Straight Talking Sustainability

Emma Burlow
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Welcome to Straight Talking Sustainability! I'm your host, Emma Burlow. If you're feeling lost in all the sustainability talk or struggling to see real results in your business, this podcast is for you. We’ll clear up the confusion and focus on practical, straightforward actions that actually work. Join me as I talk with experts, share real-world stories, and tackle the common roadblocks that stop businesses from making progress. This is all about making sustainability easier and sharing what truly makes a difference. Let’s keep it simple, effective, and make sustainability stick!

  1. 3d ago

    From Collecting Data to Successful Net Zero Strategy – with Louise Rehbinder, COO Exponential Roadmap Initiative

    This episode explores how businesses can bridge the gap between setting net zero targets and actually achieving them, moving from data collection to actionable strategies. Emma Burlow is joined by Louise Rehbinder, who delves into the Exponential Roadmap Initiative’s Five Pillars framework and its essential role in forming resilient, actionable net zero strategies for businesses of all sizes. The Target-Action Gap: Many companies have ambitious net zero goals, but employees are often unclear on how to achieve them. This episode discusses concrete ways to close that gap (Emma Burlow 00:01:19). Intro to Exponential Roadmap Initiative: Louise Rehbinder explains the organization’s mission, straddling think-tank and consultancy, and how they support corporates with up-to-date climate action guidance (Louise Rehbinder 00:02:16). The Five Pillars Explained: The Exponential Business Playbook is structured around five key pillars: Reducing a company’s own emissions (Scope 1 and 2)Value chain emissions (Scope 3: upstream, downstream, suppliers, customers, products)Providing solutions that replace high-emission practicesEnabling mechanisms: finances and investmentPolicy and social narrative for systemic change (Louise Rehbinder 00:07:59 – 00:10:22) Applicability to Small Businesses: The playbook isn’t just for big corporates; it is designed to be accessible, with free tools like SME Climate Hub for smaller organizations (Louise Rehbinder 00:04:42). Moving Beyond Data Collection: The importance of balancing effort between getting accurate carbon accounting and actually implementing actions. Companies can make significant progress with available data without waiting for perfection (Louise Rehbinder 00:19:18). Strategic vs. Operational Approaches: How the playbook helps elevate climate action from operational and compliance-driven steps to integral parts of business strategy (Louise Rehbinder 00:33:18; Emma Burlow 00:33:25). Practical Examples & Industry Leadership: Some members use the playbook as the basis for company-wide strategy, particularly advanced IT, finance, or sustainability-led firms. Case studies include companies enabling broader systemic change, such as Stegra (Green Steel) and Unilever’s policy engagement (Louise Rehbinder 00:34:43–00:37:05). Memorable Quotes“Knowing your numbers does not reduce your emissions. …You need to also actually do the activities.” – Louise Rehbinder 00:17:52“Climate is just one aspect that comes into play—something that will happen eventually. And it is about competitiveness for the companies.” – Louise Rehbinder 00:32:38 Resources MentionedExponential Business PlaybookSME Climate Hub TakeawaysThe Five Pillars approach helps businesses systematically move from targets to tangible climate action.Action and influence (Pillars 3, 4, and 5) are as crucial as accurate reporting (Pillars 1 and 2).Tools and frameworks are freely available and can serve as “handholders” for sustainability teams at any stage.Download the Exponential Roadmap Playbook: Exponential Roadmap WebsiteConnect with Louise Rebinder via LinkedIn or through the Roadmap Initiative.More about the podcast and previous episodes: lighthouse-sustainability.co.uk Subscribe and leave a review to help others find Straight Talking Sustainability! Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

    From Collecting Data to Successful Net Zero Strategy – with Louise Rehbinder, COO Exponential Roadmap Initiative

  2. Aug 24

    Are you a Lurker?… plus an Update from STS & Lighthouse

    Emma returns post-surgery with updates on Straight Talking Sustainability (STS) and Lighthouse Sustainability. She addresses current sustainability fatigue and the importance of moving beyond passive "lurking" online to taking action. The episode previews upcoming guests, reflects on the impact of community support and trainer development at Lighthouse, and shares ways listeners can get involved and stay motivated. Sustainability Fatigue & The Need for ActionMany feel despair and fatigue about climate discourse right now (01:15).Emma Berlow calls out the issue of “lurking” on social media instead of participating and emphasizes that wars are not won by lurking (04:22).Upcoming episodes will tackle climate denial and focus on building resilience and collective action (03:05, 03:28). Exciting Guest Line-UpLouise Rehbinder (COO, Exponential Roadmap Initiative) to discuss the revised 5 Pillars model (episode 68 referenced) (05:28).Sarah Mukherjee (CEO, ISEP, formerly IEMA) shares results from the State of the Environment Survey and job market trends (06:38).Jo Alexander, who transitioned from fossil fuels to sustainability (07:11).Rob Hopkins to discuss his book How to Fall in Love with the Future and potential for a podcast book list (08:05).Jessica Riches, aka the OnlyFans climate change creator, on reaching new audiences with climate messaging (08:52). Stay tuned for the 100th episode and more inspiring guest conversations! Links: Upcoming Carbon Literacy and Train the Trainer Courses Remember use Code STS50 for 50% off at checkout on Carbon Literacy Open Courses. Follow - Lighthouse Sustainability Instagram Follow - Olabode Afurewaju Instagram Bode our first sponsored Carbon Literacy Trainer describes his journey and his gratitude! The Beacon Newsletter - LinkedIn Version The Beacon Newsletter - Email Version Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

  3. Aug 16

    The Net Zero Pushback

    This week is a special compilation episode as Emma recovers from surgery. The focus: recent political and media pushback on net zero and why system-based, foundational shifts are still crucial for meaningful progress. Emma shares her own “pushback” against negative and misleading coverage, then compiles highlights from three recent solo episodes: Mind the Gap: How to Close the Target Action Gap and Turn Your Workforce into Net Zero ChampionsHow Does System Change Actually Work? 3 Rules to Accelerate Net ZeroWhat Are the 5 Pillars of Net Zero? A Simple Maturity Framework Media & Political PushbackFrustration about misleading headlines and negative news regarding net zero progress (00:00:36).Example: Criticism of public contract net zero rules, misleading stories on solar panel damage, and "gravy train" rhetoric (00:01:29). The 5 Pillars of Net Zero (00:03:28 – 00:18:29)Cutting Operational Emissions: Focus on Scope 1 & 2 emissions—what you can control immediately; “start with what you know” (00:05:58). Decarbonising the Value Chain: Scope 3 is where the big emissions are—requires supplier and customer engagement (00:07:28). Building & Scaling Solutions: Pivot business models, promote climate-efficient solutions, and embrace new opportunities (00:08:53). Mobilising Finance & Investment: “Money will drive the transition”; shift towards low-carbon investment (00:10:14). Shaping Policy and the Narrative: Don’t underestimate your influence, whether internally (staff) or across sectors (00:12:07); leading and leaving groups as signals for change (00:15:03). Systems Change & “Ambition Loops” (00:19:17 – 00:32:45)Three rules for system change: Harness ambition loops: Cycles where industry, policy, and public align for progress (00:21:09).Set exponential goals: Avoid linear target setting—plan for rapid, doubling adoption (00:26:11).Shared pathways: Collaborate across sectors to speed up change and reduce costs (00:29:47). Closing the Target-Action Gap (00:32:38 – 00:51:13)Many organizations have strong net zero targets, but little action outside sustainability teams.Importance of carbon literacy, empowering “foot soldiers,” and moving from isolated action to company-wide engagement (00:40:41).Practical task for listeners: Ask different roles in your business how confident they feel discussing net zero, to locate and bridge the confidence/action gap (00:47:41). Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

  4. Aug 9

    Turn your Out of Office into a Secret Sustainability Weapon

    In this summer episode, Emma Burlow reflects on how to communicate about sustainability in everyday work and life, inspired by an out-of-office response from Abby Chicken. Rather than overt activism, Emma Burlow suggests six subtle but powerful strategies for integrating sustainability into your communication and encouraging cultural change—without shouting from the rooftops. The 6 Significant Shifts for SummerUpdate Your Out-of-Office: Instead of a generic auto-reply, use out-of-office messages to share sustainability stories, highlight your travel choices, or express climate concerns. Abby Chicken's thoughtful message offered a great example at 01:23. Use Climate Stripes: The climate stripes graphic (from the University of Reading) visually tells the story of rising temperatures without words. Add them to your LinkedIn banner, email footer, or as a background in meetings (08:45).LINK #ShowYourStripes Host a National Emergency Briefing Screening: Organize a viewing, either subtly for interested colleagues or as a bigger event. The National Emergency Briefing now offers workplace screenings (10:13).LINK National Emergency Briefing Get Carbon Literate: Take the “carbon literacy” training—even for sustainability professionals—to refresh knowledge and direction (11:51). Emma Burlow offers a special discount for listeners (see episode audio for details).Carbon Literacy Training - Lighthouse SustainabilityUse Code STS50 for 50% off individual Carbon Literacy training places on our Open courses in 2026. Role Modelling: Share and normalize sustainable habits like walking, cycling, taking the train, or eating vegan—even just mentioning them helps shift culture (14:14). Share Your Everyday Actions: Highlight any sustainable or community-oriented activities such as repairing items, using a tool library, or swapping clothes (18:14). Small “Trojan mice” nudges can be more powerful than grand gestures. Key Quotes“Small “Trojan mice” nudges can be more powerful than grand gestures."“Facts and evidence don't move people. Peer pressure and feeling part of a tribe is what moves people.” — Emma Burlow 16:04 Call to ActionTry one (or more) of the six shifts above in your workplace or community.Rate and review the podcast on Spotify/Apple to help more people find it (00:44).Connect with Emma Burlow on LinkedIn, visit lighthouse-sustainability.co.uk, and subscribe to the newsletter “The Beacon.” Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

  5. Aug 2

    Change is the only constant with Elise Foster Vander Elst, The Design Museum

    In this episode, Emma sits down with Elise Foster Vander Elst from the Design Museum to discuss the significant role museums can play in driving sustainability and tackling the climate emergency. The conversation reveals how museums leverage their trusted status, how collective action sparks innovation, and how every job can contribute to meaningful environmental change. Key Topics & HighlightsRole of Environmental Impact Lead Elise Foster Vander Elst shares her dual role at the Design Museum, overseeing exhibitions and leading sustainability practices from material reduction to influencing departmental decarbonisation 01:14. Staff Numbers & Agility The Design Museum, with around 100 staff and many volunteers, is described as a “mini speedboat” able to act swiftly, unlike larger institutions 01:51. Public Expectations vs. Awareness Insights from the Act Green Survey: 77% of respondents think museums should influence on climate, but only 17% believe museums are prioritising it—highlighting a disconnect 02:58. Museums as Trusted Messengers Museums (and curators) are amongst the UK’s most trusted professions, behind only nurses, librarians, doctors, and teachers (05:40). The Power of Community and Networks Elise Foster Vander Elst describes collaborative initiatives among museums and cultural institutions, such as the South Ken Zen Network and shared sustainability programmes 08:11. Local and Sector-wide Collective Action Discussion about how locality and sector-specific approaches can accelerate change and foster information sharing 10:09. Design’s Critical Role in Climate Action Examples of museum exhibitions (e.g., Waste Age, How to Build a Low Carbon Home) and research programmes (e.g., Future Observatory, projects on eliminating single-use plastics in the NHS) 13:40. Change as a Constant Both speakers challenge the narrative that “people don’t like change” and instead frame historical and societal progress as evidence that humans continuously adapt 20:21. Addressing Imperfection and Green Hushing Elise Foster-Van der Elst introduces the concept of “green hushing,” the danger of staying silent about progress for fear of criticism, and the value of sharing both successes and mistakes for collective learning 35:12. Empowering Staff and Sharing Tools Highlights from carbon literacy training at the museum, empowering every department to engage in sustainability efforts (33:29), and the use of carbon calculators to inform decision-making 31:23. Design Museum: designmuseum.orgGallery Climate Coalition: galleryclimatecoalition.orgFuture Observatory programme: (via Design Museum)Carbon Literacy Project: carbonliteracy.com Connect & Continue the ConversationVisit the Design Museum and explore their exhibitions.Engage with your local museum on sustainability programming and events.Reach out to Emma Burlow and Elise Foster Vander Elst on LinkedIn.Share your questions and ideas for future episodes. For more insights and upcoming episodes, subscribe to Straight Talking Sustainability and sign up for the Lighthouse Sustainability newsletter, The Beacon. Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

    Change is the only constant with Elise Foster Vander Elst, The Design Museum

  6. Jul 26

    The world is literally on fire...why aren't we acting?

    In this episode, Emma Berlow dives deep into the concept of cognitive dissonance—how it impacts our response to climate emergencies, and why so many people seem immobilized or contradictory in their climate actions, especially amid heat waves and wildfires. Emma Burlow also shares personal reflections on her recent work with Innovate UK’s Battery Innovation Programme, offering listeners a sense of hope about the ambitious projects and funding happening behind the scenes, even when media headlines can feel overwhelmingly bleak. Key Topics CoveredPersonal Reflections & Recent Activities Sitting on a funding assessment panel for Innovate UK's Battery Innovation Programme, which will invest £452 million between 2026–2030Experience in the Mighty Heart course with Rhian Sherrington Cognitive Dissonance & Climate Inaction Definition and origins of cognitive dissonance (05:00)Real-life example: the Dorothy Martin “alien flood” case and what it teaches us about entrenched beliefs and resistance to changeWhy facts and evidence often fail to change minds where identity and worldview are wrapped up in old paradigms How to Spot Cognitive Dissonance Disconnection between language and action (e.g., ambitious targets without real follow-through, greenwashing) (09:26)Personal and organizational examplesImportance of authenticity and setting an example Emotional and Societal Barriers Climate anxiety vs. societal overwhelm (04:01, 15:53)Difference between apathy, stupidity, and psychological overwhelmThe importance of taking manageable, meaningful action—both micro (daily habits) and macro (community initiatives, industry change) Moving Forward: What Can You Do? Encourages listeners to have open, nonjudgmental conversations about climate impacts with colleagues outside the sustainability bubble (18:08)Questions to ask: “Are you noticing anything?” and “Is our response proportional?”Listen more than you speak to open new doors for engagement Memorable Quotes“It’s too simplistic to put this down to a spreadsheet, and a triple bottom line, or some sort of moral argument.” (07:22)“It’s not your job to fix other people. It’s your job to put the gears and levers in place.” (13:28)“If you can listen more than you talk, I promise you, you will learn something, and that might just open a door that didn’t exist before.” (19:57) Recommended ActionsName and recognize cognitive dissonance—in yourself and others—but don’t use it to shame or divide (16:00)Foster safe, open, and non-judgmental spaces for climate conversations in your community or workplaceFocus on action and agency, however small, and seek out opportunities to support or initiate positive change If you enjoyed this episode or found it useful, please share with a friend or colleague. Subscribe, rate, and review to help more people find Straight Talking Sustainability! Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

  7. Jul 19

    Repair is the new recycling with Heather Davies, Re-Action Collective

    This week, Emma Burlow is joined by Heather Davies to discuss why repair is quickly becoming the new recycling, especially in the context of sustainability and community impact. Heather Davies shares the inspiring story behind the Re-Action Collective, a growing network aimed at amplifying local repair, upcycling, and community reuse of outdoor gear. They explore how repair initiatives started at a grassroots level in ski resorts, evolved into a collective model, and now connect around 70 organizations internationally. They discuss the importance of "finding the others" — bringing together people with shared purpose to build momentum for community-led repair and circular economy practices. Key TopicsOrigins and Growth of the Reaction Collective: From a local community event to an international network supporting 70 organizations 01:29–05:00Importance of Community in Repair: Tackling loneliness, sharing skills, and the power of collective agency 06:34–09:24Skills Loss & Consumer Habits: The shift from repair to replacement explains the decline in repair knowledge and capacity 10:25–11:24Brand Initiatives: How companies like Patagonia, RAB, and Alpkit are changing the landscape of repair and where gaps remain 12:33–14:31The Case for Decentralized Repair: Heather Davis's white paper explores barriers, solutions, and the value of supporting local repairers 15:45–17:19Making Repair More Accessible: Comparing centralized brand repair vs. community/local repair shops 18:44–23:35Policy & International Perspectives: Insights from France’s right to repair policy and bonus scheme; discussion on VAT and government incentives 25:02–29:38Challenges of Scaling Repair: The current role of the third sector and the need for more support to reach greater scale 30:35–31:08Action Steps for Listeners: How to engage with local repairers or support the movement 32:32–34:37 Notable Quotes"We only really have true agency when we act collectively." — Heather Davies 05:18"If you send something off for repair and it comes back, it's very transactional. Whereas, when you build a relationship with your repairer, you value the repair more." — Heather Davies 22:27"Once you've repaired something, you're more likely to repair it again." — Heather Davies 22:47"Our goal has always been to support the people and to help them support their communities." — Heather Davies 36:56 Take ActionFind something in your home that needs repairing, and take it to a local repairer 32:32Read Heather Davies' white paper on decentralized textile repair—contact her via LinkedIn to get a copy34:35Support community repair initiatives—offer opportunities, funding, or simply help spread the word 34:37 If you enjoyed this episode, please share it, subscribe, and leave a review! Instead of a linear model (buy, use, discard)—which results in unnecessary waste, avoidable carbon emissions and rising costs for customers—Re-Action supports circular alternatives already working locally. These alternatives focus on repair and maintenance; collection, resale and redistribution; rental and sharing; upcycling and reuse; skills and knowledge exchange. By connecting and supporting the people already providing these services, Re-Action builds more visible and robust circular systems. Through her work with Re-Action, Heather has developed a particular interest in repair, identifying what she calls "the repair gap". She's finalising a white paper arguing for more decentralised repair solutions that are more resilient and benefit customers, communities and the repairers themselves. The white paper will be out soon. LInkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-davies-communicating-sustainability/ Re-Action website: https://re-action-collective.org/ Re-Action LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/re-action-collective/ Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

    Repair is the new recycling with Heather Davies, Re-Action Collective

  8. Jul 12

    The Unspeakable 'C' word

    In this episode, Emma tackles the “unspeakable C word”—climate—and explores why, even amid extreme weather and record-breaking heatwaves, there’s a widespread reluctance to talk about climate change directly. Instead, conversation often pivots to coping strategies and adaptation, neglecting the root causes and mitigation. Talking About Heat, Not Its CauseSociety focuses on the discomfort and practicalities of extreme heat, rarely acknowledging climate change as the driver 03:00.Surrendering to AdaptationCommunities and individuals are quick to find ways to adapt—air conditioning, altered routines—while skipping over discussions about how to prevent or stop escalating temperatures 07:03.Softening of Language in BusinessBusinesses are increasingly using vague terms like “responsible growth” or “sustainability” in place of “climate emergency,” often as a form of avoidance 09:32. Key TakeawaysSocially Organized Denial: Referencing sociologist Kari Norgaard, Emma Berlow describes how society keeps climate conversations abstract and disconnected from daily life and action 06:13. The Adaptation Leap: There’s been a jump to adaptation solutions at the expense of mitigation efforts. This risks making climate impacts seem inevitable and unchangeable 08:53. The Challenge for Sustainability Professionals: Emma Berlow calls on listeners to recognize avoidance—both in themselves and their organizations—and push for honest, direct conversation about climate causes and action 10:46. She urges listeners to perform a “counter move”: naming the climate issue and advocating for action where appropriate. Ripples of Change: Even small acts—like discussing climate more openly in community groups—can create positive ripples, slowly shifting what is considered normal conversation and action 17:07. Personal ChallengeSpot softened language or avoidance in conversations around heat and climate.When safe and strategic, respond with honesty about climate causes and the need for mitigation—don’t just nod along or join in the avoidance 15:31. If you found this episode useful, please share, subscribe, rate, and review. Book a Power Hour with Emma https://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hour Connect with Emma Website Email Emma Burlow | LinkedIn

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Welcome to Straight Talking Sustainability! I'm your host, Emma Burlow. If you're feeling lost in all the sustainability talk or struggling to see real results in your business, this podcast is for you. We’ll clear up the confusion and focus on practical, straightforward actions that actually work. Join me as I talk with experts, share real-world stories, and tackle the common roadblocks that stop businesses from making progress. This is all about making sustainability easier and sharing what truly makes a difference. Let’s keep it simple, effective, and make sustainability stick!

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