In this episode, we explore what it really takes to build a plastic-free future — starting in schools.

From the origins and global growth of Plastic Free Campus to the realities of stakeholder resistance, we unpack the practical steps, systemic barriers, and student-led breakthroughs behind meaningful change. Why does progress on plastic feel so slow? Is reducing use enough, or do we need to fundamentally reinvent how plastic is produced and valued?

We dive into microplastics and what current research suggests about their impact on human health and ecosystems. We examine the rise of “compostable” alternatives — are they genuine solutions or simply transitional tools? And we broaden the conversation to biodegradable materials, reuse systems, and the promise (and limits) of a circular economy.

Along the way, we uncover concrete ways of reducing plastic exposure, discuss cutting-edge innovations reshaping the materials industry, and ask an essential question: what gives us hope in a time of environmental and geopolitical uncertainty?

References:

https://goumbook.com/

https://plasticfreecampus.org/

https://www.ted.com/talks/melati_and_isabel_wijsen_our_campaign_to_ban_plastic_bags_in_bali

https://www.shannaswan.com/countdown

This episode features Dr. Zara Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer of Carbon Direct - a leading New York based carbon management firm. We had a great conversation, dissecting the realities of today’s Voluntary Carbon Market. We looked at why carbon removal credits still make up only 4% of the market, what truly defines a high-quality carbon credit, and why fewer than 10% of projects meet that bar today.

Likewise, we touched on the imbalance in removal types - with 98% coming from nature-based projects and only 2% from high-durability solutions - and what needs to shift for high-permanence Carbon Removal Credits (CDR) to scale. Another key theme was market resilience, raising questions about buyer concentration and how to diversify demand.

Aside from the Carbon Market, we discussed Zara’s packed career journey, how she became COO of Carbon Direct and how her diverse professional and educational background shaped a practical, interdisciplinary approach to environmental policy.

Lastly, we ended on a broader note: the reasons to stay optimistic about climate innovation.

A conversation with Dr. Steven Adams, founder of US-based regenerative agriculture start-up Bison Underground. The company was one of the winning teams in the XPRIZE Carbon Removal Student Competition.

In this episode, we’ll explore the story behind the company’s creation, how the technology works, and the bigger vision driving it forward. From how we define regenerative farming to why healthy soil might be one of our most overlooked climate solutions, this conversation breaks down complex science into everyday understanding. We’ll also talk about the real-world challenges of working with farmers, building a startup in the agricultural space, and what success could look like when business meets environmental impact.

A conversation with Jan Dijkstra, a former mathematics teacher turned Head of Sustainability at the ECOLINT (Internation School of Geneva) Foundation.

In this episode, we explore what inspired Mr. Dijkstra’s career shift, how he engages students of all ages in sustainability, and what it takes to implement lasting eco-friendly practices in schools. From hands-on projects to overcoming institutional challenges, we’ll dive into the realities of integrating sustainability into education. Plus, we’ll highlight current initiatives and end with a powerful book and podcast recommendations that fuel his climate passion.