The NatureBacked Podcast

Did you know that most sunflower seeds end up as oil or animal feed? Our guest is challenging the centuries-old status quo of sunflower seed usage. Join us as we speak with Dmitri Eivin, the co-founder and CEO of Sunfly. The episode was recorded live at Impact Day 2024 in Tallinn, Estonia.While over 95% of sunflower seeds are traditionally relegated to oil and animal feed, Sunfly is pioneering a disruptive approach. Discover how they're utilizing 100% of the seed to create a remarkable range of plant-based, protein-rich, and top 14 allergen-free products – from delicious seed spreads to dairy and even meat alternatives – all while drastically reducing their environmental footprint. Prepare to be inspired by Sunfly's commitment to a zero-waste future and its powerful impact on land use, water consumption, and CO2 emissions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Francisco Roque De Pinho, co-founder of the Land Group, discusses in this episode the transformative potential of regenerative agriculture in South America and beyond.He shares insights into the practices that make agriculture more sustainable, the challenges faced in implementing these practices, and the importance of capital in driving change. The discussion also touches on the role of carbon markets and the future of regenerative agriculture as it gains traction among investors and consumers alike.The Land Group has been quietly operating since 2016 from a base in Europe. It has acquired, and transformed 40,000 hectares of farmland in South America to drive a regenerative agriculture shift while delivering strong financial returns and asset appreciation.Formally launching in September of last year, with €120 million assets under management, it’s now ramping up its focus on adaptive-grazing based approaches to regenerative agriculture.takeaways Regenerative agriculture focuses on improving soil quality and biodiversity. The current agricultural model is unsustainable and needs transformation. Not all regenerative practices are financially viable or scalable. Adaptive multi-paddock grazing is a scalable regenerative practice. The journey to founding the Land Group began with turning around distressed assets. Regenerative agriculture is gaining interest among investors. Carbon markets are fragmented and challenging to navigate. The future of regenerative agriculture depends on capital availability. There is growing awareness and interest in regenerative practices among farmers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anthony Milewski discusses the global energy transition with host Tarmo Virki, emphasizing the shift from coal to cleaner energy sources like nuclear and renewables. He highlights the importance of critical minerals in sustainable energy and the ethical dilemmas surrounding their sourcing. The discussion also touches on consumer responsibility and the environmental impact of electric vehicles, urging listeners to consider the broader implications of their consumption choices.Anthony is a 4x founder and trailblazer in energy transition and critical minerals, driving investments that power global industries while balancing profits with environmental impact. His two passions — investing and outdoor adventures — converge in his role as a pioneer in the electrification of industries. From nickel for EV batteries to carbon markets to preserve forests to AI solutions that reduce the environmental impact of farming — Anthony focuses on investments that power the renewable energy revolution while driving high eco-friendly returns. Takeaways:takeaways The energy transition is a necessary global shift. Nuclear energy is a key player in reducing pollution. Renewables like solar and wind have environmental costs. Critical minerals are essential for modern technology. Ethical sourcing of minerals is a complex issue. Consumers often disconnect from the sourcing of products. Less consumption could mitigate environmental impact. Investors can capitalize on the demand for critical minerals. Electric vehicles, while cleaner, still have significant environmental footprints. Awareness of sourcing can drive consumer behavior towards sustainability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Conner Tidd, co-founder and CEO of Just Vertical discusses the innovative approaches to vertical farming, emphasizing the ease of use and productivity of their systems. He shares insights into the sustainability of hydroponics, the challenges faced by startups in the agricultural sector, and the growth of the consumer market for indoor farming solutions. Tidd also highlights future milestones for Just Vertical, including technological advancements and the impact of current economic conditions on food prices.TakeawaysJust Vertical builds indoor vertical farms globally.Their systems are designed for ease of use and productivity.They have grown over 350,000 plants in various locations.Hydroponics allows for controlled growth conditions.Indoor farming complements traditional agriculture, not replaces it.The startup mentality drives their innovation and growth.Farming remains a labor-intensive industry despite technology.The consumer market for indoor farming is stable and growing.Economic conditions are affecting food prices significantly.Refining technology is crucial for future growth and sustainability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Jojo Mehta, the head of Stop Ecocide International, discusses the concept of ecocide, its definition, and the importance of criminalizing severe environmental harm.She shares her journey into environmental advocacy, the global legislative progress, and the role of international law in addressing ecocide.The discussion highlights the cultural shifts needed to recognize the seriousness of ecological destruction and the potential impact of US politics on the movement.Mehta emphasizes the need for a global acknowledgment of ecocide as a serious crime and outlines future milestones for advocacy efforts.Takeaways Ecocide refers to severe and long-term harm to ecosystems. Criminalizing ecocide aims to create a moral stigma against environmental harm. Legislation is moving forward in various jurisdictions to address ecocide. International law can elevate serious environmental crimes to a new level of seriousness. Cultural shifts are necessary to recognize the value of nature. Ecocide law could restore the International Criminal Court's intended role. The US's non-membership in the ICC limits its influence on ecocide law. Advocacy for ecocide law is gaining momentum globally. The coalition of victim countries is crucial for advancing ecocide law. Future milestones include expanding diplomatic conversations and legal frameworks.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ramanan Raghavendran, founder of a venture capital firm Amasia, outlines their investment thesis, which emphasizes behavior change and the circular economy, and shares insights on the challenges facing clean tech and sustainability startups.Ramanan also highlights the importance of consumer behavior in driving sustainable choices and offers advice for navigating the investment landscape in the coming years.Takeaways Amasia focuses on sustainability and climate-related investments. Investing in software-based businesses is a key strategy. Behavior change is essential for addressing climate issues. The circular economy plays a crucial role in sustainability. Consumer choices can significantly impact sustainability efforts. 2025 to present challenges for sustainability-focused companies. Exploring alternative financing sources is vital for startups. Hope and passion are important for entrepreneurs in tough times. Investors should look beyond traditional VC funding. Sustainability is a mission worth pursuing. We talked also about Ramanan's book In Our Hands: Getting To A Sustainable Planet With Behavior Change Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Tarmo Virki interviews Alix Lebec, an expert in innovative finance, focusing on the intersection of finance and sustainability. They discuss the importance of innovative finance in addressing climate challenges, particularly in water infrastructure.Alix talks about her journey from the World Bank to building WaterEquity with Gary White and Matt Damon to founding Lebec, an investment advisory.Alix shares insights on the role of private investment, the need to integrate climate risk into asset valuations, and the urgency of sustainable solutions.TakeawaysInnovative finance blends philanthropy and traditional finance to address sustainability.Private capital is increasingly needed in water infrastructure investments.Climate resilience is crucial as water demand will exceed supply soon.Integrating climate risk into asset valuations can change investment dynamics.Insurance companies reflect the actual costs of climate risks.Water is a fundamental resource that impacts all sectors.Investing in sustainable solutions can significantly boost the global economy.Storytelling is essential to inspire action against climate challenges.Young people can make a difference through conscious consumerism.Collaboration among asset owners can drive innovative finance strategies.The cover visual for the episode was created by Le Chat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Szur from Altitude Water discusses the innovative approach to water purification through atmospheric water generation. Szur emphasizes the importance of nature's processes in creating pure water and the company's unique technology that utilizes ozone for purification.The conversation with host Tarmo Virki explores the growing industry of atmospheric water generation, the environmental impact of bottled water, and the importance of community building and sustainable solutions.Szur shares insights on future goals for 2025, focusing on collaboration between for-profit and nonprofit organizations to create lasting change.TakeawaysAltitude Water focuses on creating pure water using nature's processes.The company uses atmospheric water generation to harness humidity.Ozone is a powerful natural purifier that Altitude Water utilizes.The bottled water industry contributes to environmental issues.Atmospheric water generation is a growing $3.6 billion industry.Community building is essential for sustainable solutions.Effective charity considers long-term impacts and sustainability.Altitude Water aims to provide clean water access in remote areas.The technology is designed to be energy efficient and environmentally friendly.Future goals include expanding community partnerships and disaster relief efforts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Kristin Hull discusses the mission and operations of Nia Impact Capital, an asset management firm focused on aligning investments with values, particularly in the context of sustainability and social impact.She emphasizes the importance of investing in companies that contribute to a just and sustainable economy while debunking the myth that impact investing cannot yield profits.Hull also addresses the political challenges facing sustainable investing, the significance of diversity in asset management, and the urgency of transitioning to sustainable investment practices to combat climate change.TakeawaysNia Impact Capital focuses on investing with intention and purpose.The firm has been fossil fuel-free since its inception.Impact investing can be profitable and sustainable.Research shows divesting from fossil fuels can yield better returns.Political challenges exist but do not deter sustainable investing.Young investors are increasingly conscious of their investment choices.Women and diverse leaders are underrepresented in asset management.Investing in women-led firms can lead to better economic outcomes.The urgency of climate change necessitates immediate action in investing.Collective action in investing can lead to significant societal change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joonas Plaan, a board member of the Estonian Fund for Nature (ELF), discusses the importance of sustainable investing, the role of NGOs in guiding corporate responsibility, and the challenges of quantifying nature's value.Joonas shares insights on successful restoration projects in Estonia and the growing trend of companies supporting environmental initiatives, highlighting the need for a shift in how businesses perceive their relationship with nature.Fiona Alston interviewed Plaan live at Impact Day festival in October 2024.Takeaways The Estonian Fund for Nature focuses on marine issues, climate change, forestry, wetlands, and volunteer work. Investors should prioritize sustainable projects over fossil fuels and greenwashing. Collaboration between NGOs and companies can guide sustainable investments. Nature restoration projects are becoming legally mandated in the EU. Companies can be profitable while being environmentally responsible. The value of nature is often difficult to quantify in monetary terms. Successful restoration projects can attract corporate support without expecting returns. Mastercard's initiative shows how companies can contribute to environmental causes. The future of corporate responsibility includes more investment in nature. Changing perceptions about nature's value is crucial for sustainable business practices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices