Changing Conversations Podcast

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Changing Conversations connects you to the ideas shaping tomorrow. Join SGS experts and industry leaders as we unpack some of the megatrends redefining our world: sustainability, supply chain resilience, digital trust and evolving regulations. Each episode delivers clarity on complex challenges and explores bold solutions that create impact and drive innovation. Tune in for actionable insights and forward-thinking perspectives. Knowledge matters when you need to be sure.

  1. JAN 1

    Understanding renewable fuels and the role of testing

    Did you know a single ASTM D‑6866 lab test can verify the biogenic content of a fuel—and help turn decarbonization goals into real operational decisions? As global energy markets shift toward sustainability, this session brings together industry experts from SGS, SGS Beta and Beta Analytic to clarify the differences between biofuels and renewable fuels, highlight emerging market and regulatory trends and explain how ASTM D6866 testing underpins fuel quality control and credible claims. You’ll hear how testing supports incentives and compliance (RFS, LCFS, Canada CFR, EU RED), real‑world collaborations, and practical steps for sending samples to SGS Beta and SGS Vallejo laboratories. What you’ll learn: • Spot the difference: biodiesel (FAME) vs renewable diesel (hydrotreated isoparaffins)—what it means for cold‑flow, cetane, lubricity and drop‑in use • Verify what’s in your tank: how ASTM D6866 and companion FAME testing confirm biogenic content and reduce greenwashing risk (typical ±3% uncertainty, ~1 mL sample)  • Navigate policy & value: align testing cadence (often quarterly) with programs like RFS/LCFS to unlock credits, improve carbon intensity and support decarbonization • Operate with confidence: use OCM diagnostics, good sampling practices and proactive lab partnerships to prevent contamination and engine issues.Featuring:  • Mindy Villalba (SGS North America, Oil Condition Monitoring)  • Haley Gershon (SGS Beta)  • Benjamin Kling (Beta Analytic) If this episode helped clarify your renewable fuels strategy, subscribe and leave a review to support the show—and explore testing resources and submissions at betalabservices.com.

    40 min

  2. 12/18/2025

    Unlocking the full ROI of technology investments

    Are your ERP, automation, or AI investments failing to deliver the ROI you expected? You’re not alone and the reason isn’t the software. In this episode, experts from Carpedia International, a new member of the SGS family, reveal why technology often underdelivers and what leaders must do to turn tools into measurable results. What you’ll learn: Why ERP fails when inputs are unstable or systems overfit volatilityHow AI amplifies discipline but exposes weak processesThe myth that tech alone transforms businessesWhy operational behaviors (not software) drive successA proven roadmap: Optimize → Install → Sustain.Don’t let your tech spend become sunk cost. Subscribe now, share this episode, and join the conversation on driving real ROI.#DigitalTransformation #TechROI #ERP #AILeadership #OperationalExcellence

    48 min

  3. 12/04/2025

    Charting the cause: Striving for positive impact on our oceans

    In this episode we dive into a story of purpose-driven partnership that connects high-performance endurance, cutting-edge science and corporate sustainability leadership. SGS is proud to sponsor 44west, a team preparing to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in The World’s Toughest Row. Their mission? To raise funds for rrreefs, an impact-driven organization restoring coral reefs and marine biodiversity at scale. This conversation explores how trust, teamwork and aligned values can create ripple effects far beyond the finish line, driving real change for our oceans. Join three inspiring voices: - Matthias Fernandez, 44west crew member and materials scientist, shares what it takes to perform under extreme conditions and why resilience matters for sustainability. -Dr. Ulrike Pfreundt, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of rrreefs, explains why coral reefs are critical to ocean health and how science-backed innovation is restoring ecosystems worldwide. - João Silva Rodrigues, Head of Global Biosciences Centre of Excellence at SGS, reveals how biosciences expertise turns sustainability ambition into measurable action for organizations globally. What you’ll take away: Insights into the preparation and mindset behind one of the world’s most demanding endurance challenges.Why coral reefs are essential for ocean health and how rrreefs is scaling restoration through science and innovation.How SGS leverages biosciences and global expertise to help businesses achieve sustainability goals with measurable impact.Ready to be inspired? Listen to the episode now and discover how trust, teamwork and science can power the future of sustainability and how your organization can be part of the change.

    47 min

  4. 11/20/2025

    Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure

    Cybersecurity in Critical Infrastructure is no longer optional, it’s an urgent priority for governments, energy providers, and critical sectors worldwide. In this special Cybersecurity Month episode, we dive deep into the escalating risks facing critical infrastructure security, from ransomware and supply chain attacks to insider threats and IoT vulnerabilities. Our expert panel reveals why resilience is the cornerstone of operational continuity and national security. Join SGS experts Willy Fabritius, Ramesh Venkatesan, and Swaminathan D as they unpack the complexities of IT/OT integration, a necessity for efficiency but also a major vulnerability. Discover how organizations can bridge these environments without expanding their attack surface, and why governance, segmentation, and zero-trust principles are essential for reducing risk. (00:00:45)- Introduction (00:02:34)- Cybersecurity Month and the importance of protecting national infrastructure (00:04:25)- The most pressing cyber risks facing critical infrastructure in the GCC/Middle East (00:06:21)- Audience question: Which area poses the biggest cybersecurity risk to your sector today? (add your answers in the comments) (00:06:55)- How are nation-states and organizations addressing growing threats like ransomware, supply chain attacks, and insider risks? (00:11:50)- Examples of the Cyber challenges in those areas (00:15:29)- Why is IT/OT integration both a necessity and a vulnerability? (00:19:07)- Case examples from utilities, energy, and transport (00:24:53)- How can standards and frameworks reduce complexity? (00:28:16)- What unique benefits does ISO/IEC 27019 bring to the energy and utilities sector (00:32:11)- How can organizations adopt international standards while aligning with local regulations (00:35:45)- What a governance and leadership role looks like in cybersecurity resilience? (00:38:41)- Importance of regular risk assessments, incident response, and employee training (00:43:00)- Public-private collaboration for regional resilience (00:45:20)- Poll and Q&A (00:48:55)- How to minimize security risk as an employee (00:49:30)- SGS’s role in supporting organizations with cybersecurity certification and training

    53 min

  5. 10/23/2025

    Sustainable transport, smart logistics: winning with ISO 14083

    How can transport and logistics companies cut their carbon footprint while meeting new climate standards? In this episode, discover how ISO 14083 is transforming GHG reporting and decarbonization across supply chains. Experts Paula Gomez, Dr. Aditya Gupta, and Andrea Rodicio unpack the challenges of measuring greenhouse gas emissions, adopting greener technologies, and turning climate goals into competitive advantage. Plus, learn how SGS’s IMPACT NOW portfolio supports businesses in advancing climate, circularity, nature, and ESG assurance. Tune in to lead the change in sustainable transport and logistics. (00:01:53)- Introduction (00:03:18)- IMPACT NOW for Sustainability (00:04:53)- Audience Poll (add your response below) (00:06:00)- Why it is important to cut emissions in carbon and logistics? (00:07:07)- Major challenges for transport and logistics decarbonization and what are the specific challenges India is facing in this sector (00:10:30)- What is this ISO 14083 standard, why is it relevant and who should use it (00:12:34)- What are the requirements for companies to comply with the standard (00:14:48)- Development of an ISO 14083 aligned accounting platform (00:17:26)- The alignment with other existing GHG emissions accounting frameworks (00:18:40)- Why should companies go through a verification process? What are the benefits? (00:20:21)- How can companies, both shippers and logistics providers, especially in markets like India, begin adopting ISO 14083 in a practical way without perceiving it as a burden? (00:22:05)- What are the initial steps a company should take to adopt and implement the standard? (00:24:20)- What else can a company do to reduce transport and logistics emissions in their value chain? (00:26:53)- Closing remarks in working with SGS (00:29:42)- Q&A

    38 min

  6. 09/09/2025

    Recycled content: trends and practices across industries

    Recycled content is no longer just a “nice to have”, it’s becoming a critical pillar of every sustainability strategy. As global regulations tighten and consumer expectations rise, manufacturers, brands, and supply chain partners are under growing pressure to adopt circular practices that can be independently verified and trusted. But how can businesses navigate challenges like waste stream management, contamination, and scalability while ensuring transparency and avoiding greenwashing? In this SGS Live expert discussion, we explore the essential role of recycled content in driving the circular economy. Our experts, Eric Wang and Awa HE, bring decades of experience in sustainability, certification, and standards development to help you understand the regulatory landscape and what it means for your business today. You’ll gain practical insights into supply chain transparency, independent verification, and innovative digital traceability tools that are reshaping sustainable manufacturing. Plus, we’ll take a forward-looking view at how recycled content adoption will evolve in the next five years, and what companies must do to stay ahead. Whether you’re a manufacturer, brand owner, or sustainability professional, this episode offers clear guidance and actionable strategies to move from commitments to verifiable action. Listen now to discover how recycled content can strengthen your sustainability strategy and accelerate your role in the circular economy. 👉 Tune in today and join the conversation on turning recycled content into measurable impact. (00:00:23)- Introduction (00:02:13)- Can you tell me a little about why is circularity and specifically the use of recycled content, becoming a critical focus across industries today? (00:06:45)- What regulatory pressures or voluntary standards are currently shaping how industries approach recycled content? (00:09:57)- How do you see independent verification and certification helping businesses navigate the complexity of these regulations? (00:12:42)- Greenwashing has been a concern in sustainability claims: how important is independent validation to ensure credibility with consumers and regulators? (00:20:50)- What role does transparency and traceability across the entire supply chain play in meeting both compliance requirements and stakeholder expectations? (00:26:03)- What are the biggest obstacles the industry faces when integrating recycled content at scale? (00:30:47)- How can cross-supply-chain collaboration help overcome these obstacles? (00:35:44)- What innovations & Solutions, whether in design, technology, or business models are enabling greater use of recycled content? (00:41:58)- Q&A (00:47:15)- What would success in recycled content adoption look like and how do we get there from today’s reality?

    53 min

  7. 07/22/2025

    Circular Economy in apparel: A sustainable step forward

    Are your sustainability efforts keeping pace with regulation, innovation, and customer expectations? Circularity is no longer a buzzword, it's a business imperative. But for many apparel and footwear leaders, turning intent into impact is still a complex journey. In this SGS Live Replay, we cut through the noise and offer real-world answers to the most urgent question facing the industry today. You’ll hear from two leading experts at SGS who are driving change across global supply chains: Valérie Cimetiere, Global Softlines Expert and active member of the European Committee for Standardization Dr. Min Zhu, Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations for Softlines, SGS Connectivity & Products, US and Canada, with two decades of experience in research, development, manufacturing and implementation within the global textile supply chain, she actively contributes to industry standards as a member of AATCC, ASTM, AAFA and other global organizations Whether you're a sustainability lead, sourcing manager, or brand executive, this episode gives you the tools, and confidence, to take the next step forward. 👉 Listen now to discover how your brand can stay competitive, credible, and compliant in a circular economy. (00:00:32)- Introduction (00:01:48)- What does “circular fashion” mean in practical terms? (00:02:43)- How close are we to achieving it in the textile and footwear industries? (00:04:31)- How does Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) help us understand the real environmental impact of a garment or shoe? (00:05:38)- Current limitations for LCA (00:06:45)- The EU is pushing for Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) and PEFCR implementation. How do these differ from other sustainability tools like the Higg Index or cradle-to-cradle certification? (00:10:35)- Microplastics from synthetic textiles are a growing concern. How can brands reduce their contribution, and what role does regulation play here? (00:12:56)- Durability is often cited as a key pillar of circularity. But how can we objectively measure it? (00:16:16)- Greenwashing is rampant in fashion. What standards or metrics do you trust most when assessing if a brand’s sustainability claims are credible? (00:18:27)- What are the biggest challenges brands face when trying to transition from a linear to a circular model, especially in terms of supply chains and product design? (00:20:48)- How do digital tools — like digital product passports or environmental footprint labels — help enable transparency and accountability in fashion? (00:22:00)- What role do consumers play in driving change toward circularity, and how can they meaningfully assess a product’s environmental footprint? (00:23:06)- Audience's poll (answer below!) (00:25:05)- Looking ahead five years, what key innovations or policy changes do you believe will define the next stage of sustainable fashion? (00:27:45)- Q&A (00:34:57)- Where members of our audience can start with their own sustainability journey in the apparel sector? Find out more info on our IMPACT NOW for sustainability offering: IMPACT NOW for sustainability | SGS

    37 min

  8. 07/01/2025

    Building Trust and Transparency in the Hydrogen Industry

    As hydrogen becomes a cornerstone of the EU’s decarbonization agenda, trust, traceability, and credible certification are essential to ensure its sustainable future. In this episode, SGS experts explore how robust certification frameworks, such as CertifHy, RSB, and ISCC EU, are helping to shape a transparent and reliable green hydrogen market across Europe. You’ll gain valuable insight into how certification supports regulatory alignment, stakeholder confidence, and long-term climate goals. Tune in to learn: The latest on EU hydrogen strategies and the Renewable Energy Directive How CertifHy and other schemes are driving credible certification The role SGS plays in supporting clients across the hydrogen value chain Whether you're involved in sustainability, energy policy, or industrial innovation, this episode offers practical guidance on navigating hydrogen certification with clarity and confidence. Featuring: Francesca Cerchia, Global Head of Climate Solutions Climate expert with 20+ years of experience in GHG emissions, carbon markets, and net-zero strategies. Bhaveshkumar Prajapati, Global Technical Director Specialist in sustainability certifications and ISO standards with 14+ years in climate-related verification. David Kenarsari, Global Key Accounts Development Manager Renewable energy strategist with deep expertise in hydrogen, offshore wind, and international market development. (00:00:21)- Introduction (00:02:14)- Impact Now (00:03:04)- Poll for the audience (00:03:49)- EU’s plan of decarbonization (00:10:12)- Major challenges for EU’s decarbonization (00:12:43)- Hydrogen Terminology (00:15:32)- Hydrogen certification (00:18:13)- Clean technologies focused on the decarbonization goal of EU (00:20:30)- Key certification or compliance challenges hydrogen project developers and OEMs face today (00:25:00)- Pre-certification process in CertifHy (00:28:36)- Technical features of hydrogen schemes (00:34:55)- Leading H2 certification schemes supporting EU’s decarbonization (00:37:19)- How critical is certification in securing offtake agreements or accessing regulated hydrogen markets, especially within the EU? (00:39:52)- How are OEMs and operators preparing for the shift toward verified green hydrogen supply chains, and what role can independent assurance play in derisking those efforts? (00:42:49)- Q&A (00:45:14)- Impact Now takeaways(00:46:22)- Progress in their respective areas Find out more info on our IMPACT NOW for sustainability offering: IMPACT NOW for sustainability | SGS

    52 min
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Changing Conversations connects you to the ideas shaping tomorrow. Join SGS experts and industry leaders as we unpack some of the megatrends redefining our world: sustainability, supply chain resilience, digital trust and evolving regulations. Each episode delivers clarity on complex challenges and explores bold solutions that create impact and drive innovation. Tune in for actionable insights and forward-thinking perspectives. Knowledge matters when you need to be sure.

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