
Sustainable Supply Chain
Welcome to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, hosted by Tom Raftery, a seasoned expert at the intersection of technology and sustainability. This podcast is an evolution of the Digital Supply Chain podcast, now with a laser-focused mission: exploring and promoting tech-led sustainability solutions in supply chains across the globe.Every Monday at 7 am CET, join us for insightful and organic conversations that blend professionalism with an informal, enjoyable tone. We don't script our episodes; instead, we delve into spontaneous, meaningful dialogues about significant topics, always with a touch of fun.Our guests are a diverse mix of influencers in the field - from founders and CxOs of pioneering solution providers to thought leaders and supply chain executives who have successfully implemented sustainability initiatives. Their stories, insights, and experiences are shaping the future of sustainable supply chains.While the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast addresses critical and complex issues, we aim to keep the discussions accessible, engaging, and, most importantly, actionable. It's a podcast that caters to a global audience, reflecting the universal importance of sustainability in today’s interconnected world.We are always eager to hear from our listeners. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable to us, helping shape the podcast into a platform that truly resonates with its audience. Feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on social media to share your thoughts, ideas, or just to say hello.Subscribe to the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast and be a part of this crucial conversation. Together, let's explore how technology and innovation can lead the charge in creating more sustainable, responsible, and efficient supply chains for a better tomorrow.
Latest episodes

Apr 21, 2025 • 39min
Forced Labour, Flood Risks, and Design Thinking: Rhea Rakshit on Building Ethical Supply Chains
Send me a messageOn this week’s episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I’m joined by Rhea Rakshit, VP of Product Management at Sayari, a company helping organisations untangle the complex web of supply chain risk with data, design thinking, and a strong dose of social impact.We talk about why traditional supply chain visibility just doesn’t cut it anymore - and how real insight starts with understanding who you’re sourcing from and who they’re connected to. Rhea brings a fascinating perspective, shaped by her background in social innovation and systems design, and years working on both the consumer and enterprise sides of supply chain tech.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Why ESG is no longer just a CSR checkbox✅ How forced labour, climate risk, and deforestation are being tracked with data-led approaches✅ What “human-centred design” actually looks like in the context of supply chain software✅ The difference between visibility and insight - and why it matters for resilience✅ How global North boardrooms often miss the lived realities of their suppliers in the global South✅ Why consolidating sustainability ownership under risk or compliance functions is a game-changerIf you’re serious about building a resilient, ethical, and future-proof supply chain, this conversation is a must-listen.🎧 Subscribe and tune in at sustainablesupplychainpodcast.com#supplychain #sustainability #esg #productcarbonfootprint #duediligence #forcedlabour #deforestation #supplychaintransparency #realtimedata #sustainablebusinessElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Apr 14, 2025 • 38min
Scope 3, AI, and the Data Gap – Real Talk with ENGIE Impact’s Paige Janson
Send me a messageWe’ve all seen it - corporate sustainability targets set in boardrooms with no real plan to back them up. In this episode, I sit down with Paige Janson, CEO of the Sustainable Resource Management division at ENGIE Impact, to talk about what happens next, when the ambition meets the reality of data gaps, regulatory complexity, and internal resistance.With nearly 20 years’ experience helping global organisations decarbonise, Paige shares practical insights into where companies are getting stuck and what’s needed to drive real change, not just write sustainability reports.We cover:Why data - especially validated, recurring data - is the real gold standard for sustainability successHow to avoid the common mistake of setting targets before understanding your energy and emissions baselineWhat’s needed to keep Scope 1, 2 and 3 reporting credible under growing scrutinyThe link between executive accountability and actual progressHow AI is already transforming carbon data management (and what’s coming next)Why aligning sustainability with core business operations - from finance to facilities - is criticalWhether you’re in supply chain, ESG, or just trying to make sense of Scope 3, this one’s worth your time.Find more episodes at sustainablesupplychainpodcast.comListen, share, and if you enjoy the show, consider supporting it at tinyurl.com/SSCpodElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Apr 7, 2025 • 32min
Why Real-Time Data Is the Missing Link in Product Carbon Footprinting
