SustainNOW Podcast - Learn from entrepreneurs & scientists about climate solutions

Welcome back to the SustainNOW Podcast, where you learn from the newest sustainable innovations from founders and scientists. Today, we're taking a deep dive into the realm of energy storage with a particular focus on advanced battery designs. Joining us is Paul, the visionary mind behind 8inks, a company committed to revolutionizing the lithium-ion battery manufacturing process. Paul will walk us through the challenges and opportunities in scalable battery manufacturing, and how 8inks is addressing the need for efficient energy storage solutions. HIs journey into battery development began during his time at ETH Zurich, where he participated in a competition to build the best electric race car. Later he conducted research on battery materials in California. This episode is for you, if you would like to understand more about battery technology, the evolution of lithium batteries and possible future applications. But it also highlights the limitation of lithium as an energy storage system. The following description is generated by beta AI :) Prepare to be energized as we journey alongside Paul from 8inks, who's sparking revolutionary changes in the world of energy storage. From his formative days at ETH Zurich to his groundbreaking contributions today, Paul shares the narrative of lithium-ion batteries – their rise to prominence and the art of perfecting cell selection. As we navigate the complex landscape of battery integration, Paul's insights illuminate the engineering conundrums and material science considerations that are propelling us toward a sustainable future. This episode isn't just about the 'what' – it's about the 'how'. Paul unveils 8INX's pioneering multi-layer curtain coating technique, poised to dramatically boost electrode structures and battery performance. Behind the scenes of battery production, we witness the transition from lab-scale innovation to the tantalizing prospect of mass production, which could ultimately slash manufacturing costs. Join us as we unpack these advancements that could redefine energy storage systems and set new benchmarks for the industry, all through the lens of 8INX's visionary approach. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

Today, we're focusing on MuteBox, a company dedicated to redefining workspace design by offering modular phone booths and meeting rooms with a sustainability focus. Joining us are Christian Toft Bach, who is leading MuteBox's marketing efforts and joint the company almost from day 1, and Adil Sheikh, who is focusing on the design of Mutebox to reduce the carbon footprint. Together, they'll discuss how MuteBox is addressing the new hybrid working environment and at the same time reducing the environmental impact. MuteBox aims to provide sustainable, flexible solutions prioritizing employee satisfaction and acoustic optimization. Christian and Adil will share insights into the company's vision and the challenges they face in creating greener and more hybrid workspaces. Before we dive in, let's consider the importance of sustainable workspace design in reducing environmental impact. 6% of the global emissions is only contributed by energy consumption of commercial properties. Around 10-15% of the global emissions can be linked to office space if you include construction, furniture, energy and etc. So, if you're interested in sustainable workspace solutions, join us as we explore MuteBox's journey toward a greener future in the office space. The following description was developed with Beta AI :) Embark on an enlightening excursion into the future of office spaces with the innovators from Mutebox, Christian Toft Bach and Adil Sheikh. These trailblazers in the realm of sustainable workspace design reveal how their eco-friendly, modular phone booths and meeting rooms are not only shaping the hybrid work environment but also setting new benchmarks in the industry. From the conception of Mutebox on Denmark's Dragon's Den to its ascendancy as a front-runner in Denmark, Christian and Adil unpack the intricate relationship between employee well-being, environmental stewardship, and acoustic perfection. Their insights into the product's evolution and their head-on approach to the complexities of greening office spaces in a competitive market are nothing short of revolutionary. Strap in as we traverse the intricate landscape of modular office design and its potent role in curbing carbon emissions. The built environment's hefty carbon footprint gets a meticulous dissection, showcasing how Mutebox's techniques could herald a new era of sustainable commercial real estate. Their collaborative endeavors with architects, designers, and clients are knitting together a greener, more conscious future. We'll also shed light on the delicate dance between fostering collaboration and upholding individual productivity—a quintessential balance for the hybrid work models shaping offices today. Finally, join us as we cast a lens over the meticulous craftsmanship that embodies Mutebox's commitment to sustainability. We'll discuss the innovative materials that lend both durability and environmental friendliness to their designs, including the use of recycled PET and groundbreaking alternatives like mycelium. It's not just about creating a space; it's about creating a legacy of sustainability that carries forward as Mutebox charts its growth across the Nordic landscape and beyond. Christian and Adil leave us with profound lessons on maintaining stellar standards and cultivating relationships that echo the ethos of Mutebox—where the synthesis of dynamic workspaces and the health of our planet coalesce. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode we will explore the world of scaling bioeconomy to replace 50% of petrochemical products in the future. That is the bold vision of Synonym, a company dedicated to accelerating the transition to better, more sustainable materials through bioproducts. Joining us today is Joshua Lachter, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Synonym. With a background in finance, Joshua brings a different perspective to the world of biomanufacturing, and he's here to shed light on the potential of fermentation and its role in revolutionizing our daily products from food, over chemical products such as Lubricants or fibers to special chemicals like enzymes or plant-based proteins. Synonym's mission is to create a new green asset class - a bioeconomy asset class to enable the commercialization and manufacture of bioproducts. Joshua will walk us through the company's vision, the challenges they're addressing, and the partnerships they're developing to scale bioproducts on industry scale. But before we dive into the details, let's take a moment to understand the magnitude of the problem Synonym is trying to tackle. From the high cost of production to the limitations of available current fermentation infrastructures, Joshua will guide us through the complexities of the biomanufacturing landscape and highlight the urgent need for scalable solutions. So, if you're curious about the future of sustainable materials and the pivotal role of bioproducts in driving this transition, you won't want to miss this episode. The following description was generated with AI :) Embark on a transformative exploration into the bioeconomy with Joshua Lachter, Synonym's visionary co-founder, as we discuss the bold ambition of biologically revolutionizing the materials of our everyday lives. Discover a world where nature's ingenuity provides us with everything from biodegradable cups to complex, spider silk-like proteins, all while treading lightly on the planet. Our conversation with Joshua shines a light on the potential for biomaterials to not only replace petrochemical products but also enhance their functionality, offering a glimpse into a future where sustainability and superior performance go hand in hand. As we wade through the intricacies of scaling biomanufacturing, Joshua from Synonym reveals the strategic moves and digital tools, like Capacitor and Scaler, that are poised to accelerate the growth of companies from fledgling startups to industry heavyweights. This episode peels back the layers of precision fermentation's vast applications beyond food, touching on the creation of polymers, resins, and synthetic methane. It's a peek into the colossal efforts being poured into building an infrastructure that supports the escalating demand for bio-based goods. Finally, we explore the landscape of standardizing equipment and mobilizing financing in the synthetic biology sector. Learn how Synonym's journey, from a simple stroll in the woods to forging alliances with industry magnates like Anderson Horowitz, is paving the way for synthetic biology to reshape American manufacturing. This episode connects the dots between the creation of a flexible, standardized platform for synthetic biology companies and the innovative financing strategies that might just be the key to unlocking commercial-scale production. Join us to understand how Synonym embodies the pioneering spirit needed to nurture an industry that could redefine our material world. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Philippe Birker, co-founder of Climate Farmers. This company is on a mission to revolutionize agriculture by building the necessary infrastructure to scale up regenerative practices. How? By developing an ecosystem measurement system that serves as a baseline for financing the transformation to regenerative farms. Before Philippe ventured into the realm of regeneration, he spent five years dedicated to business and community development for various impact startups. But here's a fascinating tidbit about him – Philippe also holds the record in fire breathing. Curious? Well, you'll hear more about it in this episode. Let's dive into the numbers: In 2020, EU farms utilized a staggering 157 million hectares of land for agricultural production, accounting for 38% of the total land area. It's noteworthy that the majority, a whopping 94.8%, of these farms are family-owned. However, agriculture also contributes to 26% of our yearly worldwide emissions. Climate Farmers is aiming to transform every farm into a profitable and regenerative one. This episode is a must-listen if you're eager to grasp the essence of regenerative agriculture, understand why our food has lost significant nutritional benefits, and explore the necessary changes in policies, financing structures, why carbon financing is not enough, and overall perception towards farmers. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of sustainable farming and discover how Climate Farmers is paving the way for positive change. Happy listening! The following description was generated by AI :) Ever wondered if the soil beneath our feet could be a hero in the climate crisis? Philipp Birker, co-founder of Climate Farmers, joins me to reveal how regenerative agriculture offers not just hope for the planet, but also a financially sustainable future for farmers—especially the youth seeking to sow seeds of change. Together, we unravel the complexities farmers face, from economic barriers to policy labyrinths, while also celebrating Philipp's record-breaking prowess in fire-breathing, a testament to his multifaceted journey as an eco-warrior. Strap in for an eye-opening tour of farming's future, where we scrutinize our current yield-focused model that sidelines the well-being of our environment. Philipp and I dissect the transformative potential of regenerative agriculture—a method that cherishes rhythm with nature, enriching our soils, preserving precious water, and fostering a biodiversity haven. Delving into the Climate Farmers Academy, we spotlight how education and financial incentives are vital in encouraging farmers to cultivate change, emphasizing that proper agricultural policies and support are key to valuing environmental stewardship. We wrap up this enlightening conversation with a deep dive into the innovative concept of carbon credits, dissecting the evolution from a carbon-centric approach towards a holistic ecosystem regeneration system. Philipp walks us through the intricacies of compensating farmers for carbon capture in soil and looks beyond, to a future where food production nourishes both our bodies and the planet. Join us to gain a fresh perspective on how every choice we make at the dinner table or the ballot box can be a step towards a regenerative and resilient agricultural landscape. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I am speaking to Doris Hafenbradls, CTO and Managing Director of Electrochaea. Doris has enjoyed a successful career as scientist and corporate executive in the biotech and pharma industry in the US and Europe. She joined Electrochaea from Axxam, a leading provider of integrated discovery services for the life sciences industry, where she was responsible for the company's discovery services activities. Doris dedicated her doctoral research in mircobiology to the study of the microorganism archaea at the University of Regensburg. What does Electrochae produce? The company converts renewable energy (solar and wind) and the industrial waste product carbon dioxide into grid-quality synthetic Methane with the goal to replace natural gas as energy source and storage. They use Archaea - an ancient, single-celled microorganisms that survive in extreme conditions to synthesize methane. In May 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) released its roadmap to help the world get to net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. Net Zero by 2050 recommends a baseline target of 10 percent for synthetic methane in the natural gas flow by 2050. The company has been founded in 2014 by Dr. Laurens Mets, Professor at the University of Chicago, and Mich Hein. They have 3 pilot plants up and running and now raising for the next round to expand. I learned a lot in this conversation about the power to gas principle and the technology behind. This episode is something for persons who are interested in renewable energy, carbon capture and utilization and the circular economy of carbon dioxide. The following description was generated by AI :) Discover how the invisible power of microorganisms can revolutionize our energy systems as Doris Hafenbradl of Electrochaea unveils the potential of renewable synthetic methane. In an era crying out for sustainable solutions, we're joined by an expert who is turning the tables on traditional energy storage and utilization. Harnessing the ancient prowess of archaea, Electrochaea's technology is not just a beacon of innovation but a pragmatic bridge to a greener future, syncing the ebb and flow of renewable energy production with our insatiable demand. This episode is a journey through the environmental and economic impacts of a truly transformative technology, with real-world applications already taking root from Denmark to Maine. As we explore with Doris, the process of repurposing excess renewable energy into a viable, storable commodity is not merely a theoretical marvel but a practical stride towards a circular economy. Synthetic methane stands poised to redefine energy intensity and costs, proving that the green premium is a small price to pay for a sustainable and carbon-conscious future. We wrap up with a candid discussion about the hurdles and prospects within the renewable gas market. Doris guides us through the maze of regulatory requirements, the importance of subsidies, and the potential of voluntary markets, sharing Electrochaea's achievements and aspirations. Their innovative 12-megawatt project in Denmark and ongoing feasibility studies in Canada underscore the scalability of this venture. It's a conversation that leaves us optimistic about a future where synthetic methane could become the norm, providing a cleaner and renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

Today I am talking with Lara Bryant, Deputy Director of NRDC (The Nature Resource Defence Council) in USA. Lara has a background in chemistry and studied plant and Soil Science and has a master’s degree in public administration in environmental science and policy from Columbia University. NRDC is a Non-Profit organization with more than 3 million members and online activists with the expertise of some 700 scientists, lawyers, and other environmental specialists to confront the climate crisis, protect the planet's wildlife and wild places, and to ensure the rights of all people to clean air, clean water, and healthy communities. In this podcast we talk about regenerative agriculture and how policy and subsidies are driving the transition to regenerative agriculture. In this short episode, we take a look at USA farmers and what needs to change to drive the industry to be more sustainable. The following description was created automatically by AI :) Do you want to get a fresh perspective on regenerative agriculture? Then you don't want to miss my conversation with Lara Bryant, the Deputy Director of the Nature Resource Defense Council (NRDC). Lara brings to light the fascinating world of regenerative agriculture and the NRDC's mission. We explore the significance of soil health, and how the U.S. federal crop insurance program could be revamped to reward farmers who prioritize it. Imagine an agricultural world where the transition to regenerative practices is supported by policy and resources. We discuss this and more as Lara shares findings from her study with 115 U.S. farmers. We lay out the groundwork for cultivating the next generation of farmers, focusing on providing them with essential resources such as loans, health insurance, and retirement savings. We dive into the complexities of regenerative agriculture, comparing it to organic farming and discussing the regenerative organic certification. Finally, we explore the challenges of regenerative agriculture, the potential of carbon credits, and the exciting prospect of policy changes to support more farmers in this transition. Lara reflects on how her theories on agriculture have transformed over the years and gives her insights on the percentage of American farmers already practicing bio or regenerative farming. So, put on your headphones and tune in to this compelling conversation about the future of agriculture, soil health, and how you can get involved with the NRDC. You're sure to learn something new! Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I am speaking with Rose Sharifian and Ruben Brands. Rose is CTO and co-founder of CDR startup SeaO2. She is a chemical engineer and petroleum engineer by training, who is researched, for the last 5 years, the electrochemical oceanic carbon capture during her PhD at University of Delft, Netherlands. My second interview partner is Ruben Brands, CEO and co-founder of Seo2. He previously founded startups and consulted for major corporations on lean startup initiatives. Three years ago, motivated by the urgency of climate change, he was researching technological solutions and met Rose. Sea02 is a ocean-based carbon removal company with the mission to protect our planet from getting warmer and warmer, by reducing the CO₂ concentration in the ocean and indirectly in the air. They would like to capture 1 Gigaton of CO2 by 2035. In this episode, you will learn about the different Ocean-based carbon removal methods (nature and tech based), the technology of Seo02, the challenges of scaling a company on water and why ocean-based is much more efficient than direct air capture. The following description was created automatically by AI :) Can we truly outsmart climate change by harnessing the ocean's might? Get ready to infiltrate the fascinating world of ocean-based carbon removal with our guests, Rose Scharrivian and Ruben Brands, the innovative minds behind SeaO2, a company on a mission to capture a gigaton of CO2 by 2035! Together, we'll shed light on the technology that drives their venture and the hurdles they encounter as they progress towards their ambitious goal. What sets ocean-based carbon capture apart and how does it compare with direct air capture? That's what Rose and Ruben will be discussing in depth, as we explore the remarkable efficiency of ocean carbon capture. We'll delve into the role of the ocean as a carbon absorbent, the unique challenges of measuring and monitoring ocean capture, and the tantalizing possibility of achieving gigaton scale carbon removal. Furthermore, we'll probe into the environmental impact of this groundbreaking technology, weighing potential risks and discussing the careful balancing of CO2 levels. Lastly, Rose and Ruben will take us on a journey through the Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) market, its stumbling blocks, and the innovative solutions that SeaO2 is introducing. You'll hear about their hands-on experience of working with the unforgiving ocean, the pressing need for funding, and the urgency of scaling up their operations. Learn about their pilot project in the Netherlands and their unwavering determination to battle climate change with creativity and cutting-edge technology. This is an episode you won't want to miss if you're curious about how tech can help us turn the tide in the fight against global warming. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I am speaking with Stephanie Bischof, Managing Director Airfix. Stephanie worked for more than 10 years in finance for large international companies like coca-cola and svwarowski. A movie about soil health led her to move into the climate field. Since the spring of 2022, she has led a subsidiary of South Pole in the field of biomass carbon removal and storage with the goal of creating markets for negative emission technologies. Airfix is a consulting and co-developing business in the newly emerging carbon removal industry focused on Biomass Carbon Removal and Storage (in short BiCRS) in Switzerland, and Europe. Activities include investing in carbon capture infrastructure, complex value chain management and market shaping. In this episode, you will learn about the Carbon Removal and Storage Market and its challenge to scale up to an industry which needs to match the Gas & Oil Industry market. The following description was automatically created by AI :) Are you ready to unlock some of the most complex mysteries around carbon removal and storage? We've got something special for you. We had an enlightening chat with Stefanie