Sustainability Defined
Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and one bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Nethra Rajendran and Cecilia Rios. Each episode focuses on a single topic that pushes sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com Created by Scott Breen and Jay Siegel
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Ep. 88: The Plastic Trail of Your Online Order - and the Seaweed Alternative
06/07/2025
Ep. 88: The Plastic Trail of Your Online Order - and the Seaweed Alternative
Online shopping is convenient, but at what cost?! In this episode, we explore the massive plastic footprint hidden in your doorstep deliveries, from poly mailers to mixed-material packaging that often ends up in landfills. Cecilia and Nethra break down the environmental toll of e-commerce and spotlight the innovative seaweed-based alternative offered by cleantech startup SWAY. Don’t miss our interview with Alyssa Pace, SWAY’s Communications Lead, as we dive into how compostable packaging and seaweed/nature based solutions could help reshape the future of sustainable shipping.
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Ep 87: Wetlands & The World's Largest Restoration Project
05/05/2025
Ep 87: Wetlands & The World's Largest Restoration Project
Wetlands are the unsung heroes of climate resilience. From flood protection to water filtration, these ecosystems are biodiversity hot spots and are critical for the health of our planet. In this episode, learn more about what exactly a wetland is and how they are vital. Learn about the world's largest restoration project taking place in the Florida Everglades as we sit down with Dr. Steve Davis, the Chief Science Officer at The Everglades Foundation. The Everglades Foundation has been the driving force behind the biggest environmental restoration project in the world. The project aims to “lubricate” the Everglades with much-needed fresh water to save an ecosystem unlike any other on the planet, ensure continued access to drinking water for more than 9 million Floridians, and prevent yearly outbreaks of blue-green algae that clog Florida waterways with a guacamole-like substance.
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Atypical Ep. 10: Innovations in Sustainable Aviation - Insights from the Airbus Summit
04/21/2025
Atypical Ep. 10: Innovations in Sustainable Aviation - Insights from the Airbus Summit
Did you know that airplanes can run on waste cooking oil, municipal solid waste, forestry waste, and even algae in the form of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)? Well, they can. Biomimicry, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), and aircrafts inspired by GEESE? Learn about some of the innovations happening right now in the aviation industry and where it's headed in the coming decades. The industry has some ambitious goals of reaching net zero by 2050, running aircrafts on mainly SAFs, using newer lightweight materials to reduce fuel consumption, and even getting aircrafts to fly in the same v-pattern as flocks of geese to lower their carbon footprints. Hosts, Cecilia & Nethra, took field trip to Toulouse, France and attended the Airbus Summit 2025. Learn about their insights from the summit and hear some lightning interviews from a few of the leading experts at Airbus such as: Julie Kitcher, Chief Sustainability Officer Jonathan Beck, Flight Operations R&T IPT Leader Sue Partridge, Head of Wing of Tomorrow Programme Antjie Bulmann, Direct Air Capture Expert
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Ep 86: Hot Commodities: Chocolate & Sustainability
04/04/2025
Ep 86: Hot Commodities: Chocolate & Sustainability
Welcome to the first episode of Hot Commodities: Chocolate & Sustainability, a new series from Sustainability Defined! Meet your new hosts, Cecilia and Nethra, as they dive into the environmental and social challenges within the chocolate supply chain. From cacao farming to the final product, they break down the key players, power imbalances, and pressing issues like deforestation, child labor, and climate change. This episode explores the role of women in cacao production, the struggles of smallholder farmers against large corporations, and potential solutions such as agroforestry and ethical sourcing. Cecilia and Nethra aim to unpack the complexities of this "wicked problem" and empower listeners to make more informed choices. You'll also hear from agricultural economist and Former World Cacao President William Guyton, followed by insights from Tony's Chocolonely. Their interviews highlight the need for collaboration, fair trade certifications, and conscious consumer action to build a more sustainable and equitable chocolate industry. Tune in to uncover the bittersweet truth behind your favorite treat!
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Atypical Ep. 9: Meet Your New Hosts!
03/07/2025
Atypical Ep. 9: Meet Your New Hosts!
👋 Big news, Definers! We're thrilled to introduce your NEW podcast hosts, Cecilia Rios & Nethra Rajendran! We are excited to be passing the mic to two incredible voices. In this episode, Jay and Scott join Cecilia and Nethra for a warm welcome and a sneak peek at what's to come with Sustainability Defined. We are confident they will bring fresh perspectives and a wealth of passion to the table. Get to know them in this special introductory episode as they share their backgrounds, sustainability interests, and the future direction of the show. Ready to meet your new hosts? Listen now! ----- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Episode from Sea Change Podcast: "All Gassed Up: Part 1: The Carbon Coast"
02/07/2025
Episode from Sea Change Podcast: "All Gassed Up: Part 1: The Carbon Coast"
This month we are continuing our break and sharing another episode from the Sea Change Podcast! However, stay tuned for next month as we are on track to introduce you to our new hosts. We are so excited to introduce you to them! Find Sea Change on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts to listen to the entire "All Gassed Up" series. About this Series: Right now in the US, there is a GAS BOOM. A liquified natural gas boom — or LNG. The US produces the most LNG in the world. And the epicenter of this massive expansion? It’s here on the Gulf Coast. “All Gassed Up,” a three-part special series from the award-winning podcast Sea Change, investigates the global expansion of liquified natural gas, or LNG. Led by co-hosts Carlyle Calhoun and Halle Parker, the series follows the journey of American gas around the world to find out if LNG is the miracle fuel it’s claimed to be. If it really can prevent a climate apocalypse. Or is it a carbon bomb waiting to go off? Episode 1: The Carbon Coast: The story starts in Louisiana — ground zero. We see how the rise of these massive export terminals has transformed one community. Is this big bet on LNG worth it? --------------- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Episode from Hazard NJ Podcast: "First a Miracle, Then a Curse"
01/03/2025
Episode from Hazard NJ Podcast: "First a Miracle, Then a Curse"
Happy New Year, Definers! This month we are continuing our break and sharing a podcast episode from an Uproot Project member, independent podcast producer and investigative journalist - Jordan Gass-Poore'. “Hazard NJ” is an NJ Spotlight News podcast that examines serious pollution issues. Season 2 dives deep into the crisis of toxic pollution caused by PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” around New Jersey and beyond. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music and more. We hope you enjoy it! As a reminder, we are still doubling donations to the Uproot Project up to the first $500. Email your donation receipt to [email protected], and we will double it! — Episode Description: Hazard NJ: S2, E1: First a Miracle, Then a Curse It was 1938 at a DuPont laboratory in far South Jersey when scientists stumbled upon the chemical that would become known as Teflon. The accidental discovery became a scientific miracle, laying the groundwork for an entirely new class of incredibly durable chemicals that would be used for all sorts of purposes. But that progress came with a toxic hidden cost that has only recently become fully understood. Now, the small town where it all started is on the front lines of a global pollution crisis. Credits: HAZARD N-J IS AN N-J SPOTLIGHT NEWS PRODUCTION… YOU CAN SUPPORT OUR REPORTING BY HEADING TO N-J SPOTLIGHT NEWS DOT ORG SLASH DONATE. THE SHOW IS WRITTEN… EDITED… AND HOSTED BY ME… JORDAN GASS-POORE. MICHAEL SOL WARREN CONTRIBUTED REPORTING. HE ALSO CO WROTE AND PRODUCED ALL EPISODES. JAMES KRAFT IS THE EXECUTIVE PRODUCER WITH N-J SPOTLIGHT NEWS. OUR EXECUTIVE IN CHARGE OF PRODUCTION IS JOE LEE. CHLOE MOTISI IS OUR PRODUCTION MANAGER. ADDITIONAL RESEARCH WAS DONE BY JUDAH DUKE. OUR SOUND DESIGNER AND ENGINEER IS MARK BUSH. MUSIC FOR HAZARD N-J WAS COMPOSED BY NICK PENNINGTON. ARTWORK BY MATTHEW FLEMING. SPECIAL THANKS TO THE SCIENCE HISTORY INSTITUTE IN PHILADELPHIA FOR PROVIDING THE ORAL HISTORY INTERVIEW OF DUPONT SCIENTIST ROY PLUNKETT… …ARROW FILMS FOR THE USE OF THE CRAZIES TRAILER… AND THE HAGLEY LIBRARY FOR THE TEFLON RELATED AUDIO CLIPS.
