In this episode of The Ethical Futurist podcast, hosts James Taylor and Alison Burns engage in an insightful conversation with Hande Akdede Erbay, the market leader for IBM Sustainability Software in the Middle East and Africa. With over 20 years of experience in the technology industry, Hande shares her expertise on sustainability, ESG, and the pivotal role of AI and data in driving sustainable initiatives. This episode covers the essential elements of building a sustainable future, IBM’s significant projects, and the personal journey that fuels Hande's passion for creating positive societal impact through technology.

Key Takeaways:

1. Integrating AI into Sustainability: IBM’s use of AI to accelerate sustainability journeys and manage large-scale environmental data.

2. IBM Sustainability Accelerator: A social impact program dedicated to enhancing nonprofit and government initiatives with advanced technologies.

3. Skill Building for Sustainability: The importance of equipping individuals with green skills through platforms like IBM SkillBuild.

4. Economic Impact of Sustainability: How sustainable practices can reduce costs, increase brand value, and attract investments.

5. Customized Sustainability Roadmaps: The need for industry-specific strategies to address carbon emissions effectively.

6. Holistic Approach to Sustainability: The critical role of comprehensive, data-driven strategies in achieving sustainability goals.

Quotes:

1. "Sustainability starts as an ethical discussion but quickly becomes an economic discussion." - Hande Akdede Erbay

2. "Without data and AI, sustainability is not actionable, not trackable, not achievable." - Hande Akdede Erbay

3. "I dream of a world that produces and consumes respectfully, ensuring no one is left behind." - Hande Akdede Erbay

Timestamps:

1. 0:00 - Introduction by James Taylor and Alison Burns

2. 1:16 - Overview of topics covered in the podcast

3. 3:03 - Hande Akdede Erbay’s introduction and background

4. 3:14 - Current trends and importance of sustainability

5. 4:08 - IBM’s accomplishments in sustainability

6. 5:56 - Building a sustainability roadmap for organizations

7. 8:10 - The role of IBM SkillBuild in developing green skills

8. 10:33 - Multi-dimensional challenges in sustainability

9. 11:56 - The hardest part of Hande’s job

10. 13:52 - Personal sustainability journey and aha moments

11. 15:39 - Recommended resources for sustainability

12. 17:17 - Vision for an ethical and sustainable world

13. 17:54 - How to connect with IBM and Hande Akdede Erbay

For more details and to connect with Hande Akdede Erbay, visit IBM or follow her on LinkedIn. To explore more about The Ethical Futurists, visit theethicalfuturist.com.