In this episode, we dive into the concept of the circular economy, exploring how it differs from the traditional linear model and why it’s essential for a sustainable future. From understanding the role of design in extending product lifecycles to discovering innovative companies like Loop by Terracycle and Herman Miller, we highlight real-world examples of circularity in action.

Key differences between the linear and circular economies:

• Linear Economy: Us humans have adopted a linear approach that maximizes profits without paying the true costs. (Short term profit, no real thought of the long term implications)
• Circular Economy: Nature shows us the way with a circular approach, where everything goes back into the earth to feed the next cycle, maximizing the life cycle of products. (There is a )
• Linear Economy: Waste equals waste.
• Circular Economy: Waste equals food for the next step in the cycle.
• Linear Economy: Design prioritizes customer needs, usability, and appealing packaging.
• Circular Economy: Design prioritizes recycling, easy repair and replacement of components, and ultimately, a product's full lifecycle.

Links from the episodes:

Ellen MacArthur Foundation

The Story of stuff by Annie Leonard

Patagonia

The Shitthropocene | Full Film | Welcome to the Age of Cheap Crap

Nudie Jeans

Rent Runway

ThredUp

Shop Retold

Fairphone

Plaine Products

Loop by Terracycle

Herman Miller

Cradle to Cradle

“The circular economy reimagines waste as a resource, driving sustainability by keeping products and materials in use and regenerating nature.”

Image Source: Final Straw

In this episode, I am thrilled to return after a brief hiatus to share some exciting personal and professional updates. I recently graduated with a post-grad degree in Environmental Science, making the Dean's List, and am now diving into a Master's in Sustainable Design with a focus on transforming sustainability in the pet industry as well as a Masters in Environmental Science. I also proudly attended my Australian Citizenship ceremony and embarked on training for my first ultra marathon. Additionally, our family has decided to call Dubai home once again, and I am recording this episode from my brand-new green room, excited to test out some new setups.

During this episode, we discuss the importance of community, especially in transient cities like Dubai. Reflecting on my recent experiences and studies, I delve into the role of community in fostering resilience and support. Highlighting the inspiring work of past guest Shani Graham and her TED Talks on building and sustaining community, I explore various ways to get involved, from Buy Nothing groups to community gardens. I encourage listeners to find or start local initiatives, emphasizing that every small step counts towards making a positive impact. Join me as we reconnect and rediscover the power of community in driving sustainability and personal growth.

Links from the episodes:

136: Why building a resilient and connected community is important for a sustainable future with Shani Graham

Take a street and build a community: Shani Graham at TEDxPerth

Resilience in turbulent times? The answer is community. | Shani Graham | TEDxPerth

178: Sailing the waves of change a conversation with Captain Paul Watson

Free Captain Paul Watson

Bob Brown Foundation

Key Take Away

“There are so many different ways how we can step up or step in and join a community. ”

In this episode, we talk to Briege Whitehead. She is the Founder and Creative Director of White Spark Pictures, driven by a passion for storytelling. Through her innovative work in film, she inspires change and elevates environmental awareness. A critically acclaimed director and executive producer, she has spearheaded numerous projects, including 'Impossible Planet' and 'Beyond the Milky Way.' Notably, her groundbreaking VR hit, 'The Antarctica Experience,' earned her the Channel 7’s Western Australian Young Achiever of the Year Award. Other awards include the 40under40 winner (2020), former SPA (Screen Producers Australia) 'One-to-Watch,' and the winner of the 2020 ECU International Alumni Award.

During this episode, we discussed how the origins of her sustainable journey intertwined storytelling with environmental advocacy, emphasizing the importance of factual content. We also delved into her groundbreaking VR project, 'The Antarctica Experience,' and explored some exciting new projects she has in the pipeline.

Links from the episodes:

White Spark Pictures Programmes

Where can people find Briege?

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Website

Key Take Away

“You take it for granted when it is in your own backyard”