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Ep. 85: 2024 Holiday Hodge Podge
12/06/2024
Ep. 85: 2024 Holiday Hodge Podge
The end of the year is near! It’s time for our annual Holiday Hodge Podge episode. This year we summarize some of our favorite podcast and sustainability moments from the year and of all time, Jay and Scott provide personal updates and their favorite sustainability articles of the year, and we give some sustainable holiday gift ideas. We also discuss what’s next for the podcast. We hope you all have a great holiday season! ----------------- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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*UPDATED* Ep. 52: Feminine Hygiene Products with Celia Pool and Alec Mills (DAME)
11/01/2024
*UPDATED* Ep. 52: Feminine Hygiene Products with Celia Pool and Alec Mills (DAME)
Happy November Definers! This month we are continuing our break and resharing a listener favorite, Episode #52: Feminine Hygiene Products with Celia Pool and Alec Mills of DAME. Unfortunately, the artificial sensitivities around the topic of this episode - feminine hygiene products - have hindered widespread discussion of the significant environmental and social issues associated with these products. Join us as we investigate the many sustainability issues they affect, from environmental footprints and social acceptance to female genital health and access and equity. If you have been wondering about the latest with DAME, a company that has reimagined period products with more comfortable and sustainable alternatives, in this replay episode we have included some of the latest updates from the company. We hope you enjoy the listen! As a reminder, we are accepting applications from Definers to take over the show. More details are in the September episode. If you are interested in this opportunity, please make sure to apply ASAP as we're starting to review applications! You can email us with your interest and why you should take over at . ------- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Episode from Sea Change Podcast: "Bringing Back The Beach"
10/04/2024
Episode from Sea Change Podcast: "Bringing Back The Beach"
This month we are on break and sharing a podcast episode from an Uproot Project member and environmental journalist - Eva Tesfaye. We hope you enjoy it! Two reminders: —We announced last month Jay and Scott are moving on and accepting applications from Definers to take over the show. More details in last month’s episode. You can email us with your interest and why you should take over at . —We are still doubling donations to Uproot Project up to the first $500. Email your donation receipt to , and we will double it! Here’s a description of Eva’s Sea Change podcast episode: Even though New Orleans has water in every direction, it’s hard to access. And for a city with increasingly sweltering summers, this irony is painful. This episode talks about the uncomfortable history of Lincoln Beach, how it led to New Orleans not having any public beaches today, and how a community has rallied together to get their beach back. The episode starts in the era of segregation, where if you were Black, the only place to soak up sun and sand was Lincoln Beach. This episode was reported and hosted by Eva Tesfaye. Carlyle Calhoun is the managing producer. This episode was edited by Rosemary Westwood and Carlyle Calhoun with additional editing help from Halle Parker, Tyler Pratt, and Ryan Vasquez. Joseph King voiced WEB Dubois. Garrett Hazelwood is our fact-checker. Our sound designer is Emily Jankowski and our theme music is by Jon Batiste. Sea Change is a WWNO and WRKF production. We're a part of the NPR Podcast Network and distributed by PRX. Sea Change is made possible with major support from the Gulf Research Program of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. WWNO's Coastal Desk is supported by the Walton Family Foundation, the Meraux and the Greater New Orleans Foundation. You can reach the Sea Change team at .
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Atypical Ep. 8: Jay and Scott are Moving On…You Can Take Over!
09/06/2024
Atypical Ep. 8: Jay and Scott are Moving On…You Can Take Over!
Happy September Definers! We’ve got a bit of a different episode for you all this month as we discuss what is next for Sustainability Defined through the rest of the year and beyond. As we mention in this month’s short episode, we are hoping to pass along the show to the next generation of hosts. We hope that the show will afford a few of our Definers the early career opportunities, benefits, and fun that we experienced as we created the show. If you’re interested, reach out to us at and convince us that you’re the right person to take the show to its next level. ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep 84: Sustainable Jewelry with Anna-Mieke Anderson (MiaDonna)
08/02/2024
Ep 84: Sustainable Jewelry with Anna-Mieke Anderson (MiaDonna)
Fine jewelry is made from precious metals, think gold and silver, and stones, like diamonds or other gemstones. Traditionally these raw materials are mined from deep in the earth’s mantle and produced with extensive human labor to create the rings, necklaces, and other jewelry pieces we love to wear. As an industry, this component of our style can create negative effects on both the environment and people. In this episode, we explore the world of sustainable jewelry and how the industry is addressing environmental and ethical challenges. This episode is sponsored by MiaDonna, an innovative, ethical fine jewelry company. It specializes in designer-style, affordably priced, conflict-free engagement rings and fine jewelry made exclusively from lab-grown diamonds and recycled gold and platinum. MiaDonna is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, USA, and sells to more than 40 countries worldwide. Our expert interview is with Anna-Mieke Anderson, Founder and CEO of MiaDonna, as well as its charitable foundation, The Greener Diamond. She is an internationally recognized environmental and humanitarian activist and a pioneering visionary in the lab-grown diamond industry. ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep. 83 Avocado Sustainability with Honor Eldridge (Author of “The Avocado Debate”)
07/05/2024
Ep. 83 Avocado Sustainability with Honor Eldridge (Author of “The Avocado Debate”)
Definers, we’re back this month with a fun episode around a fan favorite, the avocado! It is estimated that per capita consumption of avocados in the United States has grown by 440% in the last 20 years and around 11 billion pounds of avocados are eaten globally. This has raised many questions about the sustainability of farming, production, and enjoyment of this fruit. In the episode we share a little about how avocados make it from farm to your guacamole and some of the social and environmental implications of our complex food systems. We are joined by Honor Eldridge, Food Systems Expert and Author of “The Avocado Debate,” a newly published book that provides insight and perspective on the unseen impacts of one of the world’s most popular foods. ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep 82: Forest Management with Chris Reeves (P&G) and Amy Clark Eagle (Forest Stewardship Council U.S.)
06/07/2024
Ep 82: Forest Management with Chris Reeves (P&G) and Amy Clark Eagle (Forest Stewardship Council U.S.)
Definers, did you know that forests cover one third of land globally and house some of the earth’s most precious natural resources? In this month’s episode, we’re discussing forest management and how organizations are working to maintain and enhance the economic, social, and environmental value of global forests. This episode is #sponsored by Procter & Gamble (P&G). P&G is working directly with their supply chain partners and other organizations to grow the supply of sustainably sourced certified materials and pulp. P&G paper brands, which include tissue and towel products from Bounty, Puffs, and Charmin, have an ambition to source 100% Forest Stewardship Council™ certified pulp by 2030. In the episode, we are joined by certified forester Chris Reeves who works on P&G's paper business and Amy Clark Eagle, the Director of Science & Certification at Forest Stewardship Council U.S. We hope that you “branch out” and give this episode a listen! ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep. 81: Resiliency in Residential Real Estate with Becky Becker (Equity Residential) and Lindsay Brugger (Urban Land Institute)
05/03/2024
Ep. 81: Resiliency in Residential Real Estate with Becky Becker (Equity Residential) and Lindsay Brugger (Urban Land Institute)
Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and scorching summers are putting a strain on residential real estate. Research on nearly 200 climate events from 2000 to 2019 from The World Economic Forum found that the global costs associated with climate change have cost around $2.8 trillion, when accounting for the cost of damage to infrastructure, property, agriculture, and human health. In this episode, we'll explore the impacts climate change has changed the residential real estate landscape, discuss the latest trends in climate-resilient construction and discover how large asset managers are working towards a more sustainable future. We are joined by Becky Becker, Vice President of Environmental and Climate Adaptation at Equity Residential (EQR) and Lindsay Brugger, Vice President of Urban Resilience at Urban Land Institute. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or investor, we hope this episode will leave you with a foundation of knowledge to weather the storm of resilience in residential real estate. ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means.
