The Ethical Futurists with James Taylor and Alison Burns

Muna Merghani of Hagar Group - Carbon Trading, Social Impact and Sustainability #011

In this enlightening episode of The Ethical Futurists Podcast, hosts James Taylor and Alison Burns interview Muna Merghani, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in humanitarian aid, development management, and corporate sustainability. Muna discusses her journey from tech to social development, her role in establishing and leading the corporate sustainability and social impact department at Haggar Group, and her passion for mentoring new startups. They delve into the complexities of carbon trading, ESG legislation, and the importance of authentic sustainability practices in the private sector. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in sustainable development and corporate social responsibility. Key Takeaways: * The creation and implementation of the "complete returns" metric at Haggar Group. * The challenges and benefits of carbon trading and how it relates to corporate sustainability. * The importance of ESG legislation and the need for genuine implementation beyond just compliance. * Muna’s perspective on developing context-specific sustainability policies. * The critical role of training and education in fostering a deeper understanding of ESG. Quotes: * "We need to make sustainability a cross-cutting issue embedded within companies." - Muna Merghani * "It's not just about reporting; it's about understanding and implementing genuine sustainability practices." - Muna Merghani * "Do no harm and live peacefully." - Muna Merghani Timestamps: * [0:00] Introduction by James Taylor and Alison Burns * Overview of the podcast’s focus on sustainability, ethics, and future trends. * [1:46] Advertisement: MENA Speakers * Information on booking sustainability and ESG speakers through MENA Speakers. * [2:31] Guest Introduction: Muna Merghani * Introduction of Muna Merghani, her background, and her roles at Haggar Group. * [2:57] Current Focus and Recent Changes * Muna discusses her recent move to Dubai and current focus on training youth in sustainability and ESG. * [4:11] Journey into Sustainability * Muna shares her transition from computer science to humanitarian aid and development, and eventually to corporate sustainability. * [5:41] Top Accomplishments at Haggar Group * Establishing the sustainability department, developing the "complete returns" metric, and engaging in carbon trading. * [8:12] Understanding Carbon Trading * Explanation of carbon credits, their implementation, and the impact on private enterprises. * [11:13] ESG Legislation and Self-Governance * Muna's insights on ESG legislation, self-governance, and the importance of genuine sustainability practices. * [16:23] Importance of Training in ESG * The need for training to move beyond compliance and ensure proper understanding and implementation of ESG. * [17:08] Aha Moments in Sustainability * Muna's experiences and realizations while developing sustainability policies and practices at Haggar Group. * [18:44] Quickfire Round: Book Recommendation * Muna recommends "Unbowed" by Wangari Maathai, highlighting the impact of one person's perseverance in tackling environmental issues. * [20:21] Podcast and Influencer Recommendations * Muna follows sustainability practitioners like Jehan Hyde and finds valuable content on LinkedIn. * [21:14] Essential Tools and Resources * Muna mentions LinkedIn as a key resource for staying updated on ESG and sustainability. * [21:45] Vision for an Ethical and Sustainable Future * Muna shares her hopes for a future with peace, justice, and freedom, led by ethical and responsible leaders. * [22:55] How to Connect with Muna * Muna primarily uses LinkedIn for professional connections and updates. Contact Information: * LinkedIn: Muna Merghani [https://linkedin.com/in/muna-merghani] Sponsors: * MENA Speakers: mena-speakers.com [https://mena-speakers.com] Additional Links: * Ethical Futurists Keynote Speaking: theethicalfuturists.com/speaking [https://theethicalfuturists.com/speaking]

David Auriau of Postive Zero - Solar Power, Clean Mobility and Decarbonisation as a Service #010

In this episode of The Ethical Futurist podcast, hosts James Taylor and Alison Burns talk with David Auriau, CEO and co-founder of Positive Zero. The discussion explores the cutting-edge strategies and technologies Positive Zero employs to help industries, businesses, and communities achieve significant reductions in carbon emissions and operating costs. David shares insights on the company’s three verticals: distributed generation, energy efficiency, and clean mobility, and their innovative 'decarbonisation as a service' model. This episode delves into the importance of long-term sustainability roadmaps, the role of AI in energy management, and the transformative impact of renewable energy. Key Takeaways: 1. Decarbonisation as a Service: How Positive Zero offers fully financed solutions with no upfront costs for clients. 2. Three Vertical Approach: Distributed generation, energy efficiency, and clean mobility as core pillars of Positive Zero's strategy. 3. Strategic Partnerships: The significance of the $400 million investment from Blackrock in supporting Positive Zero’s expansion and innovation. 4. Solar and Cooling Solutions: The potential of solar applications and the innovative cooling as a service model to enhance energy efficiency. 5. Sustainability Leadership: The importance of leadership and long-term vision in driving sustainability initiatives in the Middle East. 6. Energy Efficiency Market: The challenges and opportunities in the energy efficiency market and the need for simpler, scalable solutions. Quotes: 1. "We are experiencing an energy revolution that has the potential to improve our lives while having positive impacts on the environment, economy, and society." - David Auriau 2. "Energy efficiency should be the biggest market, but it's not, because there are frictions in the system." - David Auriau 3. "Our job is to take the complexity out of it, so people don't have to worry." - David Auriau Timestamps: 1. 0:00 - Introduction by James Taylor and Alison Burns 2. 1:46 - Introduction of David Auriau, CEO of Positive Zero 3. 2:53 - Focus on decarbonisation and fully financed solutions 4. 3:15 - Three verticals of Positive Zero’s business: distributed generation, energy efficiency, and clean mobility 5. 4:53 - Decarbonisation as a service model and its benefits 6. 6:05 - Top three accomplishments of Positive Zero under David Auriau’s leadership 7. 8:07 - Expansion in renewable energy and $400 million investment from Blackrock 8. 8:26 - Ideal clients for Positive Zero and their sustainability journey 9. 11:59 - The importance of data and long-term perspective in sustainability 10. 14:18 - Solar applications and the shift from fossil fuels 11. 16:20 - Cooling as a service model and its potential 12. 19:54 - Addressing the complexity of energy efficiency 13. 22:12 - Challenges in ensuring speed and scale in the business 14. 23:39 - Simplification as a key to growth 15. 24:04 - Key takeaway: the energy revolution and its positive impacts 16. 24:46 - Vision for an ethical and sustainable future 17. 26:42 - How to connect with Positive Zero and David Auriau For more insights and to connect with David Auriau, visit Positive Zero on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. https://www.positivezero.com/ [https://www.positivezero.com/] To explore more about The Ethical Futurists, visit theethicalfuturist.com [https://theethicalfuturist.com]. 4o

Hande Akdede Erbay of IBM - Sustainability, AI, ESG Data and More #009

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 [https://www.ibm.com] or follow her on LinkedIn. To explore more about The Ethical Futurists, visit theethicalfuturist.com [https://theethicalfuturist.com].

Daniel Gribbin of Deloitte - ESG Regulations, Clause Zero, Sustainability, and More #008

In this episode of The Ethical Futurists podcast, hosts James Taylor and Alison Burns engage in a compelling conversation with Daniel Gribbin, the sustainability and climate growth lead at Deloitte Middle East. Daniel shares his extensive experience in ESG advisory, touching on key aspects of sustainability, regulatory requirements, and practical strategies for businesses to adopt. He highlights the advancements and challenges in the MENA region and discusses his career milestones, offering listeners valuable insights into the future of sustainable business practices. Episode links and transcript at https://www.theethicalfuturists.com/ Key Takeaways: 1. Regional Sustainability Progress: The MENA region is rapidly catching up with global standards in sustainability, driven by increasing corporate and governmental initiatives. 2. Corporate Strategy: The importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies, from executive decisions to operational practices. 3. Regulatory Environment: Overview of current and upcoming regulatory requirements in the Middle East, and their implications for businesses. 4. Behavioral Change: The critical role of behavioral change in achieving sustainable goals within organizations. 5. Innovative Solutions: Introduction to Deloitte’s digital tools, like the Green Light solution, that help companies manage and reduce their carbon footprint. Memorable Quotes: 1. "The biggest challenges we've often faced is the mismatch in expectations and levels of awareness." - Daniel Gribbin 2. "For companies, it's really important to think strategically about sustainability and link it with their corporate strategic position." - Daniel Gribbin 3. "Our role as consultants is to make ourselves obsolete by embedding sustainability into the DNA of organizations." - Daniel Gribbin Timestamps: 1. 0:00 - Introduction by James Taylor and Alison Burns 2. 0:41 - Overview of podcast topics 3. 1:46 - Introduction of Daniel Gribbin 4. 2:55 - Daniel Gribbin discusses current focus and activities 5. 4:14 - Top three career accomplishments 6. 8:14 - Regulatory requirements in the Middle East 7. 12:57 - Implementing sustainability programs in companies 8. 15:27 - Disclosure requirements in the region 9. 17:19 - Hardest part of the job and regional differences 10. 17:28 - Key aha moment in Daniel’s sustainability journey 11. 19:05 - Book recommendations and favorite podcasts 12. 20:04 - The meaning of sustainability and future vision 13. 23:14 - Final thoughts and where to find more information For more information about booking James Taylor and Alison Burns for your next event, visit The Ethical Futurists Speaking Page. https://www.theethicalfuturists.com/speaking Subscribe & Follow: Don't forget to subscribe to The Ethical Futurists podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a five-star rating and review. Thank you for your support!

Hassan Habib - Exploring the Future of Sustainability, EV Adoption, ESG Investing, and More #007

In this episode of The Ethical Futurists podcast, hosts James Taylor and Alison Burns welcome Hassan Habib, a pioneering futurist and investment advisor with expertise in artificial intelligence and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Hassan shares his insights on the future of sustainability, the impact of ESG investments, and the evolving landscape of renewable energy and clean technology. Listen in to discover how industries are adapting to new sustainability standards and what this means for the future of ethical investing and environmental stewardship. Key Takeaways: 1. The Evolution of Sustainability: 2. Post-pandemic shifts in priorities towards ESG and sustainability. 3. The importance of sustainable infrastructure in enabling widespread adoption of EVs (Electric Vehicles). 4. Understanding ESG Investments: 5. Distinctions between responsible investing, sustainable investing, and impact investing. 6. Data suggesting ESG investments offer lower risk and comparable returns to non-ESG investments. 7. Challenges and Misconceptions: 8. Addressing common misconceptions about ESG investments and their returns. 9. The necessity of standardized reporting for ESG metrics. 10. Practical Steps Towards Sustainability: 11. The role of infrastructure and convenience in promoting sustainable choices. 12. The significance of consumer awareness and informed decision-making in driving industry change. Quotes: 1. "Sustainability begins with mindset and should be seen as a culture rather than a product you can enter or exit." - Hassan Habib 2. "Money can be a medium of exchange, but it can also be a medium of change." - Hassan Habib 3. "Awareness in a lot of people changes choices, and that's where we can bring a great difference." - Hassan Habib Timestamps: 1. 0:00 - 1:16: Introduction to the Ethical Futurists podcast. 2. 1:16 - 2:43: Introduction of Hassan Habib and his role in ESG and AI. 3. 2:43 - 4:42: Discussion on post-pandemic shifts in sustainability priorities. 4. 4:42 - 7:07: Insights into the infrastructure of EV charging stations in the UAE. 5. 7:07 - 9:54: Challenges of EV adoption in apartment living versus villas. 6. 9:54 - 13:25: Explanation of responsible, sustainable, and impact investing. 7. 13:25 - 16:35: Shifts in investment trends post-pandemic and their implications. 8. 16:35 - 19:55: Standardization and reporting challenges in ESG investments. 9. 19:55 - 24:45: Addressing misconceptions and the role of consumer awareness. 10. 24:45 - 27:57: Quickfire questions - recommended books and resources on sustainability. 11. 27:57 - 28:42: Where to find more information about Hassan Habib. 12. 28:42 - End: Conclusion and call to action for listeners.