Bischoff, the powerhouse Managing Director of Airfix. Stefanie, who evolved from a finance professional to a fierce climate change warrior, shared some astoundingly rich insights into the burgeoning carbon removal and storage industry. This conversation is an immersive journey into the world of carbon capture, scaling the industry to rival the gas and oil market, and the intricate processes of biomass carbon removal and storage. In the episode, Stefanie also talks about the complex issue of pricing carbon removal. She discusses Microsoft's pledge to buy millions of carbon credits from a Danish project and how these certification standards ensure accurate carbon removal measurements. We also explore the fascinating journey of Airfix Carbazoo, a venture striving to create a market for carbon removal and storage. Stefanie explains their funding strategy, end goals, and how they are tracking their own carbon objectives. If you've been curious about the role of finance in tackling climate change and the urgent need for negative emission technologies, this conversation is an absolute must-listen. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I am speaking with Nirav Patel, founder and CEO of Framework. He is a former engineer at Oculus VR, Apple and Facebook. Framework is founded on the philosophy that the greatest positive environmental impact can come from creating products that last longer, thus generating less waste. The first 2 products are laptops which can be customized, upgraded, repaired and upcycled by the customer itself. Founded in 2019, Framework is now available in 9 countries. In this episode, we will talk about the inherent problem of hardware producers' business model to sell more products but at the same time trying to be more sustainable. We also discuss why he would like to half the market of the electronic consumer products and why this is a good thing. The following description was automatically created by AI :) Hold onto your headphones as we take a thrilling journey into the world of sustainable technology with none other than Nirav Patel, the ingenious mind behind Framework, a company disrupting the status quo of the tech industry. This episode promises an unfiltered insight into how Framework is challenging traditional hardware business models, by offering consumers not only customizable but also upgradable, repairable, and upcyclable laptops. From dissecting the unique design of the Framework laptop to delving into how their business model is resonating with small to medium-sized businesses and enterprises, Patel leaves no stone unturned. Formerly an engineer at tech giants like Oculus VR, Apple, and Facebook, Patel's vision for a future of sustainable consumer electronics across all categories is nothing short of revolutionary. So, tune in and get inspired by how Framework is making waves in the tough PC industry climate, and understand how you, as a consumer, can contribute to the sustainability revolution. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I'm speaking with Dana Yarden, co-founder of BioBetter. Their vision is to solve one of the biggest bottlenecks in advancing cultivated meat to mass production. They have invented a new way of creating growth factors, cheaper and faster, for the cultivated meat industry. Biobetter harnesses the inherent advantages of tobacco plants, turning them into natural bioreactors. They grow in open fields, using renewable energy as a sustainable source for animal-free growth factors in other proteins. Founded in 2012 and incorporated in 2015, the company pivoted from products for farmer industry to producing growth factors for the cultivated meat industry. They employ 40 people, raise 16 million US dollars so far and are based in Israel. I had a really enjoyable conversation with Dana, not only about the future of food tech, but also how empathy and love can bring us more together on a journey to solve the climate crisis. The following description was automatically created by AI :) What if there was a way to produce meat without the environmental impact of traditional livestock farming? Dana Yarden, co-founder of BioBetter, believes there is and she’s at the forefront of this innovation. Join us as we delve into Dana's extraordinary journey in the biotech industry, from her early days working on products for farmers to now leading the charge in developing growth factors for the cultivated meat industry. Dana and her team at BioBetter are pioneering a groundbreaking solution - transforming tobacco plants into natural bioreactors that produce animal-free growth factors. You'll discover the fascinating science behind how these plants are put to work, and the impressive advantages this method has over other production methods. What's more, Dana opens up about the journey to get approval from the FDA and the challenges and triumphs they've faced along the way. But the innovation doesn't stop there - BioBetter's growth factors are being grown in the ground, not in a greenhouse. This shift in practice could not only drastically reduce the cost of growth factors but also contribute significantly to the sustainability of cultivated meat production. Dana also shares valuable insights on the importance of a strong network in the biotech industry and her passion for the progress of the food industry. So buckle up for a dive into a future where plants and proteins could revolutionize the way we produce and consume meat. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

On May 24, 2023, Friederike von Waldenfels, CEO of Forestrock and Founder of SustainNOW, spoke at the SCORE! – Swiss Conference for Retail and E-Commerce at StageOne in Zurich-Oerlikon. In her keynote, she talks about "Green Retail - From Prejudice to Successful Opportunities." This special episode has been created to showcase the fantastic keynote talk. The talk was done in German. To find the full video, with English subtitles, check out our website at SustainNOW.ch, or follow the YouTube link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1C_BX3JS1g. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In todays episode, I am speaking with Milo Stössel, co-founder and CEO of the Swiss transportation startup quickpac. Their vision is to fulfill the transition of ecommerce to be more sustainable and seamless. Quickpac is the only one in Switzerland with a 100% electric vehicle fleet for last mile delivery. Founded in 2019, quickpac quickly scaled up to 6 delivery hubs, 300 vehicles and above 300 employees. At SwissCommerce, my former company, we were one of the first customers to use their services. In this episode, we will talk about the challenges to create a sustainable fleet, scaling up and how to balance shopping convenience with sustainability. The following description was automatically created by AI :) Join me as we journey through the captivating story of Milo Stössel, the co-founder and CEO of Quickpac. Quickpac is revolutionizing the e-commerce delivery landscape by prioritizing sustainability without compromising customer convenience. Milo reveals the trials and tribulations they encountered while building a 100% electric vehicle fleet and how they surmounted these challenges to become a leader in their industry. Listen in as Milo discusses the pivotal role of multi-carrier availability in shaping the future of e-commerce. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Quickpac, with its network of 60 depots and two daily delivery routes, ensures efficiency and flexibility in its operations. Discover the innovative strategies, such as dynamic route planning and colored labels, that this savvy startup employs to keep ahead of the curve while reducing CO2 emissions in last-mile delivery. Lastly, Milo delves into the complexities and costs associated with transitioning to electric trucks. Hear firsthand about Quickpac's initiatives to minimize carbon footprint and why sustainability is paramount in the transportation and logistics sectors. Don't miss out on Milo's advice for others navigating the capex-intensive sustainability business landscape, his thoughts on the climate crisis, and his steadfast belief that it can be resolved. Plug into this enlightening conversation and stay inspired! Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In todays episode, I am speaking with Ted-Li, co-founder of Oaesense. Oasense developed a self-powered smart showerhead that helps people conserve up to 60% of water and energy by switching off automatically when you step away. Ted-Li has an engineering background and worked in different sensor focused companies as well at Apple. He joined as co-founder in 2019. This will be our first product firechat. In these firechats we will feature products which are helping consumers or businesses to live more sustainable already today. The following description was automatically created by ai :) What if you could conserve up to 60% of water and energy, simply by changing your showerhead? We bring you an enlightening chat with Ted Li, co-founder of Oasense, who walks us through his journey in helping develop a smart shower head that's not only self-powered but also smart enough to switch off when you're not under it. Discover how Ted's innovative product emerged amid California’s drought crisis, revolutionizing the concept of bathing and transforming it into an experience of tranquility and relaxation, while prioritizing sustainability. Ted doesn't stop at creating an innovative product; his vision extends to sustainability and enhancing user experience in water conservation. Tune in as we unpack the distinct advantages of Oasense's unique turbine technology and how it outshines other products in the market. You'll also get a sneak peek into the future plans for Oasense, including their ideas for a sensor kitchen faucet. If you're keen to learn about the strides Oasense is making in the world of sustainability and how their smart shower head could redefine your daily routine, you can't afford to miss this episode. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I am speaking with Tim Schumacher. Tim is a German Investor and Entrepreneur with a long-term focus on Impact and Climate. He co-founded and led the publicly traded Sedo.com as CEO for ten years. Since 2012, he has founded and invested in multiple start-ups like Eyeo (makers of Adblock Plus), SaaS.group, Zolar, CarbonCloud, Pachama and Ecosia. Tim Schumacher also very recently co-founded the World Fund which is a 350 Millionen EUR VC fund focusing on Climate Startups who have the potential to save 100 Mio Co2. In this episode, you will learn about Tim’s journey from an entrepreneur to an investor, climate activism as a teenager and as well his Top 3 bets in the Climate Tech sector. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In today's episode, I am speaking with Sabine Stuiver, co-founder and CMO of Hydraloop. Their mission is to empower people and organizations to save water and energy whilst retaining the comfort of living. Their product is a circular water system for family and multi-family homes. So you can use the shower water to flush your toilet or to water your garden and save up to 45% of freshwater. Sabine is a water conservation expert and member of the Policy Advisory Committee at Water Europe in Brussels and was awarded the European Union's EU-TOP50 Award for a ‘Female Entrepreneur with a Sustainable Innovation’ in 2020. This episode is packed with facts and aha moments about water scarcity and our water usage in general. You will learn about why Europe is already facing a water crisis, why water will get more expensive, and why we currently do not recycle drinking water efficiently. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In todays episode, I am speaking with Jonas Warmstad, founder and CMO of Drupps. Their vision is to recycle industrial evaporated wastewater into drinking water while recycling a lot of heat at the same time. Jonas says about himself that he is an engineer with too little patience to be an engineer. He wants to solve sustainability problems and the fastest way to do so, is sometimes to combine and re-purpose old methods and technologies. He has started two companies so far in sustainable water and air treatment with a combined VC Funding of 12m USD. I really enjoyed this episode because it also shows that entrepreneurship is to be able to pivot, to test and not to give up. You will learn about why it is important to recycle wastewater, how evaporated water is a source for energy and has a direct impact on CO2. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In todays episode, I am speaking with Lynsey, CFO of the US startup Pairwise. Their mission is to build a healthier world through better fruits and vegetables by using CRISPR as technology. Prior to joining Pairwise in 2020, Lynsey served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer at Calysta, a biotechnology company developing alternative protein ingredients. She also spent 16 years with Goldman Sachs, including spending the greater part of a decade specializing in global natural resources investment banking. We are speaking about CRISPR, the perception of genome edited food and it’s potential for improving yields and productivity for farmers as well as better taste, nutrition and convenience for consumers. You will learn about the key scaling factors for a food tech company and the potential of using CRISPR in accelerating the healthy food transition and reducing the climate impact of food production. More about pairwise: Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

Today, we're joined by Till Quack, the visionary founder of Zerofy, a company with a mission to simplify a zero-carbon life for households. Till is a Swiss entrepreneur and product builder who uses his expertise in computer vision to help make a positive impact on the world. In this episode, we delve into the world of personal carbon tracking and its significance in reducing emissions. You'll hear about Till's personal journey to the climate tech sector and learn about the steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint. Join us as we discuss the role of technology in helping us achieve a sustainable future, and find out how ChatGPT could play a part. Get ready to be inspired and informed!" PS: this intro was written by ChatGPT - what do you think about it? Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In todays episode, I am speaking with Isabella, Founder and CEO of Bosque Foods. Their mission is to create the best tasting and minimally processed, whole-cut meat and fish alternatives grown naturally from fungal mycelium. Isabella has an academic background in sustainability and agriculture. She has spent her career building startups in the United States, Europe, and Asia. She has a proven track record in leading tech startups to scale internationally, most recently for ag-tech startup Infarm. She brings her passion for sustainability, decade-long experience in fermentation, and experience in business management and strategy to lead Bosque Foods as CEO. We are speaking about the ancient fermentation process, originally used for wine and beer and its renaissance in the food-tech industry, why fungi can be the hidden champion in creating clean and less processed meat alternatives. You will also learn about the chances and obstacles in scaling a mycelium food-tech business in the current macroeconomic climate. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

In todays episode, I am speaking with May Yap, co-founder and CEO of Lithos Carbon. The team's mission is to accelerate mineral weathering at the gigaton scale. They are using volcanic stone basalt to speed up the Earth’s naturally carbon capture process in the soil and ocean. Farmers are spraying individual adapted basalt on their farmland to capture carbon in the soil while improving their yield at the same time. This complex method is very difficult to measure but is seen as one of the most promising technologies to capture CO2 out of the atmosphere. Mary studied plant biology at The University of Chicago and geology and planetary sciences at Yale University, where she conducted award-winning scientific and urban research on the climate crisis. Mary started her journey in entrepreneurship at the age of 18 and spent 6+ years building early-stage startups before devoting her life to climate solutions. We are speaking about her passion for stones and geology, why enhanced weathering is so complex to measure but also has a great opportunity to fight the climate crisis. You will learn about the process, the risks and chances for investors and farmers. In this episode we are addressing the following questions: 2:073:004:388:489:5412:3114:0518:3821:5923:34Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch Ideas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch