full-scale collaboration across business functions to reduce risks, seize critical opportunities, and drive meaningful impact for the planet.

In this episode, the CSOs of Virgin and Deloitte delve into the evolving priorities and critical challenges facing sustainability leaders as they prepare for 2025. They share valuable insights on balancing short-term demands with long-term strategies, embedding sustainability into core business operations, and leveraging technology to accelerate progress.

Key Learnings from this podcast:

From Vision to Action: Discover how CSOs are prioritizing immediate actions without compromising long-term sustainability vision.
Securing Organizational Buy-In: Learn how CSOs are successfully integrating sustainability into organizational strategy.
The Power of Storytelling: Understand the importance of impactful communication in engaging stakeholders, building trust, and driving organizational commitment to sustainability.
Integrating Financial Risks: Explore the growing urgency of addressing climate-related financial risks and embedding them into fiscal planning for a more resilient future. Utilizing innovative tools to accelerate sustainability efforts and measure progress.

Host:

David Metcalfe, CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Darshana Myronidis, Group Director of Sustainability at Virgin
Smruti Naik-Jones, Chief Sustainability Officer - North and South Europe & UK. Deloitte LLP

US Election Special Edition: The Sustainability-Related Implications Of The 2024 Elections

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000

With all eyes on next week’s election in the United States, Verdantix Principal Analyst Jessica Pransky provides a briefing on what the outcome will mean for sustainability leaders. Looking beyond the differing approaches of the two administrations, we dive into the impact of state level changes and the nuances that are often by the headlines.

Nature’s ROI: Can Biodiversity Lead To A Healthier Planet And Bottom Line?

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0100

As biodiversity climbs to the top of the business agenda, companies are finding that protecting nature isn't just about fulfilling environmental obligations - it's also key to long-term profitability and resilience.

In this episode, we examine how biodiversity initiatives can shape corporate success and contribute to a healthier planet. We delve into the current landscape of biodiversity strategies, exploring the challenges businesses face, and the emerging technologies that offer new hope. This episode is a must-listen for CSOs, biodiversity executives and business leaders seeking to drive positive change and discover actionable steps for making biodiversity a core part of their sustainability strategy.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Discover expert views on the costs, implementation and expertise required for successful biodiversity management.
Learn how businesses can turn biodiversity from an obligation into an opportunity, building a more resilient and profitable business future.
Explore the role of sustainability officers in driving positive change.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guest Speakers

Bärbel Hundt, Biodiversity Strategy Director at Bayer Crop Science
Sophie Mairesse, Biodiversity Net Gain Lead - ecologist at Network Rail

California Burning: Lessons in Combatting Wildfires

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0100

Wildfires are raging across the globe, with devastating consequences. In 2023, nearly 400 million hectares were scorched by wildfires worldwide, with this year’s toll already surpassing 167 million hectares. While advances in technology are aiding in the mitigation and response to wildfires, the threat is also growing as the climate becomes more extreme.

In this episode we delve into the critical lessons learned from California, a state on the front line of the battle against wildfire. Our expert guests share their strategies for risk management and explain how to build resilience. Listen now to discover how advanced technologies, such as AI and machine learning, are transforming wildfire management and response, and building a more resilient future.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Explore the role of climate change in fueling these devastating fires
Uncover innovative strategies for wildfire mitigation and prevention
Discover how advanced technologies are being leveraged to enhance risk assessment and response strategies.
Learn actionable steps to protect communities and ecosystems from this growing threat.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guests

Andrew Abranches, Senior Director, Wildfire Preparedness and Operations at PG&E
Mark S. Ghilarducci, Former Director of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services; President and CEO at Emergent Global Solutions.

H2 – Oh No? Navigating Corporate Water Challenges

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 15:00:00 +0100

Water scarcity isn't just an environmental issue, it's a business risk. From droughts in India to delays on the Rhine and disruptions in France's nuclear plants, the requirement for comprehensive water strategies has never been clearer.

In this episode we explore the necessity of aligning sustainability with business continuity planning, the drivers and challenges of water stewardship, and how companies can thrive in a water-stressed world. Our expert guests share their insights on the intricacies of implementing robust corporate water strategies and reveal how these efforts not only bolster economic growth but also enhance social well-being and ecosystem health.

Key learnings from this podcast:

The importance of integrated water risk management and aligning sustainability efforts with business continuity planning.
How companies like PepsiCo are working to improve water efficiency, replenish supplies, and increase access for millions.
Innovative approaches and future expectations for corporate water stewardship.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

David Grant - Senior Director: Global Climate & Water Solutions at PepsiCo
Will Sarni - CEO at Water Foundry

Banking on Net Zero: The Finance Sector's Role in Driving Climate Action

Wed, 15 May 2024 13:00:00 +0100

The finance sector is at a critical crossroads, facing pressure from regulators and stakeholders to take action on climate change, yet significant challenges hinder its effectiveness. Wielding considerable influence as a catalyst for change, can banks lead the charge on climate action?

In this episode, we delve into the complex world of financed emissions and explore how measuring and managing these emissions is crucial for reaching net-zero goals. Our expert guests shed light on the influence of the financial sector on climate change and reveal the cutting-edge tools and initiatives driving transformative change.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Discover the innovative approaches to measuring financed emissions and the importance of standardized reporting.
Explore the challenges faced by smaller clients in sustainability-linked lending and data quality, and how they are being addressed.
Learn how banks are leveraging AI, data analytics, and innovative tools to equip clients in their transition to sustainable practices.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Linda-Eling Lee - Founding Director and Head of the MSCI Sustainability Institute at MSCI Inc.
Saad Malik - Sustainability Director, Business & Commercial Banking at Lloyds Banking Group

Transforming Aspirations into Realities: The Evolving Role of the Chief Sustainability Officer

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0100

Translating ambitious corporate sustainability goals into tangible results can be a complex challenge that requires transformative leadership.

In this episode we explore the multifaceted and fast-evolving role of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). Our expert guests share their perspectives on contending with financial pressures, untangling supply chain complexity, forging relationships across organizations and economic eco-systems, and the gargantuan task of aligning corporate ambitions with achievable realities.

Key learnings from this podcast:

· Learn how businesses can resiliently adapt to climate change through stress testing and scenario planning.

· Discover the importance of upskilling your workforce to seamlessly transition towards a carbon-neutral economy.

· Explore the role of innovation in driving sustainable progress.

· Get expert views on navigating the regulatory landscape, managing investor expectations, and planning ahead in an era of polarized politics.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Amy Brachio - Global Vice Chair, Sustainability at EY

Sandy Nessing – VP & Chief Sustainability Officer at American Electric Power (AEP)

Sustainability Strategies: Is The Path To Sustainability Circular?

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Amidst the challenges posed by climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation, the call for businesses to adopt circular practices resonates louder than ever.

In this episode we navigate the challenges that businesses face in their quest for sustainability and integrating circularity into business operations. Our expert guests discuss how the concept of circularity is increasingly becoming the cornerstone of how products are conceptualized and requires a collaborative journey that demands a holistic approach across business functions and sustainability initiatives.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Understand the integral role circular economy strategies play as a catalyst for industry-wide transformation.
Explore how companies are overcoming challenges related to product design and supply chains in the pursuit of circularity.
Discover the importance of policy and collaboration in shaping industry-wide adoption of circular practices.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guests:
Ramon Arratia - Chief Sustainability Officer at Ball Corporation
Mark Bamber - Head of Circularity & Remanufacturing at Volvo Group

Unravelling The Complexities Of Carbon Pricing

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

Facing an increasingly complex matrix of fluctuating and escalating carbon prices across global markets, businesses are reassessing their investment strategies and overhauling risk management approaches as they transition towards a more sustainable future.

In this episode, we dive into the intricate world of carbon pricing. We examine the impact of rising carbon prices on businesses, discuss the increasing need for carbon dioxide removal, and explore the future implications of supply and demand dynamics on the carbon credits market. This podcast is a must-listen for organizations that are intensifying their efforts to achieve their climate goals.

Key learnings from this podcast:

Insights into how companies are employing internal carbon pricing as a tool to guide investment decisions and achieve their climate targets.
The future growth of the carbon removal market and the pivotal role it plays driving meaningful and sustainable change.
The factors influencing carbon prices and their impact on market stability.

Host:
David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix

Guests:

Ingo Ramming - Head of Carbon Markets, BBVA

Louis Uzor - Climate Policy Manager, Climeworks

Editor's Note: In this episode, Louis Uzor states that SwissRe is implementing an internal carbon price of 200$/t. This is only partially correct, as SwissRe introduced an internal carbon price of 100$/t in 2021 that will gradually increase towards USD200/t by 2030. Find out more here.

Enhancing Collaboration Between Risk & Sustainability Teams For Climate Resilience

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000

The convergence of risk and sustainability teams is now of boardroom importance as they unite on their common purpose: building climate resilience within their organizations.

In this episode, our expert guests delve into the critical intersection of sustainability and risk management. They reveal their collaborative strategies, offer an understanding of how processes are coordinated and responsibilities assigned, and explain how complementary skill-sets and toolkits can help organizations deal with a challenge that has gone from emerging to immediate in less than five years.

Host:

David Metcalfe - CEO at Verdantix

Guest speakers:

Linda Freiner - Group Head of Sustainability at Zurich Insurance Group Ltd
Lars Henneberg - Vice President, Head of Global Risk Management at A.P. Moller-Maersk

Key learnings from this podcast:

Explore the benefits of merging sustainability risks into the broader enterprise risk management framework.
Understand the importance of adaptability in risk assessments, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.
Learn about the necessity of forward-looking strategies that go beyond traditional risk models.

Unpacking New York Climate Week: Reflections on progress

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0100

This year's New York Climate Week was bigger than ever, highlighting the corporate world's growing commitment to climate action. With the theme "we can, we will" for 2023, the event emphasized immediate action and innovation in the face of climate risks, resource shortages, and the need for advancements.

In this episode, guest hosted by Verdantix senior analyst Joy Trinquet, our expert team review the highs and lows of New York Climate Week 2023, exploring collaboration but also the gap between words and actions. We'll also explore the pressing questions for the next 12 months leading up to New York Climate Week 2024 and how we can turn promises into real actions.

Join us as we reflect on the lessons from New York Climate Week 2023 and chart a course toward addressing the urgent challenges of climate change.

Guest Host:

Joy Trinquet - Senior Analyst, Verdantix

Guest Speakers:

David Metcalfe – CEO, Verdantix
Adam Barnard - Principal Analyst, Verdantix
Katelyn Johnson - Principal Analyst, Verdantix

Decarbonizing the Future: Exploring the Carbon Dioxide Removal Market

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:00:00 +0100

Innovative solutions are crucial to making a meaningful impact in the ongoing battle against climate change. In this episode our expert guests explain the complexities of the Carbon Dioxide Removal market, including demand drivers, supply-side constraints and the pace and direction of technological change.

Covering the broader context of voluntary emissions, the economics of Direct Air Capture and the challenges facing corporate buyers, this podcast is a comprehensive guide to the latest developments in a fast-changing landscape.

Host:

David Metcalfe - CEO at Verdantix

Guest speakers:

Kash Burchett - Global Head of Carbon Removal Technologies at HSBC
Tim Christophersen - Vice President, Climate Action at Salesforce

Key learnings from this podcast:

Gain insights into the significance of high-quality CDR credits for achieving net-zero goals and sustainability targets.
Discover the pivotal role that businesses play in driving impactful change and the limitations of relying solely on voluntary actions.
Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and lead your organization toward more effective climate action.

Find out more and listen to all episodes at verdantix.com/podcast

Feeling The Heat: Implications Of The 1.5°C Temperature Increase

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0100

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently announced that there is a 66% chance of average global land surface temperatures exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius for at least one year between 2023 and 2027. This prediction, arriving at the same time as a series of extreme global climate events, is focusing minds on an accelerated trajectory for global warming. In this podcast, we explore the implications of this prediction for climate scenarios, climate risk and policy, and the need for intensified efforts to design solutions for the immediate future.

Host: David Metcalfe
Speakers: David Carlin & Katelyn Johnson

Rethinking The “S” In ESG

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0100

The prominence of climate change has tended to skew ESG discussions towards Environmental issues. But in some industries and some countries Social issues are more material. This podcast will provide a fresh look at the “S” in ESG to help experts in the field recalibrate.

The Voluntary Carbon Market: Are We At The Inflection Point?

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

At the UN COP 26 and COP 27 negotiations, an agreement was finally reached on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement which established market rules for international trading of some carbon credits. However, Article 6 is yet to be implemented, and it is uncertain to what extent it will provide a framework for the voluntary carbon market.

With demand low and a still-evolving marketplace, will an imperfect carbon market have a significant impact on reducing global emissions by 2050? Our latest podcast discusses the evolving landscape of UN defined market rules, the role of carbon credit trading exchanges in driving growth and the challenges that need to be overcome to create a long-term solution.

Environmental markets expert and CEO and founder of Redshaw Advisors, Louis Redshaw, joins Tommy Ricketts, CEO and co-founder of BeZero Carbon, a global ratings agency for the voluntary carbon market, to share their expertise, explore what market participants need to achieve in 2023 to ensure continued growth, and predict what the future holds for the voluntary carbon markets.

Reframing The Executive Mindset On Climate Strategy And Time

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

As global GHG emissions continue to rise it’s clear that the targets set by the Paris Agreement are now unachievable. Our latest episode discusses how corporate leaders are addressing the inevitable increase in short-term climate risk and the challenges posed by the requirement to accelerate the net zero transition.

We’re joined by NED and Chair of Chapter Zero, Julie Baddeley, and Charlie Langdale, Head of Climate Risk and Resilience at global insurance broker, Howden Group. This wide-ranging discussion explores the extent of corporate preparedness, attitudes to long and short-term risk and the crucial role played by the insurance industry in assessing and mitigating climate impacts.

Navigating The Tech Bear Market: Is There An ESG & Climate Tech Bubble?

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 20:00:00 +0100

Every week brings a new announcement of a climate or ESG tech firm raising more than $100 million from blue-chip investors whilst achieving unicorn status with fewer than 100 employees. Will these valuations continue, or will the sector be a victim of the broader tech bear market?

ESG Pragmatists vs Sustainability Idealists: What’s The Problem?

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0100

We’re joined by Evan Greenfield of S&P Global and Orlan Boston of EY to discuss the relationship between risk-focused ESG metrics and the broader aims of sustainability practitioners. Are these approaches complimentary or fundamentally at odds with each other? Will they converge in the period ahead, and if so, which language will they use to describe their aims?