The Circular Future - A Quantum Lifecycle Partners podcast

Send us a textIn this episode, Stephanie McLarty and Steven Napoli discuss the critical importance of responsible e-waste management and recycling. They explore the environmental and health risks associated with improper disposal of electronics, the role of certifications in ensuring safe and sustainable recycling practices, and the challenges faced in increasing awareness and participation in e-waste recycling. Steve shares insights on Terra's initiatives, the significance of certified recyclers, and how businesses can effectively manage their e-waste. The conversation emphasizes the need for education, awareness, and the responsibility of individuals and organizations to recycle electronics properly.TakeawaysCertification ensures environmental health and safety.Improper e-waste disposal poses significant health risks.Only 22% of electronics are formally recycled.Data security is a major concern in e-waste management.Education is crucial for increasing recycling rates.Companies face fines for improper e-waste handling.Certification matters for long-term business sustainability. Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textPetri Hayrynen, Global Head of Product Marketing at HMD Global, joins us for an insightful conversation about sustainable smartphones. We delve into HMD's innovative approach to crafting devices that are not only durable but also easy to repair. Petri shares how HMD's design philosophy focuses on simplifying the repair process, making it accessible to everyone.The episode highlights HMD's unique collaborations with brands like Barbie and Sony. These partnerships not only enhance brand identity but also reinforce HMD's commitment to sustainability. We explore how these collaborations help make sustainability in mobile devices more appealing to a wider audience.We also discuss HMD's Better Phone Project, which aims to promote digital well-being, particularly among young people. By working with parents and experts, HMD is addressing the issue of digital overload and fostering healthier digital habits.The conversation touches on the challenges of engaging the supply chain and the importance of strategic partnerships. HMD's collaborations with brands like FC Barcelona and Heineken demonstrate their dedication to making sustainability a core value in the mobile industry.Key TakeawaysHuman-Centered Design: HMD prioritizes understanding the needs and preferences of its target audience, "Emily," to create devices that are both functional and desirable.Repairability as a Core Value: HMD is committed to making its devices easily repairable by designing them with modular components and providing clear instructions.Digital Well-being: HMD recognizes the importance of digital health and is actively working on solutions to help users manage their screen time and reduce digital overload.Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with brands like Barbie, Sony, and FC Barcelona help HMD reach a wider audience and amplify its sustainability message.Purpose-Driven Innovation: HMD's focus on sustainability and social responsibility drives innovation and helps the company stand out in a competitive market.Join us as we explore how HMD is redefining the smartphone industry, creating devices that are both stylish and sustainable.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textSummaryHamilton Health Sciences in Ontario is a success story in sustainability in the healthcare sector. They have reduced their emissions by 49% since 2016 and have implemented various waste reduction programs. They have also digitized patient records, resulting in a 200 metric ton reduction in paper use. The hospital has faced challenges in allocating resources and evaluating the effectiveness of programs. Collaboration with stakeholders and fostering engagement and interest in sustainability initiatives have been key to their success. The advice from the conversation is to invest in knowledge and literacy, do your part no matter how small, and prioritize quality over quantity.TakeawaysHamilton Health Sciences has reduced their emissions by 49% since 2016 and implemented various waste reduction programs.They have digitized patient records, resulting in a 200 metric ton reduction in paper use.Collaboration with stakeholders and fostering engagement and interest in sustainability initiatives have been key to their success.Investing in knowledge and literacy, doing your part no matter how small, and prioritizing quality over quantity are important in sustainability efforts.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textIn this episode, host Stephanie McLarty discusses the significance of Circular Economy Month with guests Caitlin Perry and Audrey Manuel from the Circular Innovation Council. They explore the transition from Waste Reduction Week to a broader focus on the circular economy, emphasizing the importance of systemic change in consumption and waste management. The conversation highlights the various themes of Circular Economy Month, the role of businesses and individuals in promoting circular practices, and the resources available for participation. The episode concludes with advice on how to engage in circular economy initiatives and the importance of celebrating small achievements in sustainability efforts.TakeawaysCircular Economy Month aims to raise awareness about circular solutions.The Circular Innovation Council has a long history in recycling and sustainability.A circular economy rethinks the entire process of production and consumption.The importance of transforming systems to address climate change and biodiversity loss.Circular Economy Month includes various themes to educate and engage the public.Businesses can participate through employee engagement and community initiatives.Individuals can take small actions to contribute to the circular economy.Resources are available for both individuals and businesses to get involved.Celebrating small achievements in sustainability is crucial for motivation.It's never too late to start making a difference in sustainability.Learn more about Circular Economy Month> https://circulareconomymonth.ca/Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textIn this episode of The Circular Future podcast, host Stephanie McLarty discusses the recent acquisition of the eReuse conference by CERI with guests Corey Dehmey and Sarah Kim. They explore the mission of CERI in promoting electronics sustainability, the upcoming eSummit, and the importance of collaboration and networking within the industry. The conversation highlights trends in electronics sustainability, the structure of the eSummit, and advice for attendees on how to maximize their conference experience.TakeawaysSERI is a nonprofit focused on electronics sustainability.The eSummit will feature more pre-summit sessions than ever before.Collaboration is key to advancing sustainability in electronics.The conference aims to bring together all stakeholders in the electronics lifecycle.E-waste management is outdated; focus should be on circularity.Networking and learning from each other are essential at the conference.The eSummit will include diverse speakers and topics.Attendees should reflect on their objectives for the conference.SERI is developing an ESG reporting standard for the industry.The eSummit is an opportunity to celebrate successes in sustainability.Learn more about SERIRegister for eSummitThanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textHow much would you save on an 800-kilometer work trip by choosing an electric vehicle over a gas-powered one? In this episode, we break down the costs and logistics of a journey from Hamilton to North Bay, Ontario. We discuss not only the stark difference in fuel expenses—$150 for gas versus $56 for an EV—but also the time and planning considerations involved. Discover how the seamless integration of charging stops into the EV's system makes a compelling case for electric vehicles, not just from a financial perspective but also in terms of reducing your carbon footprint.Ever wonder how full self-driving features could transform your long-distance travel experience? Join us as we share personal anecdotes about the perks of this advanced technology, including reduced driver fatigue and a more relaxed arrival at your destination. We also touch on the broader impact of electrifying transportation on our environment and how these advancements are steering us toward a more sustainable future. Don't miss out on practical insights and real-world applications of EV technology that could make your daily commutes and business trips more efficient and eco-friendly.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textCanada has introduced new legislation to counter greenwashing, which is already in effect. The legislation, called Bill C-59, is a significant amendment to Canada's Competition Act and aims to address false or misleading environmental and social claims. The penalties for greenwashing can be severe, ranging up to $10 million or 3% of the company's global annual gross revenue. The legislation applies to every business operating in Canada, regardless of size or industry. Organizations can take steps to counter greenwashing, such as educating themselves, reviewing their communications, and using existing standards and certifications.TakeawaysCanada has introduced new legislation, Bill C-59, to address greenwashingThe penalties for greenwashing can be severe, up to $10 million or 3% of global annual gross revenueThe legislation applies to all businesses operating in CanadaOrganizations can counter greenwashing by educating themselves, reviewing their communications, and using existing standards and certificationsThanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textCan remanufacturing reshape the future of office furniture? Join us on this episode of the Circular Future as we uncover the innovative world of sustainable office furniture with Doug Pilgrim, the Sustainability Advocate for Davies Office. With a fascinating backstory dating back over 70 years, Davies Office has evolved from a humble wood furniture refinisher to the largest furniture remanufacturer in the United States. Doug distinguishes between remanufacturing and refurbishing, and explains how modern trends like lower-height panels for collaboration and natural light have spurred significant changes. Discover how remanufacturing not only diverts waste from landfills but also offers substantial cost savings, amid a growing customer demand for sustainable solutions.TakeawaysRemanufacturing is the process of bringing old furniture to like-new condition, while refurbishing involves making minor repairs and improvements.Office furniture has a significant environmental footprint, with millions of tons ending up in landfills each year.More manufacturers need to embrace remanufacturing and collaborate with remanufacturers to find solutions for old furniture.To get senior leaders on board with remanufacturing, emphasize the cost savings, sustainability benefits, and positive impact on the company's environmental goals.Individuals can contribute to the circular economy by prioritizing reuse and prolonging the life of products.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textUnlock the secrets of zero waste in business with our host Stephanie McLarty and  incredible guest Celeste McMickle, the Director of Client Solutions for True Zero Waste Certification at the US Green Building Council. Celeste uncovers the hidden world of industrial waste, often invisible to consumers, and its massive impact on the circular economy. She enlightens us on the zero waste hierarchy, highlighting the critical strategies of redesign, reduction, and reuse to proactively prevent waste.Next, we discuss the rising wave of companies striving for zero waste certification as they navigate their sustainability journeys. Learn how the TRUE Zero Waste Certification Program acts as a crucial roadmap, guiding businesses to achieve an impressive 90% or better diversion from landfill, incineration, and waste-to-energy. Celeste also underscores the importance of third-party reviews in ensuring a robust certification process, and we talk about the realistic timelines for companies to meet their zero waste goals.Finally, we explore the intricacies of achieving facility-level zero waste certification and the benefits it brings. From boosting employee engagement to providing marketing advantages, the rewards are manifold. We also emphasize the significance of widespread, imperfect participation in zero waste efforts, particularly in IT asset disposition and e-waste recycling. Join us at Quantum Lifecycle as we support your sustainability journey and work together towards a more circular future.TakeawaysZero waste is a critical goal for businesses to reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a circular economy.The zero waste hierarchy prioritizes reduction, reuse, and recycling as strategies to minimize waste.The True Zero Waste Certification program provides a framework for companies to measure and improve their waste diversion efforts.Third-party certification adds credibility and transparency to a company's waste reduction initiatives and can benefit marketing, employee engagement, and overall sustainability performance.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook

Send us a textWhat does it take to measure circularity and improve our global sustainability efforts? In this episode, we speak with Heidi Frasure, head of Sustainability at Green Standards, who shares actionable insights into her company's pioneering circular business model. Learn how Green Standards sustainably manages decommissioned office materials on a global scale and the significant role of systems thinking and design thinking in addressing environmental and social impacts in procurement and workplaces.Discover why focusing solely on carbon emissions is not enough and how avoiding "carbon tunnel vision" can lead to more comprehensive and effective sustainability strategies. We uncover the underappreciated impact of interior furnishings on a building's carbon footprint, and examine the unique measures Green Standards uses to track the community benefits of repurposed office assets, including in-kind donations and beneficiary stories. Transparency is key, as we discuss how clients utilize data for impact reporting, marketing, and enhancing employee engagement and retention.Finally, we highlight the importance of an iterative approach within systems thinking, using practical tools like Excel for small organizations and emphasizing the need for action-oriented strategies. Explore the ethical dimensions of supply chains and the human element in circularity, focusing on fair practices and employee treatment. Join us as we call on leaders to drive sustainability initiatives within their companies, promoting collaboration and smart policy to create truly circular workplaces.Thanks for listening! If you like our podcasts, please leave us a review on Spotify or Apple or wherever you get your podcasts from. Want to be a guest on The Circular Future podcast? Email Sanjay Trivedi at strivedi@quantumlifecycle.com Listen on: https://quantumlifecycle.com/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn | Facebook