Straight Talking Sustainability

In this practical and empowering final episode of the 52 Simple Sustainability Hacks series, host Emma Burlow delivers the last actionable tips (numbers 40 to 52) that prove sustainable living doesn't have to cost money or consume your life. Recording in beautiful autumn while resisting the urge to tidy her garden, Emma wraps up this comprehensive series with hard-hitting advice that ranges from decluttering your "drawer of doom" to moving your pension out of fossil fuels.This episode tackles the sustainability actions that many people overlook but have an outsized impact. Emma challenges listeners to confront the 1.6 million tonnes of e-waste the UK generates annually, with only 20% going through proper recycling channels. She reveals that the average UK household hoards about 25 electronic devices containing precious metals like gold, palladium, and silver that should be recovered, not stockpiled.The conversation shifts to indoor air quality, exposing how our obsession with fragranced cleaning products creates pollution levels two to five times worse than outdoor air. Emma advocates for a chemical detox, starting with eliminating products labelled with the vague term "fragrance" (usually a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals with hazard warnings).From practical tips about buying products in bulk to reduce packaging waste to supporting local environmental action groups, Emma demonstrates how small habit changes create meaningful impact. She tackles the often-avoided topic of reducing meat consumption with realistic approaches like the "half and half" method (mixing mince with plant-based alternatives) and emphasizes that if you do eat meat, eliminating meat waste becomes non-negotiable.The episode culminates with hack number 52, which Emma deliberately saved for last because of its massive impact. In this sustainable living and practical action episode, you'll discover:Why 1.6 million tonnes of UK e-waste contains recoverable gold, palladium, and silver sitting in drawersHow indoor air pollution from cleaning products can be five times worse than outdoor airThe "half and half" method for reducing meat consumption without family rebellionWhy leaving your garden messy in autumn is the best thing you can do for wildlifeHow buying products in bulk saves money while reducing packaging waste dramaticallyWhy moving your pension has 100 times more climate impact than most personal actionsThe hidden energy savings of steel-canned food versus refrigerated alternativesHow vintage shopping through platforms like Vinted can save hundreds of pounds annuallyKey Practical Sustainability Moments:(02:29) The e-waste crisis: "About 20% of all electric devices in the UK are hoarded or just stored up... 1.6 million tonnes of it ends up as waste every year... only about 20% of it actually goes through the proper channels."(04:54) Indoor air pollution reality: "The air pollution inside can often be two to five times as polluted as outside... just avoid things with fragrance in, you know the term fragrance which is usually just a cocktail of chemicals."(07:18) The meat waste hierarchy: "If you're going to eat those things, absolutely go for it, but just be really specific and careful and you cannot waste those items. They are very, very precious."(08:24) Reuse over recycling: "I want you to try to make this mental shift between recycling and reuse... Sustainability does not have to be expensive. This is one of my big mantras."(12:00) Community action matters: "Bristol Climate and Nature Partnerships Community Climate and Nature Project... has just been awarded 1.75 million pounds... They are a partnership of 17 community...

In this inspiring episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow sits down with Nicola Jones, a 26-year veteran of the steel industry and a sustainability professional at Tata Steel UK. From starting as a business apprentice in 1999 when the company was British Steel, to now spearheading sustainability initiatives during one of the industry's most dramatic transformations, Nicola offers unique insights into how heavy industry is actually leading the charge on decarbonization.Nicola reveals the staggering scale of Tata Steel UK's £1.25 billion investment in electric arc furnace technology, which will deliver an immediate 90% reduction in carbon emissions when it comes online at the end of 2027. Unlike other industries that can make incremental changes, steel's transition represents a dramatic overnight transformation that will secure over 5,000 jobs while positioning the UK as a leader in low-carbon steel production.The conversation dismantles common misconceptions about heavy industry's resistance to climate action, revealing how customer demand for Scope 3 emissions reductions is driving rapid change. With Tata Group committing to net zero by 2045 (five years ahead of the UK's 2050 target), Nicola demonstrates how global companies are moving faster than national policies.From a packaging perspective, Nicola shares compelling insights about steel's circular advantages, including 86% recycling rates in the UK, permanent material properties that allow endless recycling without degradation, and lifecycle benefits that extend from six-week packaging cycles to decades for construction applications. She addresses the challenge of weight-based regulations while highlighting steel's competitive advantages in recyclability infrastructure and global end markets.The episode also explores the evolution of women in heavy industry, from Nicola's early experiences as a novelty on the shop floor (complete with crane sirens announcing her arrival) to today's focus on properly fitting PPE and attracting diverse talent to drive the industry's sustainable future.This conversation provides essential context for sustainability professionals working with industrial clients, procurement teams evaluating packaging materials, and anyone seeking evidence that the net zero transition is not a future aspiration but a current reality in critical industries.In this steel industry and sustainable packaging episode, you'll discover:How the steel industry's 90% carbon reduction will happen overnight, not gradually like other sectorsWhy Tata Steel UK's £1.25 billion investment secures 5,000 jobs while driving decarbonizationThe competitive advantages steel maintains through 86% recycling rates and permanent material propertiesHow electric arc furnace technology will use predominantly UK scrap steel, creating true circularityWhy steel packaging offers energy savings through ambient storage versus refrigerated alternativesThe hidden technical complexity behind simple food cans and their role as the original ready mealsHow customer Scope 3 emissions targets are driving faster industrial transformation than regulationCareer opportunities in sustainability within traditional heavy industriesKey Industrial Transformation Insights:(05:00) The dramatic transformation: "Unlike other industries that can make small steps every year... with the steel industry, it's actually quite dramatic... when we switch on the electric arc furnaces, the emissions reduction will be immediate and that step change will happen overnight."(05:40) The scale of change: "There's a 90% reduction... It is huge. It is huge... there aren't that many steel industries in the UK. And one of the...

In this ground-breaking episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow sits down with Catherine Conway, the visionary founder of the UK's first modern zero-waste store and current CEO of Go Unpackaged. With over 20 years of experience pioneering reusable packaging solutions, Catherine has evolved from running a small unpackaged shop to leading industry-transforming research that could save the UK £136 million annually in packaging waste costs.Catherine started Unpackaged in 2006, long before sustainability became mainstream, creating the template for what we now know as zero waste retail. Today, she leads Go Unpackaged alongside business partners Helen and Rob, working directly with major retailers like Aldi and Ocado to develop scalable reuse systems that challenge the fundamental assumptions of our throwaway economy.This episode dives deep into the complex world of packaging policy, revealing why we're still putting billions of single-use items on the market despite decades of environmental awareness. Catherine breaks down the structural forces that have prevented large-scale change, from misaligned financial incentives to business models built on selling units as fast as possible (Fast Moving Consumer Goods literally has "fast" and "consumer" in the name).The conversation centres around Catherine's ground-breaking infrastructure modelling work for DEFRA's Circular Economy Task Force, which analysed what it would take to achieve 30% reuse in UK grocery retail. Using their sophisticated end-to-end supply chain modelling tool, UnPack Analytics, they discovered that four reuse scenarios actually run cheaper than single-use systems, with online delivery returns being the most cost-effective option.Catherine reveals the game-changing impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which create a 94% reduction in packaging taxes for reusable items compared to single-use alternatives. This policy framework finally aligns financial incentives with environmental benefits, making the business case for reuse undeniable.Through candid discussion of the Refill Coalition project (funded by Innovate UK), Catherine shares hard-won insights about what actually works in reusable packaging systems, why collaboration beats competition, and how the logistics industry holds keys to optimizing circular solutions that most sustainability professionals never consider.In this circular economy and plastic packaging episode, you'll discover:Why 20 years of sustainability awareness haven't solved our packaging problem and what's finally changingThe four reuse scenarios that cost less than single-use packaging systems (with evidence to prove it)How Extended Producer Responsibility regulations create 94% cost savings for reusable packagingWhy online delivery returns are more cost-effective than in-store collection for reuse systemsThe hidden costs of single-use packaging that have been socialized to taxpayers for decadesHow proper supply chain modeling reveals 95% reductions in carbon emissions and material useWhy successful pilots often fail to scale and what's needed to move beyond "more pilots than Heathrow"The 13,000 new jobs that could be created through a 30% reuse transition in the UKKey Circular Economy and Packaging Insights:(03:25) The hard reality check: "I'm going to say I don't think we're winning yet and that's quite a thing to say having done it for 20 years... we are still putting billions of items of single use packaging on the market every year."(05:09) The consensus myth: "I think for many years, we didn't have a consensus that packaging is a problem. I think across a lot of global brands and retailers, maybe we also don't have a consensus that...

In this tactical and transformative solo episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow delivers a game-changing challenge that could revolutionize how you approach sustainability conversations at work. If you've ever felt like you're on the back foot when discussing environmental initiatives, constantly defending your position with facts and evidence, this episode offers a radically different approach.Emma identifies the five "red flag words" that instantly change the tone of any business conversation, bringing unwanted baggage and triggering defensive responses from colleagues. These words (sustainability, net zero, climate, circularity, and biodiversity) often cause listeners to mentally check out, shut down discussions, or adopt a "let's humour them" attitude that kills productive dialogue.The episode provides specific word-swapping strategies for different departments. When talking to commercial teams about climate risks, use words like "cost," "planning," "contingency," and "resilience." For sales and procurement discussions, focus on "customer pressure" and "tendering requirements." With operations teams, return to proven concepts like "lean," "process improvements," and "efficiency."This isn't about hiding your environmental agenda; it's about making sustainability relevant by connecting it directly to existing business pain points and speaking the language your audience already understands and values.In this communication strategy episode, you'll discover:The five red flag words that instantly derail sustainability conversations in business settingsWhy defending sustainability with more facts and evidence actually makes resistance strongerHow to identify and speak each department's native business language for maximum impactThe "Trojan mouse" approach to achieving environmental outcomes without triggering resistanceSpecific word substitutions for commercial, sales, procurement, and operations teamsWhy making sustainability "relevant" is more powerful than making it "important"How to transform from being seen as "the ESG person" to becoming a valuable problem-solverKey Communication Strategy Moments:(01:41) The red flag revelation: "So sustainability, net zero, climate, circularity, and biodiversity. So we're going to call them our red flag words. So it's like when you say one of those words, you've suddenly changed the tone of the conversation, right? You've brought with you a bit of baggage."(02:22) The three defensive reactions: "That perception, in my experience, can go a couple of ways. It can go, oh, let's just humour her and get out of here as quick as possible. It can go, let's shut this down because we haven't got time for this. Or it can go, oh, not this again."(04:45) Speaking their language: "So you're going to need to talk about risk, cost, planning, contingency, and resilience... So switch out your words... Because remember we talk about listening first to their language and then playing their language back."(06:35) Stop pushing: "Let's stop pushing sustainability. We don't have to push it. It is there anyway. If you're having to push it, it sort of shows, doesn't it?"(07:00) The Trojan mouse concept: "You are having a conversation on their level using their language. You're not pushing or convincing or defending sustainability or trying to prove it or trying to justify it."Connect with EmmaWebsiteEmaila...

In this deeply personal and transformative episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow sits down with Tamsin Acheson, a life coach and leadership development expert, to tackle one of the most uncomfortable questions facing experienced professionals: Why is it so hard to claim our expertise, even after decades in our field?Emma opens up about her own struggles with the dreaded elevator pitch and self-promotion, sharing the visceral discomfort she feels when trying to articulate her value after 30 years in sustainability. What starts as a conversation about professional presentation quickly evolves into a fascinating exploration of how we define expertise in the modern world.Tamsin brings her unique perspective as someone who works with mid-life high achievers navigating career transitions and helps leaders balance people, planet, and profit in their organizations. Through their candid dialogue, she reveals how our outdated notions of expertise (rooted in academic credentials and institutional validation) are holding us back in a world where applied knowledge and lived experience now carry more weight than ever.This episode challenges the fundamental assumptions about what makes someone an expert, exploring how the digital age has shifted the definition from external validation to practical application. Emma and Tamsin dive deep into the psychological barriers that prevent accomplished professionals from stepping into their authority, from childhood conditioning to the fear of appearing arrogant.In this professional development and mindset episode, you'll discover:Why the traditional academic model of expertise is becoming obsolete in the modern economyHow to differentiate between real expertise and borrowed authority in an AI-augmented worldThe three psychological barriers that prevent experts from claiming their authority confidentlyWhy the "fake it till you make it" culture makes genuine experts more hesitant to self-promoteHow childhood conditioning around modesty creates professional limitations decades laterThe difference between expertise (inward-facing knowledge) and authority (outward-facing credibility)Practical strategies for reframing self-promotion as service to othersKey Professional Development Moments:(06:55) The elevator pitch trap: "Are you sure that's what an elevator pitch is for? Are we really supposed to get our entire experience, life history, and the worth we can create for other people into an elevator pitch that is less than 60 seconds?"(11:03) Old world thinking vs. new reality: "The traditional old world thinking in terms of the word expert... being that more academic model or that more guild or trade skill mastery... I was brought up with the model that an expert is externally validated."(15:44) The modern expert redefined: "The modern view of an expert is... essentially an expert is now the person who knows most in a room of people who know less... it's applied over the theoretical, which is what you just said."(27:23) Reframing expertise as service: "Who loses out when you don't allow yourself to be seen as the expert that you are? So what are you subtracting from the world?... Maybe we need to look at claiming expertise, not as an act of self-promotion, but as an act of service."(32:51) The wisdom paradox: "The more you know, the more you see the gaps in your knowledge... you move beyond black and white thinking, and you start to see all of the gray areas. Now, how can I position myself as an expert if I haven't got the answers to the gray areas? Well, you're an expert because you can see the gray areas."(41:27) The AI leveling field: "Everyone's...

In this thought-provoking solo episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow returns from her travels to Oslo, Norway, with some uncomfortable truths about sustainability assumptions that might just change how you view the climate conversation forever.Fresh from a four-day trip to one of the world's most sustainable cities, Emma peels back the glossy green exterior of Norway's environmental success story to reveal a startling foundation: oil money. With 100% renewable electricity, the world's highest per capita EV fleet, and pristine public infrastructure, Norway appears to be the ultimate sustainability success story...until you dig into the $1.8 trillion sovereign wealth fund largely built on fossil fuel extraction.This episode challenges two dangerous assumptions that are paralysing sustainability progress: That you need wealth to be sustainable, and That some countries are inherently "good" while others are "bad." Through candid observations and historical context, Emma dismantles the myths that prevent real action and offers a refreshing perspective on moving forward without the burden of comparison.Drawing parallels between Norway's oil wealth and the UK's coal-powered industrial revolution, this episode reveals why judgmental thinking about sustainability credentials (whether for countries or companies) creates barriers rather than solutions. In this sustainability reality-check episode, you'll discover:Why Norway's green credentials are built on the same fossil fuel foundation critics condemn in other nationsHow wealth-based sustainability assumptions create false barriers for businesses and countriesThe historical context that reveals all developed nations built their prosperity on fossil fuelsWhy comparing yourself to sustainability "icons" prevents progress rather than inspiring itHow to start meaningful climate action from your current position without waiting for perfect conditionsThe danger of perpetuating "good country/bad country" narratives in climate discussionsKey Challenging Sustainability Moments:(01:43) Emma observes Oslo's impressive infrastructure: "For every road, there is a pedestrian crossing... pretty much every car you see is an EV."(02:23) The wealth-sustainability assumption: "One of them is that you can only really be sustainable if you're wealthy... so it's always low down your list of priorities until you're absolutely sloshing around with money."(05:33) The oil revelation: "So it turns out...Norway found loads of oil and gas, oil predominantly...in the sixties. That's where the money came from."(06:26) The uncomfortable truth: "Norway is held up as a sustainable country... But the way they've reached that point, the evolution that they've been on, has been at the expense, arguably, of the climate."(08:30) Historical context: "Our wealth in the UK was based on coal... in 1922, the UK was the world's largest coal exporter and producer. That's only a hundred years ago."(10:25) The action imperative: "If you have recognized climate change in your organization as a crisis or an emergency, is it better to spend five years talking about why you can't do it because you're not Norway... Or would it be better just to say, we recognize we've got a crisis?"(12:30) The hypocrisy challenge: "To criticize those countries who are now doing exactly that... The economic need is exactly the same. The economic desire is the same. To criticize those countries or indeed companies I think is just naïve."Connect with Emma

In this transformative episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow interviews Virginia Cinquemani, a sustainability communication expert, coach, and author who specialises in helping sustainability leaders engage audiences and communicate their message powerfully.Virginia brings a unique background combining architecture, sustainable building expertise, and coaching to help sustainability professionals overcome the barriers that prevent sustainability from becoming mainstream. As the author of "The Good Communicator: How to Make Sustainability Irresistible," she works with sustainability leaders who know what needs to be done but struggle to convince and engage their audiences.This enlightening conversation explores the evolution of sustainability from compliance-focused technical work to the current communication age, where success depends on mindset shifts, relationship building, and strategic engagement rather than just technical expertise.Virginia shares her proven methodology for transforming sustainability from a "nice-to-have" into something irresistible by understanding audience needs and wants, building trust-based relationships, and moving away from the confrontational "eco-warrior" mindset that often creates resistance.In this sustainability communication podcast episode, you'll discover:How to shift from being a "professional rememberer" to truly understanding client problems and needsWhy sustainability leaders must reset their nervous systems and manage their energy before engaging othersThe power of seeing audiences as co-creators rather than opponents in sustainability initiativesStrategic approaches to building relationships with decision-makers before formal presentationsHow to make sustainability "irresistible" by connecting it to real business needs and personal valuesEssential mindset shifts that prevent burnout while maintaining impact in sustainability rolesWhy asking "How can I help you?" is more powerful than prescriptive sustainability solutionsKey Sustainability Communication Highlights:(08:28) "Health and safety wasn't a thing really, right? A few decades ago... And now people do it. And there is no question... That's what I want sustainability to become, the norm. And then when it's not done sustainably, people go and say, oh my God, that this is shameful."(14:19) "It's the simple question, right? What are your problems? I'm going to sell you the solution that addressed your problems. I'm not going to sell you, you know, if you want oranges, I'm not going to sell you fish because that's not what you want right now."(18:31) "The first meeting when you... shouldn't speak. You should just shut up, ask the question and close your mouth because the first meetings are always to find out about your audience."(24:36) "We take all of the sustainability work as fighters, you know, we are the eco warriors. But it's very consuming, isn't it?... There is a lot of fighting language in the way, but unfortunately language is very important."(33:29) "How can I help you? Which is a fundamental question... Because we come across as sustainability professionals sometimes as you need to do this, we are like the preachers. Well, actually, when we say, look, I know that you have your... monetary targets... How can I help you with the work that I do to reach your targets?"(38:53) "You need to be curious. Just think about them, not as a land to be conquered, but as a... an exploration... try and help them to get where they want to get, because they will be more inclined to listen to you if you do that."Connect with Virginiaa...

In this reflective solo episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow shares powerful insights from her holiday experiences that reveal how climate change and sustainability conversations are happening everywhere; we just need to know how to recognise and join them.Fresh from a transformative trip to Costa Rica, Emma challenges the common belief that sustainability professionals are fighting an uphill battle to get people to care about climate change. Emma's experiences on holiday demonstrate that climate conversations are simmering just below the surface in everyday interactions with business owners, lodge operators, and even weather-delayed flights.This thought-provoking episode explores why sustainability feels like such a challenge when climate impacts are omnipresent in our daily lives. Emma reveals how the perception that we're "challengers" fighting against indifferent audiences is actually counterproductive and plays into the hands of those who don't want climate action.Emma introduces a new approach to sustainability engagement: instead of being the "challenger" who brings up difficult topics, become the curious connector who meets people where they are and discovers what they already care about. Emma shares practical strategies for finding the sustainability connections that already exist in people's lives without using trigger words or creating confrontation.In this sustainability engagement podcast episode, you'll discover:Real-world evidence that climate change conversations are happening naturally across different sectors and situationsWhy the "challenger" mindset in sustainability communication is exhausting and counterproductiveHow to avoid trigger words like "climate change" while still having meaningful environmental conversationsThe power of curiosity over confrontation when engaging people on sustainability topicsWhy asking "what do you care about?" opens doors that technical sustainability arguments can'tHow to recognise that people already care about climate impacts, they just might not call it thatPractical strategies for joining existing sustainability conversations rather than starting battlesKey Sustainability Engagement Highlights:(04:51) Emma shares multiple examples from Costa Rica where locals, unprompted, brought up climate impacts on their businesses and operations(07:13) "The chap who runs the business said that the season had been cut short by changes in the rainy season... And he said, It's because of climate change. The climate is really affecting our business. Those were his words."(11:22) "We have created a challenge... We're the challengers. We are fighting climate change... And I don't think that's actually true. I think it's absolute nonsense... It plays into the hands of those people who don't want us to act on this."(13:48) "It is not one size fits all... they might have more clout, they might have more influence, they might have more drive, they might have more time, they might have anything frankly that we need to solve this."(15:12) "Ask people what they care about... What are they involved in? Outside of work? What's their holiday like?... And you will immediately get to something within one layer that relies on a stable climate and a healthy society."(16:43) "Avoid terms like climate or global warming in case, just in case, they're a trigger... You might talk about changing weather, like, how extreme and how unusual. You might talk about the intensity of storms. People care about this stuff."(17:38) "Being kind first and being curious is the whole thing about meeting people where they are. You have to...

In this empowering episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow interviews Sharon Oranekwu, an award-winning ESG consultant and sustainability leadership expert, for the third instalment of the "Speak Up Woman" series. Sharon specializes in ESG reporting, CSRD compliance, corporate sustainability strategy, and environmental governance, helping companies across Europe navigate complex sustainability regulations and reporting requirements.This in-depth conversation covers women in sustainability careers, ESG implementation strategies, and sustainable business practices. Sharon shares her proven problem-solving methodology for corporate environmental challenges and explains why women leaders are driving innovation in the ESG and corporate sustainability space. The discussion explores sustainability career development, climate action in business, and how female leadership brings strategic thinking and data-driven approaches to environmental governance and corporate responsibility.In this sustainability leadership podcast episode, you'll discover:Essential problem-solving strategies for ESG professionals and sustainability consultantsHow to build confidence and competence in corporate sustainability and environmental careersFemale leadership approaches that drive successful ESG implementation and climate actionWhy ESG frameworks align with business values despite political resistance to sustainability initiativesData-driven strategies for presenting environmental governance solutions to corporate boardsPreventing sustainability professional burnout while maintaining environmental impactThe evolution from CSR to ESG to future sustainability frameworks and corporate responsibility modelsKey Sustainability and ESG Highlights:(05:45) "I got here by problem-solving. That's the biggest, most important thing to me... Every business that starts, they're essentially saying, hey, there's a problem out there and we think we can give it a go."(08:44) "A massive part of my confidence comes from competence... Competence is the ability to keep going and keep asking questions. That's how you know you're competent when you haven't let the space beat you." (29:21) "I show up to the boardroom with data. That's what I show up with... Because as much as our field is known for passion, we're also known for data."(34:45) "If someone was to change the branding let them so long as we still do the work... Call it whatever you want. We're going to keep doing the work because the work matters."(42:16) The "calm down, woman!" Pub incident that inspired Emma's "Speak Up Woman" sustainability leadership seriesConnect with SharonSharon's LinkedInSharon's EmailEmboldenedCorp N' FemmeConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emma

