As heatwaves scorch Europe and global electricity demand surges—up 4% in 2024 alone—can artificial intelligence be part of the solution to climate change rather than the problem?
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, Wrishi and Carmine explore the double-edged sword of AI’s environmental footprint. From the staggering water and energy consumption of data centers to AI-driven breakthroughs in energy efficiency, methane detection, wildfire response, and food waste reduction, this conversation offers a candid look at AI's climate promise—and its pitfalls.
Drawing from new insights in the Global Electricity Review 2025 by Ember and projections from Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, we examine how AI could help cut up to 5.4 billion tonnes of CO₂ by 2035—but only if used wisely.
Whether you're in tech, policy, or simply climate-curious, this is the episode to understand how AI is shaping the future of our planet—one algorithm at a time.
What does a loaf of sourdough have to do with fighting climate change?
In this episode, we sit down with Maddie Hamann, co-founder of PACHA Bread, to explore the unexpected connections between regenerative farming, food allergies, zero-waste packaging—and the future of sustainability.
Maddie shares how she made the leap from ocean science to sourdough, and what it’s really like building a purpose-driven business while raising a young family. We talk about sourcing from regenerative farms, designing compostable packaging, and why your grocery list might be one of the most powerful climate tools you have.
It’s a grounded, inspiring look at how climate action can begin right in your kitchen.
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we’re joined by renowned chemist and energy expert Nicola Armaroli to unpack the state of the global energy transition. As a research director at Italy’s National Research Council and a leading voice in science communication, Nicola brings both deep technical insight and a clear-eyed perspective on the societal and narrative challenges slowing our progress.
We ask: If you had gone to sleep in 2022 and woken up today—what would you see?
We explore the evolution of solar energy, the hard truths about renewable adoption across sectors, and what’s still missing in how we talk about energy and climate.
The conversation ends with a deeply personal take: what individuals can do to contribute to a more resilient, sustainable energy system—and how we can build a better public narrative around it.
Keywords: energy transition, Nicola Armaroli, solar energy, renewables, science communication, climate action, energy systems, sustainable future, circular economy, sustainability podcast
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we sit down with Helen Neal, founder and CEO of HN Communications, a multi-award-winning sustainability communications and events agency. Helen shares expert insights on how global brands like HEINEKEN, Bosch, and The Climate Group are navigating the complexities of sustainability messaging, partnerships, and stakeholder engagement.
We explore why clear, authentic communication is essential for sustainability success, how companies can move beyond buzzwords to real action, and what it takes to run high-impact sustainability events. Helen also opens up about her journey as a founder scaling a fully remote global team—and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Whether you’re a corporate leader, communications professional, or sustainability enthusiast, this episode offers valuable takeaways on building trust, creating impact, and shaping the future of sustainable business.
Keywords: sustainability communications, corporate sustainability, ESG strategy, stakeholder engagement, sustainability events, green marketing, sustainability partnerships, HN Communications, Helen Neal, remote teams, climate action, sustainable leadership
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we sit down with Marjory Wildcraft—founder of The Grow Network and a global leader in modern self-sufficient living. Featured by National Geographic as an expert in off-grid lifestyles, Marjory has empowered hundreds of thousands of people to grow their own food and natural medicine.
We dive into how regenerative gardening can transform not just your backyard, but your entire relationship with sustainability. Marjory shares practical tips on growing food, preparing for climate-related disruptions, and embracing resilience through community. We also explore the role of home-grown medicine, how to start with little or no land, and why self-sufficiency is more urgent than ever.
Whether you're a climate-conscious urban dweller, a homestead dreamer, or just trying to reconnect with what you eat—this episode is full of insights you can act on.
Topics covered:
Regenerative gardening for beginners
Food security and climate adaptation
Growing your own medicine
Modern homesteading and preparedness
Building resilient communities
Keywords: self-sufficient living, grow your own food, homesteading, regenerative gardening, food security, climate resilience, Marjory Wildcraft, The Grow Network, sustainability, survival skills, backyard gardening
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we dive into Sustainable Entrepreneurship with Josh Dorfman, founder of Plantd and Supercool, and former host of The Lazy Environmentalist. Josh shares his inspiring journey from sustainable media to climate-tech innovation, providing practical insights on creating profitable businesses that positively impact the planet. We explore carbon-negative building solutions, the power of storytelling in driving climate action, and key strategies for entrepreneurs committed to sustainability. Tune in to learn how aligning sustainability with profitability can shape a greener, more resilient future.
Keywords: Sustainability, Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Climate-Tech, Carbon-Negative, Innovation, Climate Solutions, Business Sustainability, Josh Dorfman, Environmental Business, Impact Investing.
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we dive into two crucial reports shaping Europe's clean energy future. First, we explore the Draghi Report by Mario Draghi, highlighting Europe's economic challenges and opportunities amidst its ambitious energy transition. Then, we unpack the "Cleantech Reality Check" from Cleantech for Europe and Systemiq, examining the stark gaps between policy goals and real-world implementation of essential clean technologies. Discover what Europe must urgently address—funding gaps, permitting delays, and infrastructure bottlenecks—to maintain both its climate leadership and global competitiveness. Listen now and join the conversation!
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe and share with your network!
In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we explore why heat pumps are rapidly replacing gas boilers and how this shift is key to reducing energy costs, cutting CO₂ emissions, and building a net-zero future.
🔎 What’s inside this episode?
✅ The real economics of switching from a gas boiler to a heat pump
✅ How Switzerland is leading Europe’s electrification of heating
✅ Overcoming consumer concerns: Do heat pumps work in cold climates?
✅ The future of Meier Tobler and the heating industry
🔥 Our guest:Sylvain Cognard – expert in electrified heating and building services, sharing first-hand industry insights.
📢 Want to future-proof your home’s heating?Tune in now!
Can you make money while saving the planet? In this episode of Sustainability Forward, we sit down with Clemence Ollivier, Investment Principal at Swen Blue Ocean Fund, to explore the evolving world of impact investing, sustainable finance, and cleantech innovation. From working on oil rigs to leading data & analytics at a food waste startup, Clemence’s career journey is a masterclass in pivoting towards purpose-driven investing.
We discuss:
🔹 The strategy behind Blue Ocean Fund and its focus on ocean health and sustainability
🔹 How private equity integrates sustainability without sacrificing returns
🔹 Common misconceptions about ESG and impact investing
🔹 Emerging cleantech trends and where the biggest opportunities lie
If you're interested in sustainable finance, VC/PE investments, or the future of ESG, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!
🎧 Tune in now and discover how capital can drive real environmental impact while delivering strong financial returns.
#ImpactInvesting #SustainableFinance #Cleantech #ESG #VentureCapital #PrivateEquity #Sustainability #BlueEconomy #ClimateTech #FoodWaste #SustainabilityForward
As we wrap up the year, join hosts Wrishi and Carmine for a special episode of Sustainability Forward! This reflective journey revisits the highlights from all 16 episodes recorded this year, featuring incredible guests and inspiring discussions. From the urgency of net zero to groundbreaking insights on biodiversity, energy transitions, and climate finance, this episode ties it all together in one compelling narrative.
Discover actionable takeaways, listener favorites, and exclusive insights into what's coming next year. Tune in for a comprehensive flashback and a glimpse into the future of sustainability!
Keywords: Sustainability podcast, climate action, energy transition, biodiversity, net zero, ESG, COP29, climate finance.
