The Future of Sustainability

In this episode of the Future of Sustainability, we explore how one of the world’s most iconic motorsport series is rewriting the rules of performance with sustainability at its core.Michael Hanf is joined by Marc de Jong, Head of Business Development at the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). With more than two decades of experience in motorsport and international business, Marc is helping to steer WRC through a transformative era where innovation, climate responsibility, and global fan engagement converge.From introducing 100% sustainable fuel and hybrid technologies to implementing biodiversity initiatives in Kenya and mobile health clinics in Mexico, WRC is proving that motorsports can be a testbed for sustainable innovation with real-world impact. Marc shares the thinking behind WRC’s five-pillar sustainability strategy, the lessons learned in deploying new technology across vastly different geographies, and why “beyond rally” logistics and infrastructure matter just as much as the action on the stages.We also dive into WRC’s role as a global communications platform and how the championship is using its reach to showcase new technologies like fossil-free plastics, connected mobility, and carbon-lite broadcasting infrastructure.Whether you're a rally fan, a sustainability leader, or someone curious about how traditional industries can drive meaningful change, this episode offers a compelling look at the fusion of speed, strategy, and sustainability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peppi Stünkel, creative, activist, and founder of I Was Born a Girl, shares how art and poetry can spark global conversations around gender equality and human rights. From grassroots work in Mexico to exhibitions at the UN, Peppi discusses how creative expression creates safe spaces for reflection, healing, and action. She also explains how her work with Team Creativity Finland is helping businesses unlock empathy and transformation through collaborative art. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alena (14) and Sophie (10) Saleem, the sister duo behind Glowie.fi, share how they built a privacy-first AI chatbot to support teens with everyday challenges, from mental wellness to relationships. In this episode, they talk about their road trip across Europe to learn AI, building a glass-box model without data tracking, and pitching at the World Economic Forum. A powerful story of youth-driven innovation, trust tech, and designing AI for good. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gary A. Bolles, Chair for the Future of Work at Singularity University, shares his insights on redesigning work, learning, and economic systems to be more human-centered, adaptive, and sustainable. He explores the mindset and skillset shifts needed in a world of exponential change, the role of technology as a learning enabler, and how inclusive capitalism and systems thinking can drive long-term impact. Learn how reimagining the future of work can unlock human potential and support a regenerative, purpose-driven society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heidi Hautala, former Vice President of the European Parliament, shares her personal and political journey in advancing sustainability, human rights, and responsible business conduct. From her early activism in Helsinki to shaping EU policy in Brussels, Heidi reflects on the evolution of the sustainability agenda, the growing role of business, and why transparency, justice, and citizen engagement are key to a sustainable future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Future of Sustainability podcast, where leaders, innovators and changemakers share how sustainability is reshaping business, society and everyday life. Hosted by Michael Hanf, each episode explores breakthrough ideas, bold strategies and inspiring stories from the front lines of change. Tune in to discover what’s next and how we can build a sustainable tomorrow together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.