SustainNOW Podcast - Exploring Climate Solutions with Innovators and Entrepreneurs

Friederike von Waldenfels
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SustainNOW interviews entrepreneurs and scientists on innovative climate solutions in sectors like agriculture, investing, carbon sequestration, and much more. Hosted by Friederike von Waldenfels, a tech entrepreneur and climate enthusiast, the podcast raises awareness and inspires action among entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals, encouraging a hopeful and engaged approach to solving the climate crisis. Our Vision: "To dig deeper in finding climate solutions." Our Mission: "Interviewing founders and experts to find solutions (not only problems)." Lets connect, learn and collaborate!

  1. 43. Investing in Nature - A Conversation with Earthly CEO Oliver Bolton

    06/05/2025

    43. Investing in Nature - A Conversation with Earthly CEO Oliver Bolton

    As climate ambition ramps up, one question still looms: Is net zero really enough? In this episode, we sit down with Olly Bolton, CEO and co-founder of Earthly, a climate tech company helping businesses invest in high-quality, science-backed nature-based solutions. Earthly isn’t just another carbon offset platform — it’s building the infrastructure for regeneration. Through a rigorous 106-point project assessment, Earthly ensures that investments go beyond carbon to also deliver on biodiversity and social impact. Only 8% of projects pass their standards, which tells you something about the state of the market — and the need for reform. We explore: Why net zero is no longer the end goal — and what needs to come next The emerging market for biodiversity credits How Earthly is helping rebuild trust in climate action What “We are nature” really means in a business context The role of future generations in shaping the mission behind Earthly If you're working in sustainability, regeneration, or climate strategy — or if you're simply asking what actually works — this is a conversation worth tuning into. Check further shownotes in our Blog SustainNOW.ch

    45 min
  2. 42. The Future of Carbon Removal: Is the hype gone? Discussion with co-founder of remove - Marian Krüger

    05/01/2025

    42. The Future of Carbon Removal: Is the hype gone? Discussion with co-founder of remove - Marian Krüger

    In this conversation, Friederike and Marian Krüger delve into the intersection of climate technology and entrepreneurship, exploring Marian's journey from a background in basketball to becoming a key player in the carbon removal space. They discuss the founding of a drone-based photovoltaic diagnostic company, the lessons learned from its exit, and the transition to focusing on carbon dioxide removal (CDR) methods. The conversation highlights the importance of various CDR technologies, the potential of the Global South in carbon removal, and the market dynamics surrounding this emerging industry. We also touch on the implications of political changes and the future of carbon removal in the context of sustainability and profitability, the evolving landscape of impact companies and the challenges faced by startups in the carbon removal sector. Check out more shownotes on website www.sustainnow.ch

    58 min
  3. 41. What is the current state of Clean Energy in USA? Discussion with President of Clean Choice Energy - Zoë Gamble

    04/10/2025

    41. What is the current state of Clean Energy in USA? Discussion with President of Clean Choice Energy - Zoë Gamble

    In this engaging conversation, Friederike von Waldenfels speaks with Zoe Gamble about the pressing transition to clean energy, exploring Zoe's unique career path, the current landscape of renewable energy in the U.S., and the challenges and trends shaping the industry. They discuss community solar projects, the role of Clean Choice Energy, and reflect on the experiences of women in the energy sector, culminating in a forward-looking perspective on achieving net zero by 2050.

    48 min
  4. 40. Profitable sustainability with AI - all just Buzzwords? - Interview with Ferolabs co-founder Berk Birand

    03/27/2025

    40. Profitable sustainability with AI - all just Buzzwords? - Interview with Ferolabs co-founder Berk Birand

    In this episode ⁠Berk Birand⁠ discusses the intersection of AI and sustainability, sharing his journey from a young tech enthusiast to the co-founder of ⁠Fero Labs⁠. He highlights the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of integrating AI into manufacturing processes, and the evolving role of sustainability in industry. Berk emphasizes the need for companies to adapt to changing market conditions and the potential of AI to drive efficiency and reduce environmental impact. In this conversation, Berk Birand discusses the role of AI in creating a sustainable future, addressing the dual nature of AI in the labor market, and the importance of human-AI collaboration. He reflects on the historical impact of automation on the workforce, the limitations of current AI technology, and the significance of explainable AI in industrial settings. The discussion also covers the focus areas of his company, the importance of sustainability in attracting investors, and the lessons learned from enterprise sales. Hosted by Tech Entrepreneur ⁠Friederike von Waldenfels⁠Check out further details on ⁠sustainnow.ch⁠⁠⁠& our ⁠socials ⁠

    56 min
  5. 39: Financing agriculture on big scale by using regenerative farming - Francisco Roque de Pinho, founder of the Land Group

    02/06/2025

    39: Financing agriculture on big scale by using regenerative farming - Francisco Roque de Pinho, founder of the Land Group

    In this episode we focus on Regenerative agriculture, which presents a transformative approach to combating climate change while enhancing the soil's health.⁠ Francisco Roque de Pinho⁠ shares insights into how ⁠the Land Group⁠ scales regenerative practices for financial and environmental benefits, while also intertwining his passion for surfing and resilience with his entrepreneurial journey.  In this episode we address:  • Exploration of regenerative agriculture and its significance • Discussion of the Land Group's mission and investment model • Challenges of scaling regenerative practices • Financial mechanics of transitioning to sustainable operations • Carbon capture opportunities through livestock management • Overcoming barriers in capital and education for better practices • Crop management strategies within regenerative frameworks • Connection between big-wave surfing lessons and business resilience • The importance of profitability alongside environmental impact Credits: Intro music by ⁠Oleksandr Stepanov⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠Intro voice Wondercraft.ai/studioEditing by Maria Elena Escalona Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.chIdeas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

    49 min
  6. 38: From Oil Industry Insider to Environmental Champion: Curtis Shuck's Mission to Plug Abandoned Wells

    01/14/2025

    38: From Oil Industry Insider to Environmental Champion: Curtis Shuck's Mission to Plug Abandoned Wells

    Curtis E. Shuck Jr., a former oil and gas industry insider, stumbled upon a pressing environmental crisis that changed his life's course. Discover how his unexpected encounter with orphaned oil and gas wells in Montana ignited the birth of the Well Done Foundation, a nonprofit tackling these hazardous sites one well at a time. Curtis's journey from industry "bad guy" to environmental champion is a testament to the power of grassroots innovation and the relentless pursuit of environmental restoration. Tune in as we illuminate the Well Done Foundation's remarkable expansion across 16 states, driven by the passion of hundreds of volunteers and a core team. Learn how this dedicated group has successfully plugged 47 wells and ventured into the carbon credit market to fund their noble cause. This episode sheds light on the intricate dance of collaboration with landowners, regulatory bodies, and the oil and gas sector to address the abandoned well crisis, highlighting the importance of responsible energy practices in combating climate change. We delve into the complexities of measuring methane emissions and the groundbreaking methodologies the foundation has developed for carbon credit certification. Curtis shares the logistics of well plugging and the crucial role transparency plays in the voluntary carbon market. As the Well Done Foundation looks to expand its impact, Curtis discusses the potential of carbon finance programs to further their mission, offering a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future. Join us as we explore how determination and innovation can overcome even the most daunting environmental challenges. Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.chIdeas for a podcast episode? Please contact us here: fvw@forestrock.ch

    43 min
  7. 37: Anna Alex's Quest for Purpose-Driven Business Models - Dive into the Anna's story and her new venture Nala.Earth

    11/07/2024

    37: Anna Alex's Quest for Purpose-Driven Business Models - Dive into the Anna's story and her new venture Nala.Earth

    Today, we're thrilled to have Anna Alex, a serial entrepreneur and visionary, as our guest. Anna has co-founded and scaled several successful companies, including Outfittery, Planetly, and now Nala Earth. Her journey is a testament to her passion for innovation and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on our planet. As Anna herself puts it, "We need to overcome this nonprofit for-profit idea and split in our heads." → can you get this quote out of the podcast?  In this episode, we'll explore Anna's entrepreneurial journey, delve into the challenges and triumphs of building climate-focused startups, and discuss the critical role of technology in addressing the biodiversity crisis. Join us as we uncover the inspiring story of Anna Alex and her mission to create a more sustainable world.

    47 min
  8. 36: Cracking Methane Emissions: A Seaweed Solution for Cattle

    09/02/2024

    36: Cracking Methane Emissions: A Seaweed Solution for Cattle

    In this episode of Sustain Now, we dive into an innovative solution to combat one of the most pressing environmental issues: methane emissions from livestock. The guest, Steve Meller, CEO and Co-founder of CH4 Global, takes us on a journey of discovering how seaweed can significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle. Founded in 2018, CH4 Global is on a mission to tackle methane—a greenhouse gas with more than 80 times the warming potential of CO2 over 20 years. Methane is primarily emitted by livestock, especially cattle, through their digestive process known as enteric fermentation. CH4 Global has developed a groundbreaking feed supplement using red seaweed (Asparagopsis) that, when added in small amounts to cattle feed, can reduce methane emissions by up to 90%. This solution is backed by scientific research from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) and others, showing its incredible potential to curb the climate impact of livestock farming. The episode also delves into CH4 Global's journey, from the launch of their first product, Methane Tamer™ Beef Feedlot, in April 2023, to the company's ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions at gigatonne scale by 2030. Steve shares insights into the challenges and opportunities the company faces, as they work to scale up seaweed production to meet global demand. With a $47 million investment backing their efforts, CH4 Global is making strides in producing and processing Asparagopsis efficiently, aiming to help farmers reduce emissions and tackle climate change head-on. The episode covers pivotal moments in Steve's entrepreneurial journey, including insights on entrepreneurship later in life, the challenges of scaling a business, and the loneliness of running a startup. Steve reflects on his experiences and how mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs can play a critical role in guiding younger startups. We also explore the global methane challenge and the importance of focusing on this potent greenhouse gas, especially with initiatives like the 2021 Global Methane Pledge. Despite increased international efforts, more innovation is needed in agriculture to address methane emissions. CH4 Global’s solution is one of the many important tools required to mitigate the effects of climate change. Join us as we discuss the science, challenges, and future of CH4 Global’s seaweed-based solution to methane emissions in livestock, and how such innovations offer hope for solving the climate crisis. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on nature-based solutions and entrepreneurship that could reshape the future of sustainable agriculture. Key Topics: 03:00 - How did you become interested in cow burps and farts? 05:00 - Pivotal moments in the development of CH4 Global. 09:11 - Entrepreneurship at a later stage in life. 11:58 - The challenges and loneliness of entrepreneurship. 17:05 - Scaling up seaweed production for agriculture. 23:45 - Learning the challenges of growing seaweed. 28:12 - Introduction to CH4 Global’s seaweed feed additive. 32:44 - Cost-effective methods for growing and processing seaweed. 37:13 - Achieving a 70% reduction in methane emissions. 42:25 - The problem of methane emissions and the solution. 49:14 - CH4 Global’s goal for gigaton-scale reductions by 2030. 54:53 - Hope for solving the climate crisis.

    55 min
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About

SustainNOW interviews entrepreneurs and scientists on innovative climate solutions in sectors like agriculture, investing, carbon sequestration, and much more. Hosted by Friederike von Waldenfels, a tech entrepreneur and climate enthusiast, the podcast raises awareness and inspires action among entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals, encouraging a hopeful and engaged approach to solving the climate crisis. Our Vision: "To dig deeper in finding climate solutions." Our Mission: "Interviewing founders and experts to find solutions (not only problems)." Lets connect, learn and collaborate!

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