Claim OwnershipImpact at Scale
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Creating Impact and Profit Through Social Innovation - Conversations with the global leaders in Impact Investing and Social Innovation
111 Episodes
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Impact at Scale had an insightful conversation with Alina Truhina, CEO and Managing Partner of The Radical Fund. The Radical Fund is an early-stage VC fund enabling an inclusive climate transition for a resilient Southeast Asia.
Alina discusses the importance of climate innovation and investing in emerging markets. She highlights the need for climate mitigation and adaptation, emphasizing that climate change already impacts emerging markets.
She emphasizes the importance of balancing impact and commercial returns in climate funds. In this conversation, Alina also highlights the need for perception change and radical behaviour change to address the complex challenge of climate change. She discusses the differences between how the West and Asia approach climate action.
Some Topics Alina Covered
Importance of Investing in Emerging Markets
Balancing Climate Mitigation and Adaptation
Conflict between Mission-Driven and Money-Driven Companies
Problem Solution Fit and Customer Validation
Other TItles We Considered
Climate change is already being felt in emerging markets today
You need radical perception change and radical behavior change
Investing in innovation at scale will help us solve and adapt to the crises resulting from climate change.
Brian Sheng, co-founder and CEO of Aquaria, a renewable source of water that taps into the humidity in the air to produce clean, drinkable water. Aquaria's atmospheric water generators (AWGs) act as a backup or alternative water supply that can be installed on-site in hours.
Brian discusses the global water challenge and the innovative solutions offered by his company. The conversation delves into the scarcity of clean water, the impact of climate change, and the potential for decentralized water creation. Brian shares insights on the market for Aquaria's product, the technology behind it, and the significance of addressing the water crisis. The conversation ends on a positive note, highlighting the potential for technology to solve the water problem.
Some Topics Brian Covered
Brian's Journey and the Inspiration for Aquaria
The Water Crisis and the Need for Solutions
Impact of Agriculture and Industry on Water Resources
Hope for the Water Crisis: Technology and Renewable Energy
Other titles We Considered
No one thinks about water costs
25% of the world does not have water
Addressing Scarcity and Sustainability
Impact at Scale had an enlightening conversation with Fred Jordan, co-founder and co-CEO of FinalSpark. FinalSpark wants to revolutionize computing by moving AI from digital processors to bioprocessors built from living neurons, thus saving vast amounts of energy.
Fred discusses the development of a processor that uses living neurons to perform computations. He explains that the human brain is much more energy-efficient than digital processors and shares the challenges and ethical implications of this technology.
The conversation provides a fascinating introduction and insight into the field of biocomputing and wetware computing, which has the potential to be the future of all computing.
Some Topics Fred Covered
Development of a Living Processor
Training Neurons in Artificial and Biological Networks
Ethical Implications and Challenges in AI
Other Titles We Considered
Using digital computation is not really efficient at all.
Trying to simulate a brain would take a small nuclear plant
We need to think of computing in a biological sense
Impact at Scale chatted with Lauren Eatwell, Head of Windwings at BAR Technologies. BAR Technologies was founded on the technology from the prestigious America's Cup Yacht Race and now focuses on maritime innovation and technology, particularly in the area of sustainability. TIME Magazine also recognized Lauren as one of The 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders in 2023.
With shipping being such an essential part of the global economy, it is vital that the industry becomes more sustainable. Lauren delves into the potential of Windwings to revolutionize the maritime industry. Windwings, large adjustable sails that can be installed on dry bulk carriers, have the power to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions significantly. The potential savings from Windwings are substantial, with an average of 1.5 tons of fuel and 4.5 tons of carbon emissions per day per wing. However, the industry faces challenges in convincing stakeholders of the technology's benefits and navigating the complex regulations and classification societies.
Some Topics That Lauren Covered
Development and Design Process
Dealing with such a legacy industry
Challenges in implementing new technology
Fuel and Carbon Emission Savings
Other Titles We Considered
4.5 tonnes per day less carbon emissions per wing
Anything that reduces fuel is reducing carbon dioxide
People want to be associated with positive action
Pushing the boundaries within the rules of safety
Impact At Scale had an insightful conversation with Lester Leong, CEO and co-founder of Gush. Gush develops a range of advanced material solutions for the built environment, all of which focus on sustainability and wellness. Gush has developed 16 SKUs, including paints and films, that aim to improve indoor air quality, reduce energy consumption, and tackle the urban heat island effect.
Lester talks about their innovation process, which involves working with research talent and existing technologies to bring products to market. Gush's sales strategy is deeply rooted in understanding and meeting customer needs, and building strong relationships with enterprise customers. The company prioritizes sustainability and aims to embed it into the entire life cycle of its products.
Topics that Lester Covered
Leveraging Walls for Impact
Navigating Innovation and Commercial Departments
Persuading Non-Passionate Stakeholders
Opportunities for Innovation in the Paint Industry
Other Titles We Considered
The biggest surface area around us are walls
Prioritizing Sustainability in the Built Environment
Understanding what the customer really wants
We chose an industry with little innovation
Impact at Scale connected with Pranav Rastogi, the Head of Communications for Grow Asia. Grow Asia was established by the World Economic Forum, in collaboration with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to convene, facilitate, and help scale action-focused partnerships and broker market-driven solutions that cultivate inclusive, resilient and sustainable food systems in Southeast Asia.
Pranav discusses the organisation's work in sustainable agriculture and food systems transformation. He shares his background in economics and development economics and his interest in solving climate change through behavioural economics.
Pranav explains how Grow Asia brings together the public and private sectors to align incentives, deliver positive climate outcomes, and increase smallholder farmers' incomes. He highlights specific programs, such as GrowHer Cacao, which focuses on women's economic empowerment, and GrowBeyond, which addresses access to finance and technology for small farmers. Pranav also discusses the challenges of working across diverse countries and the vision for the future of Grow Asia.
Some Topics Pranav Covered
Behavioral Economics in Climate Change
Personal Motivation for Joining Grow Asia
Challenges of Working Across Multiple Countries
Vision for the Future of Grow Asia
Other Titles We Considered
Politicians discount the future for the present
Farmers that produce most of the food with no access to funding
Food system transformation is so vital for climate
Impact at Scale had a conversation with Nora Sophie Griefahn, co-founder and executive director of Cradle to Cradle. This C2C NGO is dedicated to education and networking on the topic of Cradle to Cradle. The NGO works with businesses, science, education, politics, and civil society.
Nora discusses the concept of Cradle to Cradle and its goal of creating a positive and beneficial footprint. She explains how Cradle to Cradle aims to transition from a linear economy to a circular economy, starting at the design phase to eliminate waste and create endless cycles of materials. Nora emphasizes the importance of shifting mindsets and values to create a better life for people and the planet.
Some Topics Nora Covered
Inspiration behind Cradle to Cradle
Showcasing What is Possible
Shifting Mindsets and Values
Other Titles We Considered
Keeping what makes us human
There is so much possible already
We want to create faster impact
We can have a better life
Impact at Scale interviews Mairu Gupta, the CEO and founder of Antkind Collective. Antkind is a digital marketing & growth-hacking company focused on climate startups and conscious brands.
In this conversation, we discuss the importance of narratives and marketing strategies for sustainability companies. Mairu shares the genesis of Antkind and its unique approach as a mix of an agency and an accelerator. He also highlights some exciting projects with clients, such as Pyse.
Mairu emphasizes the need for sustainability and climate companies to build a narrative and brand, as well as focus on business development. He provides practical tips for companies to develop their brand and engage with consumers.
Some Topics Mairu Covered
Need for Narrative in Advertising
Unique Approach of AntKind Collective
Building a Marketing Strategy
Practical Tips for Building a Brand
Other Titles We Considered
The recipe for creating a movement
60% of consumers consider sustainability important in brands
In our final installment of speaking to companies in the APAC Cleantech 25, Impact at Scale sat down with Tulika Raj, CEO and co-founder of SunGreenH2. SunGreenH2 is transforming green hydrogen with proprietary technology to produce high-performance, low-cost electrolyzers components using advanced nanostructured materials.
Tulika delves into the crucial role of electrolyzers in creating green hydrogen, a versatile resource that finds application in many industries. From ammonia production to petrochemical refining and chemicals production, hydrogen is a key player. She also explores the potential of hydrogen in the automotive sector, underlining the necessity of a diverse range of renewable energy solutions to achieve net zero emissions. Tulika sheds light on the advantages of Singapore as an innovation hub and the challenges the electrolyzer industry is grappling with. She underscores the significance of regulation and localization of manufacturing in driving the widespread adoption of electrolyzers.
Some Of The Topics Tulika Covered
Use cases for Hydrogen
Potential of Hydrogen in the Automotive Industry
Leapfrogging Technology in Remote Areas
Increasing Adoption of Electrolyzers in Industry
Other Titles We Considered
Opportunity for an energy leapfrog
Supercharging electrolyzers so more hydrogen can be made
Hydrogen has more energy content per unit compared with anything
This week, I am releasing The Impact at Scale Podcast with Zal Dastur early because I wanted this episode with Richard Youngman, CEO of Cleantech Group, to be out before the CleanTech Asia Forum taking place this week in Singapore.
In our conversation, Richard and I discuss his organization's role in supporting global Cleantech innovation. They provide research, data, and consulting services to help corporates, investors, and the public sector engage with startups addressing climate and environmental challenges.
Richard explains that the Cleantech industry has evolved significantly over the years, with a broader range of companies now focused on diverse areas such as alternative proteins, green steel, carbon capture, and more. He emphasizes the importance of both mitigation and adaptation in addressing climate change and optimistically highlights the economic opportunities that come with transitioning to a sustainable industrial system. He hopes the Cleantech Forum Asia event in Singapore will continue to catalyze regional collaboration and innovation.
Some of the topics Richard covered
Role of VCs in the Cleantech Industry
Importance of Government and Corporate Action
Rise of entrepurnism
Adaptation vs mitigation
Other Titles We Considered
Money follows money
We need to get in a different mode
Everybody can contribute
The benefits that can accrue from this are massive.
Everybody who gets involved is always surprised at how collaborative it is
Impact at Scale had an engaging conversation with Charlie McGill, the CEO of ElectraLith, a company specializing in sustainable lithium extraction. ElectraLith's membrane technology offers a cleaner and more cost-efficient method of lithium extraction, reducing the environmental footprint. This is vitally important as the demand for lithium is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by the transition to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
We discuss the challenges of current lithium extraction methods and the need for more environmentally friendly solutions. Charlie explains the unique membrane technology developed by ElectraLith and its potential to revolutionize the lithium extraction process. They also explore the growing demand for lithium and its applications in batteries. The conversation delves into the process of productizing academic ideas and the importance of embracing failure and experimentation in startup culture.
ElectraLith's groundbreaking work has earned them a spot in the prestigious 2024 APAC Cleantech 25 List. They are set to participate in the CleanTech Forum Asia, a significant event in Singapore scheduled for the 7th and 8th of May 2024.
Some of the Topics Charlie Covered
Membrane Technology and Lithium Extraction
Importance of Sustainable Lithium Extraction
Challenges of Productizing Academic Ideas
Embracing Failure and Experimentation
Other Titles We Considered
Just because you have a solution does not mean there is a problem
Teaching academics that it's okay to fail.
If we don't push hard enough, we won't know when we've pushed too far.
Impact at Scale had the privilege of speaking with the remarkable Sharona Shnayder, founder of Tuesdays for Trash and recipient of the National Geographic Young Explorer Award. Sharona shared her inspiring journey and the remarkable expansion of her grassroots environmental movement.
Tuesdays for Trash, born out of the COVID-19 lockdowns, became a beacon of hope for Sharona and her friend to make a difference in the world. What began as a local initiative swiftly transformed into a global force, spanning an impressive 40 countries.
Sharona's narrative is a testament to the belief that each of us holds the power to address environmental challenges. She candidly shares the obstacles and victories she's encountered in her activism, underscoring the urgent need for policy shifts and educational campaigns to effectively manage waste.
Some of the topics Sharona covered
Starting Tuesdays for Trash
Manifesting the Movement
Using Social Media to Spread Awareness
Unexpected Growth and Becoming a Movement
Some Incredible Moments
Other Titles We Considered
How to start a movement
It's an act of respect
We're making it seen and visible so people don't feel like they're alone in this fight
It's so simple and easy it makes it accessible to anyone
This episode of Impact at Scale features Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize, fresh off the heels of the recent awards ceremony in Singapore. Founded by Prince William, the Earthshot Prize draws inspiration from President John F. Kennedy's moonshot challenge, aiming to tackle seemingly impossible environmental goals within a decade.
Hannah's conviction and passion during the conversation is infectious, and you can feel her enthusiasm for what the future holds and how we will get there.
Our discussion with Hannah shed light on the Earthshot Prize's global impact, instilling a sense of hope for a sustainable future. Hannah's extensive experience at Nike, where she championed sustainability and innovation, prepared her well for her current role as CEO of Earthshot.
We explored the prize's function as a platform for a worldwide movement of optimism and action on sustainability, the meticulous search and selection process that uncovers countless potential solutions, and her aspiration to create a World Cup moment for environmental solutions, sparking global action. We even talk about what it is like to work with Prince William and his passion for the prize.
Some of the topics Hannah covered
Earthshot Prize's Mission
Search and Selection Process
Journey to the Earthshot Prize
Social Tipping Points
Green Growth in Singapore:
Other Titles We Considered
We have to turn anger into action and a sense of agency.
We are the Google search engine for all environmental solutions."
Climate change is going to make COVID look easy.
It always seems hard until it isn't
Impact at Scale got to have an insightful conversation with Dale Rickert, Global Head of Product, GREENTECH FESTIVAL and Jan Willem Bolderdijk, Professor of Sustainability & Marketing at the University of Amsterdam.
This was a wide-ranging conversation that covered many different topics. We examined cultural tipping points and their importance in the fight against climate change. There was also a lively discussion on the ethical and cultural aspects of marketing and consumption in a sustainable future.
This conversation was a fantastic melding of theory and practical application of behavioral change as they see it in the real world. It was an insightful discussion for anyone interested in how we change the global mindset on sustainability.
Some of the topics Dale and Jan covered:
Social Tipping Points
Storytelling and Marketing
Intention-Behavior Gap
Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Change
Some other titles we considered for this episode
Culture eats strategy for breakfast
Change instigated by those who don’t have a lot of power
People will speak out when they feel there’s institutional support
Impact at Scale had the opportunity to meet and discuss all things food with Vikas Garg, founder of abillion. abillion serves as a social media platform, consumer review platform, and marketplace focused on sustainability. Vikas discusses the platform's mission to inspire a billion people to make sustainable choices. The platform focuses on food, injecting purpose and values into consumer choices.
Vikas explains that the inspiration behind abillion stemmed from his observation of the misinformation and data misuse on social media platforms, leading him to create a platform where every action creates a positive impact. He highlights the platform's community-driven approach and efforts to ensure accurate and reliable information. Garg emphasizes the importance of sustainability in food choices, noting meat production's inefficiencies and environmental impact.
Some of the topics that Vikas covered
Being Mission Driven
Sustainability in Food Choices
Power of Community and User-Generated Content
Educating Users on Impactful Choices
Other Titles We Considered
Inspire a billion for the planet
Help people make responsible decisions
I'm a big believer in movements
Red meat is a type one carcinogen right up there with tobacco
Impact at Scale sat down for a coffee with Matthew Howe, Founder of Grobrix. Grobrix offers an innovative urban farming service for businesses. Grobrix is a Lego-inspired, modular growing system that seamlessly integrates into any office environment. The company takes care of everything, from installation and maintenance to harvesting the crops, allowing employees to enjoy the benefits of fresh, local produce without the hassle.
Matthew, a former banker who turned his passion for sustainability into a thriving business, sees that Grobrix is more than just a convenient source of greens. It's a powerful tool for promoting sustainability, health, and employee engagement. In a world increasingly disconnected from our food source, Grobrix fosters a sense of connection with where our food comes from.
Some of the topics that Mathew Covered:
From Finance to Farming
Design inspiration from Lego
Beyond Convenience: Sustainability and Impact
The Future of Urban Farming
Some other titles we considered for this episode:
A cross between a gardener and a personal trainer
Making everyone an urban farmer
I had an insightful conversation with Helena Wasserman, CEO of Unstoppable, on the Impact at Scale Podcast. We delved into her journey from the tech world to the climate space and discussed Unstoppable's mission to support climate founders. She felt hopeful about the talent joining the climate movement and the importance of having a clear vision for positive change.
Helena also suggested books that make people feel empowered to create a change.
Saving the Planet Without the Bullshit by Assaad Razzouk and
The Future We Choose by Christiana Figueres
Some of the Topics Helena Covered:
Climate Investment Trends
Changing Definitions of Growth
Unstoppable's Mission
Vision for Change
Other Titles We Considered for this Episode:
Investing in the Future: Climate Solutions & Scaling Change
From Deforestation to Regeneration
The Talent Shift: Why Climate is Attracting the Best Minds
Vision & Action: Fueling the Fight Against Climate Change
In this episode of Impact at Scale, Zal Dastur, your host, dives deep into the sobering reality of climate change with Ben Horton, Director of the Earth Observatory of Singapore. We confront the stark truth of science's struggle to communicate the urgency of the crisis to policymakers and the public. Ben unpacks the daunting challenges of prioritizing carbon reduction in decision-making, emphasizing the critical need for a swift transition to renewable energy.
Beyond technical solutions, the conversation delves into the psychological dimension, exploring the role of behavioral change in addressing the crisis. Ben emphasizes the importance of education, political will, and long-term thinking as essential weapons in this existential battle.
This episode is a stark call to action, urging us to move beyond despair and embrace the power of collective action in the face of climate change.
Some of the topics that Ben covered
Science's Failure on Climate Change
The Challenges of Behavioral Change
Short-Term Thinking and Lack of Political Will
The Importance of Choice and Making Sustainable Decisions
Every decision we make needs to take carbon into account
Some other titles we considered for this episode
When an ice sheet melts, it doesn't have a conscious
There is no vaccine for climate change
2023 is the best year we will get for decades
In our latest episode, Impact at Scale delves into a transformative conversation with Erik Haug, the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Light CoCreative. This global innovation and impact collective is on a mission—dedicated to pioneering sustainable solutions that address the fundamental needs of humanity.
Erik's passion for sustainability and climate action is palpable. With an extensive background, he collaborates with some of the world's titans to reshape their business models into forces for positive change, harmonizing profitability with planetary health.
At the heart of Erik's vision is a profound belief: true human potential can only be realized when basic needs—food, water, and healthcare—are met. His commitment shines through in LIGHT CoCreative, a company exclusively aligned with organizations sharing the same path toward meaningful impact.
Some of the Topics Erik covered:
Looking long-term vs short-term
The power of purpose-driven talent
Changing consumer preferences
Solving basic needs first
Some other titles we considered for this episode:
We need visionary leadership
It is easy to get off course when our compass isn't aligned
The next generation of consumers is leading the way
In a cooperative way, we need to be competitive
Impact at Scale sits down with Sebastian Mueller, co-founder of Ming Labs, a design and tech consultancy passionate about empowering businesses to drive positive change for the planet.
Sebastian believes businesses are a powerful force for good and seeks to help companies understand how to utilize their influence for a more significant impact within their industries. He dives into the intersection of design, technology, and sustainability, sharing insights for businesses to become powerful catalysts for a more sustainable future.
Some of the topics Sebastian covered
Turning a business toward sustainability
How do you own change?
The impact of tech on the planet
Changing business models in sustainability
Some other titles we considered for this episode:
The internet has been built with speed, not with energy efficiency
You cannot have sustainability without the digital side
Every single industry is going to look different in 20 years
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