In this thought-provoking episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow sits down with climate comedian Stuart Goldsmith to explore the unexpected intersection of humour and environmental action. Stuart, who has been performing comedy for 20 years and moved into climate comedy four years ago, shares his unique journey from traditional stand-up to addressing the climate crisis on stage, including performing at venues like the Apollo and major sustainability conferences. This conversation reveals how comedy can serve as a powerful tool for corporate sustainability engagement and behavioural change.The discussion delves deep into the psychology of climate communication, exploring why traditional data-driven approaches often fail to inspire action and how humour can break through resistance and create meaningful connections. They explore the concept of "winning the argument" versus genuine dialogue, the importance of addressing your own vulnerabilities upfront, and how comedy can serve as a "zip file" for complex climate information.In this episode, you'll discover:How comedy serves as a "zip file" for complex climate information that audiences can unzip and ownWhy naming your vulnerabilities upfront disarms audience resistance and creates a connectionThe class dynamics that have made climate action feel exclusive, and how to break them downStuart's "win the argument" approach to overcoming presentation anxiety and memory challengesWhy helping climate professionals is as valuable as trying to solve the crisis yourselfHow to identify and address the "unspoken things" that everyone's thinking but afraid to sayThe power of strategic self-deprecation in climate communicationHighlights:09:18 – "I want to write a brilliant joke about the collapse of the AMOC so that more people know and understand it. So I have this confluence of reasons that really excite me about wanting to learn more and romp around in it and write more."13:04 – "When you go to the pub and you chat to your mate about why Christopher Nolan's Inception is the best film in the world, for example, you haven't prepped an argument beforehand. You just passionately feel some things and know some things."21:47 – "I don't have to solve the climate crisis. I can help people who are trying to solve the climate crisis. And that counts."28:58 – "It's not my job to convince you, there's no cult and this isn't a recruitment drive."45:35 – "Work out what is the unspoken thing. What's the thing that you're scared to say in the room that you'd only say to a sustainability professional friend and work out how to say that."Connect with Stuartwww.stuartgoldsmith.comStuart Goldsmith (@stuartgoldsmithcomedy) • Instagram photos and videosStuart Goldsmith - YouTubeConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emmaa...

In this empowering solo episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, host Emma Burlow tackles a challenge familiar to many sustainability professionals: feeling stuck.Drawing on years of experience, Emma offers a compassionate but practical framework for getting unstuck, starting with self-awareness, small wins, and intentional discomfort.This is not about fixing everything overnight. It’s about building momentum, one micro-step at a time, and creating a safe space to reflect, be honest, and act, even when the big picture feels too heavy.If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I doing enough?” or “Where do I even begin?”, this episode is your invitation to stop spiraling and start experimenting, with courage, clarity, and community.In this episode, you'll discover:Why starting small is the most powerful way to get unstuckHow internal blockers, not lack of knowledge, keep us frozenThe trap of perfectionism and the fear of judgmentA simple, 3-step personal framework to move forwardWhy micro discomfort leads to macro changeHighlights:02:00 – Why the sustainability community needs self-reflection more than judgment05:00 – “Start with micro wins.” Emma breaks down her 3-part unsticking method08:00 – Reframe fear: Can’t vs. won’t vs. don’t want to11:00 – You don’t need a big idea, just a small move13:00 – Emma: “Get out of your comfort zone in a micro way.”Mia Mottley PM Barbados - Gordian KnotSpeech: Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados at the Opening of the #COP26 World Leaders SummitLiz Gadd LinkedIn PostConnect with Emma:WebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emmahttps://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20min

In this episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, Emma sits down with Gareth Kane, sustainability author and creator of the “Green Jujitsu” engagement model, for a wide-ranging conversation that challenges long-held assumptions about how we drive environmental action inside organizations.From the pitfalls of PowerPoint preaching to the psychology behind real behaviour change, Gareth shares decades of insight into what actually works when trying to get colleagues, clients, and even sceptics on board. Rather than pushing harder, Green Jujitsu is about aligning with what motivates your audience, even if it means stepping far outside your own communication comfort zone.Emma and Gareth cover a lot of ground in this rich, fast-paced interview, including:Why the classic "green team" model often failsThe growing influence of psychology in climate workWhy data doesn’t always persuade, and what to use insteadHow internal blockers aren’t always villains; sometimes, they’re mirrorsThis episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to spark sustainable change in complex environments, especially those feeling stuck, burned out, or unheard. As Gareth reminds us: it’s not about what you know, it’s about what they believe.Highlights:01:46 — What is Green Jujitsu?06:33 — Stop selling sustainability like a moral crusade13:18 — Why PowerPoint doesn't work (and what does)20:04 — The silent art of listening and waiting27:51 — Engagement is shifting: from compliance to emotion35:10 — Employee motivation is now a sustainability driver39:08 — The ultimate takeaway: humility over expertiseConnect with Gareth: Gareth Kane | LinkedInBooks by Gareth Sustainability Resources - Terra InfirmaNet Zero Business Podcast:https://shows.acast.com/655cb69d415230001259567cConnect with Emma:WebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emmahttps://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20min

In this powerful solo episode of Straight Talking Sustainability, Emma delves into the profound difference between passion and commitment in the world of sustainability.We've all been called "passionate" about our work, but is that enough? Emma makes a compelling case that true, lasting impact comes not from fleeting enthusiasm, but from deep, unwavering commitment, especially when the outcomes are unknown.Inspired by Solitaire Townsend’s recent reflections and personal conversations with leaders like Phil Korbel of the Carbon Literacy Project, Emma explores:Why being called "passionate" can feel reductiveThe emotional weight of working in sustainability without certaintyWhat true commitment looks like and how it liberates youThe “sea of apathy” and how to bridge the gap between interest and actionPractical questions to ask yourself: Am I committed? What’s stopping me?Whether you're new to the field or years into your sustainability journey, this episode is a call to check in, dig deep, and claim your place in the movement—not just as a participant, but as someone fully committed.Highlights:01:14 Are you committed?05:12 Commitment over passion is a weight off your shoulders08:01 The outcome is uncertain, the worth is in the doing10:14 Get off the fenceSolitaire TownsendIt's All Going To Be Ok - by Solitaire TownsendDr Navjot SawneyDr Navjot Sawhney | LinkedInConnect with Emma:WebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emmahttps://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20min

In this energising and honest conversation, Emma and Carbon Literacy Project co-founder Phil Korbel dive into what truly makes carbon literacy impactful. Spoiler: it’s not just about what you know, it’s about how you apply it, talk about it, and make it real in your organisation.From training Nobel-adjacent scientists in Antarctica to working with major corporations facing internal resistance, Emma and Phil share practical insights, surprising lessons, and powerful encouragement for anyone looking to move climate action from the margins to the mainstream.Whether you're a seasoned sustainability professional or just carbon-curious, this episode is a masterclass in meeting people where they are, and bringing them with you.Here are the highlights:0:00 Introduction to Phil and his Journey06:00 The Birth of the Carbon Literacy Project11:59 Challenges in sustainability Training17:50 Balancing Climate Awareness with Mental Health23:00 Empowering Others Through Peer Training25:00 Curiosity and Learning in Climate Change28:00 Building a Community of Trainers29:00 Scaling Carbon Literacy Training33:00 The Role of Governance in Sustainability Projects 36:00 Overcoming Resistance to Carbon Literacy40:00 Trends and Future Directions in Carbon LiteracyConnect with Carbon Literacy Project & Phil:WebsitePhil Korbel - LinkedInConnect with Emma:WebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emmahttps://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20minBook Carbon Literacy Training for yourself or colleaguesUpcoming Courses | Lighthouse Sustainability

This week I’m sharing part of our summer series - 12 simple sustainability tips (numbers 27–38) that are easy to action even when you’re in holiday mode. From switching your search engine to Ecosia, to skipping the lawnmower, there are plenty of small changes that make a big difference.We’re covering everything from flea treatments and sunscreen to eco-friendly ways to host a party and travel during summer. I also touch on why the “eco” setting on your washing machine isn’t just good - it’s legally required to be the most efficient.Have a listen and let me know which one you’re going to try first. The full list and links are in the show notes - happy summer greening!Here are the highlights:Saving Water: Basic Tips and Workplace Practices (3:29)Reducing Pesticide Use (8:23)Marine Conservation (10:29)Reducing Travel Impact (15:54)Reducing Food Waste (17:50)Carbon Literacy (21:46)Defosseling Homes (25:01)Connect with Emma:WebsiteEmailEmma Burlow - LinkedInBook an enquiry call with Emmahttps://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/20minBook Carbon Literacy Training for yourself or colleaguesUpcoming Courses | Lighthouse Sustainability Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week, I’m speaking with Briony Pete - leadership coach and engagement specialist - about why change doesn’t start with strategy; it starts with people. We explored how traditional sustainability roles often miss the mark by not equipping professionals with the mindset or leadership tools needed to influence real transformation.Briony shared that the biggest blocker isn’t a lack of knowledge, but often mindset - imposter feelings, overwhelm, and not knowing how to engage others beyond surface-level support. Her work focuses on building internal confidence, creating space for reflection, and developing trust, all crucial for driving meaningful change.If you’re trying to lead sustainability from within, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights:Briony's Background and Shift to Sustainability (1:59)Challenges in Sustainability Leadership (5:00)Building Trust and Relationships (9:42)Mindset and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (13:47)The Role of Emotions and Discomfort (24:04)Building a Network of Allies (33:12)Top Action for Listeners (37:35)Connect with Briony:Briony Pete | LinkedInhttps://www.circularlife.co.uk/flex_accessBook a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In today’s episode, I share what happened when someone told me, “You need better evidence if you want to convince us.” It made me realise - we’re not here to convince, we’re here to connect.I explore why trying to prove the case for sustainability can create more resistance, and how shifting to curiosity, listening, and meeting people where they are is a far more effective approach.If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to get people on board, this one’s for you. Let’s stop convincing - and start connecting.Here are the highlights:The Importance of Meeting People Where They are (5:06)The Role of Leadership in Sustainability (10:25)Reframing the Approach to Sustainability Communication (13:47)Overcoming Barriers to Effective Communication (14:10)Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week on Straight Talking Sustainability, I’m diving into one of the biggest shake-ups in the sustainability world - the B Corp standards reset. I’m joined by the brilliant Ellie Austin and Jessica Farrow from 12, who work hands-on with purpose-led consumer brands navigating B Corp certification.We talk about what’s changed in the new standards, why the old point-scoring system is out, and how the new approach raises the bar with clear minimum requirements. We also get into the challenges, myths, and real opportunities this creates for brands wanting to walk the talk when it comes to sustainability. If you've been curious (or skeptical) about B Corp, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights:Changes in B Corp Standards (2:28)Growth and Challenges of the B Corp Movement (4:24)Impact of New Standards on Businesses (9:01)Perception and Adoption of the New Standards (23:50)Support and Resources for B Corp Certification (31:15)Connect with Ellie and Jessica:https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/standards/performance-requirements/Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-ferrowEllie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-austinTwelve’s B Corp insights newsletter: https://twelve-futures.kit.com/b-corpTwelve’s website: www.twelvefutures.comBook a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

We’ve officially done it - Lighthouse is now a certified B Corp!  This episode is a bit of a behind-the-scenes on what that really means, why I decided to go for it, and what the journey’s been like as a small business.I’m sharing what helped us get over the line, what surprised me along the way, and the parts that were way more challenging than I expected. It’s been nearly four years in the making - and not always a straight line - but it’s been totally worth it.If you’re a fellow founder who’s B Corp curious, wondering if it’s “worth it” or how the process even works, I hope this gives you some clarity and encouragement.Here are the highlights:Challenges and Benefits of B Corp Certification (2:03)Impact of B Corp on Business Practices (4:19)Administrative Challenges and Scoring (6:14)Tips for Aspiring B Corps (8:50)Resources and Support for B Corp Journey (12:33)Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this inspiring conversation, Emma welcomes global communications coach Caroline Harvey to explore why so many women - especially in STEM and sustainability - struggle to be heard. From imposter syndrome to the myth of “not being expert enough,” they dig into the common barriers women face in sharing their expertise with confidence.Caroline shares practical tips for owning your voice, simplifying complex messages, and using storytelling to create connection and influence. Whether you’re a quiet introvert or navigating a noisy room, this episode offers empowering strategies to help you speak up with impact.Here are the highlights:Imposter Syndrome and Coaching (3:45)Overcoming Barriers and Finding Confidence (7:36)Storytelling and Communication Techniques (13:04)Balancing Positivity and Reality in Communication (19:10)Global Communication and Cultural Sensitivity (35:03)Practical Tips for Overcoming Communication Challenges (37:13)Connect with Caroline:www.carolineharvey.mees.linkedin.com/in/caroharvey/My podcast, Postcards with Presence:https://postcards-with-presence.captivate.fm/The interview on the On Being podcast with journalist David Bornstein:https://onbeing.org/programs/david-bornstein-on-our-lives-with-the-news/Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio