Mitch Ratcliffe

USEFULL, works at the forefront of a critical shift in how we approach food service sustainability. By implementing collection systems for reusable food packaging, USEFULL helps university and corporate cafeterias reduce their reliance on single-use plastics and paper packaging. Alison joins the conversation to explain her company’s trackable, tech-enabled reusable steel food containers and cups. After adopting USEFULL’s reusable system, Carleton College saw a drop in its loss rate from almost 60% to less than 1%. This achievement is part of a broader movement toward creating campus circular food service systems to cut waste and foster a broader culture of sustainability.

Meet Emily McGarvey, furniture maker and retailer Room & Board ‘s first Director of Sustainability. The company, founded in 1980, recently became an employee-owned B Corporation. Room & Board has made significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact by engaging 12,000 U.S. craftspeople to make its furniture, achieving 95% sustainable wood sourcing, including using urban wood recovered for reuse in tables and chairs and making 51% of its packaging recyclable on the path to 100% targets in 2025.

The global push for sustainability has reached a critical juncture, particularly in industries traditionally associated with high environmental impacts, such as chemical manufacturing and mining. These sectors, vital to the global economy, are also significant contributors to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. However, innovative approaches are beginning to transform how these industries operate, making sustainability not just an option but a driving force of innovation. On today’s show, you’ll meet and hear Tara Karimi, cofounder and Chief Scientific Officer of

engineer who studies the intersection of nature and technology in urban environments. Nadina developed the concept of an Internet of Nature (IoN) that uses tools like artificial intelligence, automation, and sensors to support and enhance ecosystems within cities. Nadina’s book offers a transformative perspective on how urban spaces can be reimagined in the face of climate change and sprawling development. She shares the inspiring story of the Groene Loper project in Maastricht, Netherlands, where soil sensors were deployed to monitor tree health. The results were remarkable, with trees supported by this technology growing up to three times larger than those without it. This is a powerful example of how technology can not only protect trees but also transform urban spaces into healthier, greener environments.

Diet for a Poisoned Planet, highlighted the hidden chemical dangers in our food. In his latest book, Raising Healthy Kids: Protecting Your Children from Hidden Chemical Toxins

Spout Water founder and CEO Reuben Vollmer joins the conversation to introduce a countertop water harvesting appliance, the Spout Monolith.

circular economy. Peerby connects people within neighborhoods and communities, enabling them to share items that would otherwise remain underused, such as household tools, appliances, and recreational equipment. Peerby promotes sustainable consumption by reducing the demand for new products and fosters social connections among community members. Daan launched Peerby with the belief that shared resources and connected communities could make a significant positive impact on the environment, economy, and society at large. Peerby has grown into a platform that addresses the local challenge that underlies global over-consumption and waste. We delve into Peerby’s service, the challenges and opportunities of the sharing economy, and Daan’s insights on the future of sustainable living and community-focused innovation.

. Still, many more compounds that could be harmful are introduced and used in manufacturing. These chemicals can harm our health and the environment. However, many tools for interrogating our world and the products we buy are emerging, offering insights into our lifestyles’ health and environmental impact. Meet Stephen Fuller, Senior Criteria Manager at

The 2024 U.S. election appears to be a defeat for climate regulation, but that doesn't mean it is time to give up. Double down instead.

Clean Power Hour podcast host and solar expert Tim Montague discusses the green transition and U.S. economic competitiveness.