Send me a messageIn this week’s episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I sit down with Simon Kim, CEO and founder of Glassdome, to unpack a critical and fast-evolving area in sustainability: product carbon footprinting (PCF).We explore why accurate, site-specific emissions data is becoming essential for manufacturers, not just to comply with EU regulations like the Battery Passport and Digital Product Passport, but to stay competitive in global markets. Simon shares how Glassdome collects real-time data directly from factory floors, bypassing outdated guesswork and generic industry averages that can’t support real decarbonisation.We also examine:Why the EU is setting the global pace for sustainability regulationsThe role of primary data in supply chain emissions reportingHow even SMEs can affordably modernise their data infrastructureGlassdome’s partnership with Siemens and what that signals for future data exchangeWhat best-in-class emissions tracking could look like by 2030For manufacturers wondering where to start, Simon makes it clear: get your data infrastructure in place and begin engaging your supply chain. You can’t manage what you can’t measure.This episode is a must-listen for supply chain professionals, sustainability leads, and anyone interested in the future of carbon accounting in manufacturing.🎧 Listen now to learn how emissions tracking is evolving from regulatory checkbox to strategic differentiator.For more, visit www.sustainablesupplychainpodcast.comElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Mar 31, 2025 • 36min
Sustainable Packaging in Food Service: What Works, What Doesn’t
Send me a messageIn this week’s episode, I sat down with Andrew Hargest, founder of Supply Club, to unpack the complexities of sustainable packaging in the food service sector.We discussed what sustainability really means in the context of packaging - beyond the buzzwords - and why cost is no longer the blocker it once was. Andrew explained how compostability only works if composting infrastructure exists, and how misconceptions around materials often steer businesses in the wrong direction.He also shared how Supply Club is leveraging AI to streamline product listings and backend operations, reducing friction and costs. Their GreenBux programme adds another layer: combining a customer loyalty scheme with verified carbon offsetting - turning everyday purchases into tangible climate action.We also touched on supply chain resilience in the face of tariffs, and why agile sourcing strategies are becoming essential. Andrew’s approach to integrating tech, while maintaining supply chain flexibility, offers useful insights for both large and small organisations looking to build more sustainable procurement practices.If you’re navigating packaging decisions or just keen to understand how sustainability is evolving across supply chains, this one’s worth a listen.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.For links and past episodes: www.sustainablesupplychainpodcast.com#supplychain #sustainability #packaging #carbonoffsets #compostablepackaging #foodservice #greentech #circulareconomy #logistics #AIinSupplyChain #SustainableSupplyChainPodElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Mar 24, 2025 • 55min
Repair or Ruin? E-Waste, Informal Economies, and the Role of Manufacturers
Send me a messageIn this episode, I sit down once again with Kenny McGee, CEO of Component Sense, to delve into one of the most confronting aspects of global supply chains — electronic waste, or e-waste.Kenny recently returned from Agbogbloshie, Ghana, a site once dubbed the world’s largest e-waste dump. What he found there was far more complex than expected: a vast, informal economy built around salvaging, repairing, and repurposing our discarded electronics. From TVs and fridges to circuit boards and copper wiring, items we think are being “recycled” are often ending up in the hands of workers — many of them teenagers — who burn, strip, and break devices using bare hands and basic tools.We talk through the journey of a used TV from a UK household to the streets of Accra, explore the supply chains that enable illegal exports of e-waste, and reflect on the human and environmental costs tied to our throwaway tech culture. Kenny also shares the hopeful side — stories of resilience, resourcefulness, and local charity-led education and healthcare initiatives.Key takeaways:Why the second-hand trade isn’t inherently bad — but needs regulation.How plastic and clothing waste are compounding the e-waste problem.The role manufacturers must play in designing for repair and reuse.Why abrupt changes to e-waste flows could hurt the very people we aim to help.If you're in supply chain, electronics manufacturing, or sustainability, this one’s well worth your time.For more, visit ComponentSense.com or follow Kenny on LinkedIn.🎧 Listen now and subscribe on your favourite podcast platform.Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Mar 17, 2025 • 31min
The Sustainability Thread: Connecting Data, Compliance & Action
Send me a messageThe Sustainability Thread: Digitalising Supply Chain SustainabilityIn this episode of The Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I sit down with Klaus Brettschneider, Director of Sustainability Products at Linx-AS, to explore how digitalisation is transforming sustainability management. Klaus introduces the concept of the sustainability thread—an evolution of the digital thread—that connects sustainability data across an organisation, enabling businesses to move beyond compliance and embed sustainability into product lifecycle management (PLM).We discuss the challenges companies face, from fragmented data to complex supply chains, and how automation can streamline processes like carbon accounting and lifecycle assessments. Klaus shares insights on regulatory pressures such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), highlighting how businesses must align their IT strategies with sustainability goals to stay ahead.We also cover:✅ Why sustainability reporting is overwhelming teams—and how to fix it✅ The role of AI, IoT, and blockchain in supply chain transparency✅ Why industries like steel and cement are progressing, while agriculture struggles✅ The importance of supplier collaboration in tracking sustainability dataKlaus argues that digitalisation is the missing link in supply chain sustainability. If companies want to make meaningful progress, they must digitise sustainability data, integrate it into their processes, and ensure seamless data flow across their value chains.📌 Listen now and learn how to future-proof your sustainability strategy!Here is the the Sustainability ThreElevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Mar 10, 2025 • 38min
Billions in Grants Are Available—Here’s How Manufacturers Can Get Them
Send me a messageIn this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I sit down with Micki Vandeloo, president of Lakeview Consulting, to explore a critical but often overlooked funding opportunity: grants for manufacturers. Many manufacturing firms are unaware of the substantial funding available to support sustainability initiatives, equipment upgrades, and workforce training. Micki sheds light on how businesses can access these funds and avoid leaving money on the table.We discuss:The stark lack of awareness among manufacturers about available grants.Key differences between grants, subsidies, tax credits, and loans.How sustainability-related grants are growing in prominence, particularly for energy efficiency, renewables, and supply chain reshoring.Why state-level grants are often easier to secure than federal ones.The impact of changing political administrations on grant availability and funding priorities.With sustainability mandates increasing and businesses under pressure to decarbonise, grants provide a strategic way to offset investment costs. If your company is looking to adopt cleaner technologies, improve efficiency, or expand production, now is the time to explore these funding opportunities before policies shift.Find out how to navigate the complex grant landscape and ensure your business isn’t missing out.Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Mar 3, 2025 • 32min
Maximising IT Asset Lifecycles: A Smarter Approach to Sustainability
Send me a messageThe sustainability of IT infrastructure is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in reducing corporate carbon footprints. In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Payne, SVP of Supply Chain Solutions at MDSi, to explore how organisations can optimise reverse logistics, extend asset lifecycles, and reduce emissions in their IT operations.Shannon explains why many large enterprises have well-defined procurement processes but lack structured methodologies for managing IT asset decommissioning, reuse, and recycling. She shares insights into how companies can reduce waste, lower costs, and maximise value from legacy equipment through certified pre-owned IT solutions, which can cut emissions by up to 80% compared to new hardware.We also discuss the growing energy demand of AI, expected to surge by 160% by 2030, and how businesses can balance technology refresh cycles with sustainability goals. Shannon outlines key supply chain challenges, including tracking stranded assets, reducing unnecessary purchases, and optimising forward and reverse logistics for minimal environmental impact.Key Takeaways:The role of IT infrastructure in corporate sustainability and carbon reductionHow AI is reshaping supply chain efficiencies—and increasing energy demandThe business case for refurbished IT assets and the cost savings they offerWhy reverse logistics is often overlooked and how to make it more effectiveEssential KPIs for tracking sustainability progress in supply chain management💡 Want to learn how to reduce IT waste while cutting costs? Tune in now.Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability.Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world.Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation.Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues.Act today. Influence the future.Support the showPodcast supportersI'd like to sincerely thank this podcast's generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one.Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities:If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let's talk!FinallyIf you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link.If you liked this show, please don't forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.

Feb 24, 2025 • 36min
Cutting Waste in Cold Chain Logistics with AI
Juan Meisel, CEO of Grip and former scaling expert at ButcherBox, dives into the complexities of cold chain logistics. He discusses how AI technology revolutionizes shipping perishable goods, enhancing efficiency and cutting waste. Juan uncovers the benefits of predictive models that manage packaging and routing in real time, and the importance of weather adaptability in maintaining supply chain resilience. He explores balancing sustainability with cost, and challenges the notion of standardization in packaging, advocating for variability to boost eco-friendliness.

Feb 17, 2025 • 37min
AI, Supply Chains, and the Sustainability Challenge: A Data-Driven Approach
Join Sunder Balakrishnan, Head of Supply Chain Analytics at LatentView, as he dives into the intersection of AI, supply chains, and sustainability. He reveals why pursuing perfect data is a myth and how companies can leverage AI to optimize costs while enhancing environmental responsibility. The discussion includes innovative uses of digital twins to minimize waste and carbon footprints. Balakrishnan also emphasizes that sustainability should be ingrained in supply chain design from the start, highlighting the importance of data-driven insights and employee education in this transformative journey.
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