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Atypical Ep 7: Responsible Beauty
04/05/2024
Atypical Ep 7: Responsible Beauty
Happy April Definers! We’re back this month with a special bonus episode about P&G Responsible Beauty, sponsored by Procter & Gamble (P&G). Through Responsible Beauty, P&G has committed to being a positive force for beauty in the world as they work to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for all. In this episode, we have a “beautiful” conversation with John Scarchilli, Director, Procter & Gamble Hair Care, Scientific Communications, about how brands like Herbal Essences, Head & Shoulders and Olay are building sustainability into superior product designs, leveraging P&G’s Responsible Beauty principles. We cover everything from responsible sourcing, to the reduction of virgin plastic use, inclusive design and more. Hope you’ll take a listen! ------- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means.
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Ep 80: Carbon Removal with Ben Rubin (Carbon Business Council)
03/01/2024
Ep 80: Carbon Removal with Ben Rubin (Carbon Business Council)
Since many of our current decarbonization and greenhouse gas reduction pathways aren’t making progress at the needed scale, the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change( IPCC) found that carbon removal is now “essential” to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. Many cite carbon removal as the key to addressing climate change, when combined with traditional emissions reduction strategies. In this month’s episode, we’ll give you a run down on the basics of carbon removal along with the successes and challenges in this area of climate action. We are joined by Ben Rubin, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Carbon Business Council, who is working with a coalition of more than 100 innovative companies to responsibly restore the climate. Ben shares how organizations are working to tackle climate change through carbon removal strategies and what the future could look like for this fast moving industry. ------- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means.
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Atypical Ep 6: The Uproot Project
02/02/2024
Atypical Ep 6: The Uproot Project
We’re back this month with a special atypical episode featuring The Uproot Project! The Uproot Project is a network for and by environmental journalists of color. The organization is working to address the need for more journalists of color in newsrooms covering environmental topics. During the episode you’ll hear from Lucia Priselac, Founding Director of The Uproot Project, who details more about the creation of the organization, her role, its work, and how the public can support. As a part of this episode, we are offering to match your support of the amazing work of The Uproot Project. Just email your donation receipt to [email protected], and we will match your donation, up to the first $500 of donations. An easy way to double your impact!
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Ep 79: 2023 Holiday Hodge-Podge
12/01/2023
Ep 79: 2023 Holiday Hodge-Podge
Happy December Definers! It is time again for our annual Holiday Hodge Podge episode. Tune in to hear the Sustainability Defined Team’s favorite podcast moments from the year and interesting sustainability articles, meet our Research & Operations Director, Taylor, and hear Scott and Jay’s professional/personal updates, and sustainable gift ideas - PLUS our holiday gift giveaway! Have a happy holiday season! --- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep 78: Invasive Species with Leigh Greenwood (The Nature Conservancy)
11/03/2023
Ep 78: Invasive Species with Leigh Greenwood (The Nature Conservancy)
Invasive species are known to cause harm to the environment, economies, and even human health. Managing these species has become of major concern globally, as invasive species are one of the top factors that contribute to biodiversity loss. In fact, a 2023 United Nations global assessment report estimated that invasive species have been a major factor in 60% of all recorded animal and plant extinctions! In this episode we have a fantastic discussion with Leigh Greenwood, the Forest Pest and Pathogen Program Director at The Nature Conservancy. Leigh provides some great insight on how these species spread and what actions are being taken to manage them. We hope you let this episode invade your headphones! ---- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy
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Ep. 77 Human Rights in Supply Chains with Aruna Kashyap (Human Rights Watch) and Alex Silberman (U.S. Department of Labor)
10/06/2023
Ep. 77 Human Rights in Supply Chains with Aruna Kashyap (Human Rights Watch) and Alex Silberman (U.S. Department of Labor)
Business supply chains are complex, diverse, and have a lot of stakeholders. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), more than 450 million people work in supply chain-related jobs. In this month’s new episode, we break down the landscape of global supply chains and the interconnectedness with human rights across the globe. We have two expert guests sharing their expertise: –Aruna Kashyap, Associate Director on Corporate Accountability in the Economic Justice and Rights Division at Human Rights Watch and –Alex Silberman, International Relations Specialist at The U.S. Department of Labor. Both provide insights and examples that help us understand human rights and supply chains and how definers can take action. Give it a listen wherever you get your podcasts! ---- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy
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Ep 76: Rare Earths with Scott Dunn (Noveon Magnetics)
08/04/2023
Ep 76: Rare Earths with Scott Dunn (Noveon Magnetics)
This month we are talking all about rare earths, the role they play in today’s society and the efforts to improve their sustainability. While you may not be familiar with the 17 rare earth elements, the chances are very high that if you’re reading this right now, rare earths are actually a common part of your daily life. This episode is #sponsored by Noveon Magnetics. Noveon is a company working to redefine and rebuild the rare earth magnet industry to be one that doesn’t just power the needs of today but can last to power every need far beyond tomorrow. During the show we have a conversation with Scott Dunn, CEO at Noveon Magnetics and learn more about how these critical elements are acquired, used, and recycled. ---- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means.
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Ep 75: The Energy Grid with Kristina Skierka (Power for All)
07/07/2023
Ep 75: The Energy Grid with Kristina Skierka (Power for All)
Our July episode is all about the energy grid! We discuss how electric grids work, the conditions of grids around the world, and emerging trends and policies that can improve grid sustainability and resiliency. We are joined in the episode by Kristina Skierka, CEO at Power for All. Power for All is an organization that envisions a world where all people benefit from the opportunities and quality of life that come from reliable, affordable, clean energy. This episode should “illuminate” all there is to know about how grid systems work to power our lives! ------- Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means.
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Ep 74: Transparency with Dan Saccardi (Ceres) & Kathy Mulvey (Union of Concerned Scientists)
06/09/2023
Ep 74: Transparency with Dan Saccardi (Ceres) & Kathy Mulvey (Union of Concerned Scientists)
We are back this month with an episode on transparency. Historically, businesses have kept a lot of information guarded, but when it comes to sustainability, more companies are using transparency to make decisions, gain trust, and engage with their consumers, investors, and other key stakeholders. After an introduction going over the basics of all things sustainability and transparency with a focus on corporate transparency, we have TWO expert guests: , Accountability Campaign Director, Climate & Energy Program, at the Union of Concerned Scientists , Program Director, Company Network at Ceres We hope this episode will “clear up” any questions you have about why transparency is an important part of sustainability at the corporate level!
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Atypical Ep 5: STAFFER Podcast Episode with Mike Boots (Breakthrough Energy and Gates Ventures)
05/05/2023
Atypical Ep 5: STAFFER Podcast Episode with Mike Boots (Breakthrough Energy and Gates Ventures)
We’re taking this month off, but we still have new content for you in the form of an episode of one of our favorite podcasts–STAFFER. STAFFER is a weekly podcast with former staffers sharing their stories of working on the Hill hosted by Jim Papa of Global Strategy Group. This episode features an interview with an accomplished sustainability professional, Mike Boots, Executive Vice President at Breakthrough Energy and Director of the Gates Ventures DC Office. By listening, you’ll learn a lot about Mike’s career journey and lessons learned along the way including from staffing Ted Danson (yes, of Cheers fame) and Bill Gates. Listeners of our show know our traditional last question of asking for a party fact. Well, Jim has his own. One is called “in the vault.” He asks his interviewees for a time that you made a mistake, how you recovered, and what you learned? The other is if he could build a hall of fame to staffers on the national mall, who would you nominate to the staffer hall of fame and why? Check out the episode to hear Mike’s answers. You can find STAFFER wherever you get your podcasts and at staffershow.com. We’ll see you soon with new Sustainability Defined content!
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Bonus Episode: Georgetown University’s Master of Science in Environment and Sustainability Management (MS-ESM) Program
04/21/2023
Bonus Episode: Georgetown University’s Master of Science in Environment and Sustainability Management (MS-ESM) Program
This new bonus episode introduces our Definers to the Master of Science in Environment and Sustainability Management Program, or MS-ESM program at Georgetown University. The MS-ESM program is a full-time, 11-month interdisciplinary program held on-campus in Washington, D.C. Over the 11 month time span, students complete courses that blend science with business principles that are critical to meeting the world's sustainability goals. In this episode we chat with a professor and a student in the program: Vishal Agrawal, the Henry J. Blommer Family Endowed Chair in Sustainable Business and a Professor of Operations Management at the McDonough School of Business and David Yellen, a current Georgetown MS-ESM Student and Strategic Advisor at the Clean Air Task Force. This bonus episode is perfect for Definers looking to enhance their knowledge about sustainability while continuing their education. If you are interested in being a part of the Fall 2023 cohort, applications are currently being accepted through May 15th. Visit for more information. This episode is sponsored by the McDonough School of Business, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and Earth Commons at Georgetown University.
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Ep 73: Water Conservation with Ashley Fill (Procter & Gamble)
04/07/2023
Ep 73: Water Conservation with Ashley Fill (Procter & Gamble)
This episode is on water conservation and #sponsored by Procter & Gamble (P&G). Water is Earth’s most abundant natural resource, as more than 71% of the Earth’s surface is water. However, freshwater that can be used by humans is only a small percentage of this available water. Because of this we have to preserve, control, and manage our water resources through conservation. We hope our Definers are thirsty to learn about how we as humans use and can conserve water. The episode includes a focus on how P&G’s Home Care team is working toward a water positive future across its manufacturing facilities, its product offerings that enable people to save water, and its work protecting biodiversity and restoring water in water-stressed areas. In this episode, we have a fantastic conversation with Ashley Fill, Director of Sustainability for North America Home Care at P&G (and long-time Definer!) about the steps P&G has taken to advance water conservation as part of the company’s larger sustainability strategy. Join us for a deep dive into all things water conservation! ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Bonus Episode: Yale's Financing and Deploying Clean Energy Certificate Program
02/17/2023
Bonus Episode: Yale's Financing and Deploying Clean Energy Certificate Program
We know Definers are always hungry for ways to maximize their impact within sustainability, so we're excited to focus today's bonus episode on Yale's Financing and Deploying Clean Energy Program. Yale’s Financing and Deploying Clean Energy (FDCE) online certificate program trains and connects rising leaders to catalyze an equitable transition to a clean economy. In the episode you will hear from Rob Klee, a Lecturer at Yale and the Managing Director of the Clean Energy Program at the Yale Center for Business and the Environment, as well as Dr. Luis Aguirre-Torres, a Senior Adviser at Rewiring America and an alum of the FDCE certificate program. If you're inspired by the episode and want to expand your skills in this area you can apply to the FDCE upcoming cohort by March 12, 2023 by visiting . ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep 72: Biodiversity with Dr. Paula Ehrlich (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation)
02/03/2023
Ep 72: Biodiversity with Dr. Paula Ehrlich (E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation)
Biodiversity underpins many things we rely on (think food, water, and oxygen). In fact, half of the world’s GDP is dependent on natural resources. This means that about $44 trillion of economic value across the globe relies on nature and its interconnectedness. So... something worth paying attention to! Join us as we dissect this topic with the help of Dr. Paula Ehrlich, President and CEO of the E. O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation. Enjoy! ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means. www.sustainabilitydefined.com
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Ep 71: Water & Agriculture with Ashwin Madgavkar (Ceres Imaging)
01/06/2023
Ep 71: Water & Agriculture with Ashwin Madgavkar (Ceres Imaging)
From the carrots you're munching on to the chocolate in your grande extra-whip double-mocha latte (no judgment), agricultural water use underpins most everything we eat on a daily basis. In fact, agriculture on average accounts for 70% of all freshwater withdrawals globally - enough to cover the entire United States in 2 feet of water each year. Join us as we unpack this critical issue with the help of Ashwin Madgavkar, founder of Ceres Imaging, an innovative spectral imaging company and 2020 Zayed Sustainability Prize recipient working to optimize agricultural water use around the world. Learn more about the Zayed Sustainability Prize . ------ Sustainability Defined is the podcast that defines sustainability, one concept (and bad joke) at a time. Hosted by Jay Siegel and Scott Breen. Each episode focuses on a single topic that helps push sustainability forward. We explain each topic with the help of an experienced pro, place it within our organizational tree, and help our listeners define what exactly sustainability is, episode by episode. We have divided our organizational tree into the following seven sectors: Energy Cities Natural Environment Transportation Business Policy Social Each episode is categorized under one of our sectors and visually depicted within our organizational tree. The more episodes we complete, the more the tree will visually define what exactly sustainability means.
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