Climate Careers Reinventing Fashion: A Conversation with Allbirds' Sustainability Director Aileen Lerch
Jun 27, 2025
Aileen Lerch, Director of Sustainability at Allbirds, discusses her unique career path from environmental engineering to climate advocacy in footwear. She highlights Allbirds’ collaborative approach to sustainability, tackling supply chain decarbonization and consumer engagement. The conversation dives into how AI can revolutionize sustainable business practices, enhancing efficiency and transparency. Aileen also shares insights on the evolving role of sustainability leaders, the significance of feedback for professional growth, and the joy found in building climate-focused careers.
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Supply Chains Drive Climate Impact
- Supply chains hold the largest climate impact, more than operational efficiencies.
- Tackling supply chain decarbonization requires understanding global systems like energy, transport, and agriculture.
AI Accelerates Sustainability Work
- AI and software tools can automate manual data work, enabling sustainability teams to focus on strategy and collaboration.
- Choosing the right digital tools is essential for effective carbon impact measurement and scenario modeling.
Align Sustainability with Business Reality
- Prioritizing sustainability initiatives depends on understanding business realities and where the company currently stands.
- Effective sustainability leadership balances ambition with what can realistically be achieved in various phases.