Season One
Episode 0: The Circular Coffee Break Launch
Episode 2: How to consume less yet create more sustainable value?
Episode 1: Don’t waste the waste, make it your product instead
In this launch episode, host Michael Hanf sets the stage for The Circular Coffee Break, sharing his vision for the podcast and why circularity and sustainability matter now more than ever. Michael introduces the core themes, what listeners can expect, and how this podcast aims to inspire action, spark ideas, and build a community passionate about a circular future.
Episode 1: Don’t waste the waste, make it your product instead
Episode 2: How to consume less yet create more sustainable value?
Episode 1: Don’t waste the waste, make it your product instead
In this episode, Michael sits down with Jaakko Nauha, Business Development Director at TraceGrow, to explore how this cleantech company turns recycled alkaline batteries into organic-certified fertilizers. Jaakko shares insights from his sustainability journey, highlights TraceGrow's innovative processes, and discusses collaborations like their partnership with Boliden Kokkola. This episode showcases the power of circularity in driving agricultural and environmental transformation.
Episode 2: How to consume less yet create more sustainable value?
Episode 2: How to consume less yet create more sustainable value?
Episode 2: How to consume less yet create more sustainable value?
Michael welcomes Tomi Nyman, a circular economy expert on a mission to cut global emissions by 1 gigaton. They discuss Tomi's diverse career, the challenges of systemic change, and innovative approaches like leasing plastics and precision fermentation. With a focus on reducing consumption and extending product life, this episode highlights bold ideas for a more sustainable future.
Episode 3: It takes an ecosystem to create sustainable impact
Episode 5: Activating sleeping assets for sustainable circular value
Episode 2: How to consume less yet create more sustainable value?
Michael sits down with Jukka Viitanen, Head of Sustainability at NRC Group, to explore circularity in the construction sector. They discuss the industry's long life cycles, the importance of collaboration, and the role of the Green Building Council. Jukka shares insights on NRC Group’s Sustainability Insight Blog and calls for proactive sustainable solutions in construction.
Episode 4: Innovation will be key for the green transition
Episode 5: Activating sleeping assets for sustainable circular value
Episode 5: Activating sleeping assets for sustainable circular value
Michael chats with Shahriare Mahmood, Chief Sustainability Officer at Spinnova, about transforming the fashion industry with sustainable textiles. They explore Spinnova's revolutionary fiber technology, collaboration for scaling green innovations, and the role of consumer awareness. The episode highlights challenges like EU legislation and Shahriare’s vision for a circular textile industry, leaving listeners inspired by the potential for lasting change.
Episode 5: Activating sleeping assets for sustainable circular value
Episode 5: Activating sleeping assets for sustainable circular value
Episode 5: Activating sleeping assets for sustainable circular value
In this episode, Michael welcomes Timo Huhtamäki, CEO of Emmy Clothing, to explore the second-hand clothing market and Emmy’s leadership in the Nordic region. Timo discusses shifting consumer behavior, the untapped potential of resale, and the importance of treating clothes as investment goods. He also shares Emmy’s strategy for scaling circular fashion and invites listeners to join the movement.
Episode 6: Getting the right people to the circular supply chain party
Episode 6: Getting the right people to the circular supply chain party
Episode 6: Getting the right people to the circular supply chain party
This episode features Deborah Dull, VP of Global Supply Chain Sustainability at GenPact, as she joins Michael Hanf to explore the often-overlooked world of circular operations in supply chains. Deborah discusses transparency challenges, the shift to regionalized ecosystems, and the role of standards and technology in advancing circularity. Packed with insights, it’s an essential listen for sustainability-minded supply chain professionals.
Episode 7: Never underestimate what it takes to become circular
Episode 6: Getting the right people to the circular supply chain party
Episode 6: Getting the right people to the circular supply chain party
Michael sits down with Katri Saarenheimo, Head of Sustainability at Huhtamäki, to discuss the packaging industry’s path to circularity. Katri highlights the importance of collaboration, innovative materials like mono-materials, and clearer recycling information for consumers. Optimistic about future breakthroughs in recycling and renewable materials, she shares her vision for a more sustainable packaging landscape.
Episode 8: Making sense of circularity is the key to success
Episode 6: Getting the right people to the circular supply chain party
Episode 8: Making sense of circularity is the key to success
Michael talks with Antti Ruuska, CEO of Finland’s Green Building Council, about the shift from linear to circular models in construction. They discuss reducing embodied carbon, sustaining the value of materials, and the Council’s role in fostering global collaboration. Antti envisions cities and companies driving innovation by integrating green solutions and nature into urban spaces.
Episode 9: Regulation is the fuel for circular innovation
Special Episode – WCEF is over, now let the circular work begin!
Episode 8: Making sense of circularity is the key to success
Michael speaks with Julian Lauten-Weiss, circular economy researcher and consultant, about the evolution of circularity and the need for common standards and innovation. They discuss regulation-driven entrepreneurship, startups like modular pallet producers, and the competitive advantages of circular practices. Julian highlights circularity’s role in resource resilience, fostering innovation, and attracting purpose-driven talent in a sustainable future.
Episode 10: Cross-company collaboration unlocks circular value
Special Episode – WCEF is over, now let the circular work begin!
Special Episode – WCEF is over, now let the circular work begin!
Michael chats with Sissi Penttilä, Sustainability Specialist at Reima, about the brand’s efforts in circular fashion. They discuss challenges like recycling synthetic materials, EU regulations, and Reima’s initiatives, such as mono-material products and second-hand collaborations. Sissi highlights ambitious emission reduction targets, living wage programs, and the importance of mindful consumer choices to drive sustainability in the apparel industry.
Special Episode – WCEF is over, now let the circular work begin!
Special Episode – WCEF is over, now let the circular work begin!
Special Episode – WCEF is over, now let the circular work begin!
In this special edition, Michael is joined by Alisa Mick (MixiCenter), Tomas Knuts (Losvik & Flen), and Jaakko Nauha (TraceGrow) to share key takeaways from the World Circular Economy Forum 2023. They discuss the shift from circular to regenerative economy, the need for more corporate involvement, and fostering global collaboration. Tune in for actionable insights and fresh perspectives from WCEF!
Episode 11: Systemic change is a must for re-usable food packaging
Episode 12: Don’t get stuck being less bad. Try to be more good instead
Episode 12: Don’t get stuck being less bad. Try to be more good instead
In this episode, Michael talks with Iida Miettinen, founder of Kamupak, to explore how digital deposit systems are transforming reusable takeaway packaging. They dive into Kamupak’s innovative model, recent partnerships, and international growth. Iida reflects on the impact of consumer awareness and regulations, sharing her mission to make reusable solutions an everyday standard for a sustainable future.
Episode 12: Don’t get stuck being less bad. Try to be more good instead
Episode 12: Don’t get stuck being less bad. Try to be more good instead
Episode 12: Don’t get stuck being less bad. Try to be more good instead
Michael sits down with Anne Larilahti, VP of ESG at Amer Sports, to explore integrating sustainability across industries. Drawing on her diverse experience, Anne discusses life-cycle thinking, circularity in sports apparel, and the role of collaboration in tackling systemic challenges. They also delve into regulation, investor expectations, and the growing alignment of sustainability with business resilience and innovation.
Special Episode – Best of 2023 compilation
Episode 12: Don’t get stuck being less bad. Try to be more good instead
Episode 13: There are no silver bullets in the green energy transition, only silver buckshot
Michael reflects on a year of inspiring conversations, bringing together the best moments from The Circular Coffee Break. This episode compiles key insights from 12 incredible guests, covering topics like circular supply chains, sustainable fashion, innovative materials, and ESG strategies. Dive into this highlight reel of ideas and wisdom that shaped 2023, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovation in circularity.
Episode 13: There are no silver bullets in the green energy transition, only silver buckshot
Episode 13: There are no silver bullets in the green energy transition, only silver buckshot
Episode 13: There are no silver bullets in the green energy transition, only silver buckshot
Michael chats with Ben Medland, founder and CEO of Drift Energy, about the company’s groundbreaking approach to green hydrogen production using sailboats. They discuss Drift’s AI-powered yachts, the potential of green hydrogen, and the opportunities for small island nations in adopting decentralized renewables. Ben shares insights on overcoming energy challenges and Drift’s role in driving a sustainable future.
Episode 14: Shifting towards a supply1 ecosystems for sustainable circularity?
Episode 13: There are no silver bullets in the green energy transition, only silver buckshot
Episode 14: Shifting towards a supply1 ecosystems for sustainable circularity?
Michael talks with Anna Aminoff, associate professor in supply chain management at Hanken School of Economics, about transforming traditional supply chains into circular ecosystems. They explore collaboration among stakeholders, urban mining, and the evolving role of procurement in driving sustainability. Anna emphasizes the importance of education and public procurement in enabling circular solutions, offering insights into the future of sustainable supply chains.
Episode 15: Design for Circularity, not recycling
Episode 13: There are no silver bullets in the green energy transition, only silver buckshot
Episode 14: Shifting towards a supply1 ecosystems for sustainable circularity?
This episode features Tapani Jokinen, a seasoned circular design expert, who explores the transformative role of circular design in driving sustainability. He explains how 80% of a product’s environmental impact is decided at the design stage, sharing insights from his work at Nokia and practical examples like sustainable electronics. Tapani emphasizes collaboration and envisions a future where circular products become the standard.
Episode 16: Lost in Translation, miscommunicating circularity
Episode 17: Care & repair partnerships are at the heart of circularity
Episode 17: Care & repair partnerships are at the heart of circularity
This episode dives into the synergy between circular economy and digital technologies with Malahat Ghoreishi, senior lecturer at LAB University of Applied Sciences. Malahat shares her journey, the need for unified circularity definitions, and the role of education in sustainability. Highlighting AI, IoT, and blockchain, she explains how data can drive circularity, offering fresh perspectives on advancing a sustainable future.
Episode 17: Care & repair partnerships are at the heart of circularity
Episode 17: Care & repair partnerships are at the heart of circularity
Episode 17: Care & repair partnerships are at the heart of circularity
This episode explores the partnership between Nanso Group and Menddie, blending tradition with innovation in circular fashion. Jenni Homer, Nanso’s Director of Retail, highlights their journey toward sustainability with repaired and upcycled collections. Riikka Olli, CEO of Menddie, shares how tech-driven repair and resale services are scaling circular commerce. Together, they discuss shifting mindsets, legislation, and the future of sustainable fashion.
Episode 18: Insects are the future of sustainable pet food
Episode 17: Care & repair partnerships are at the heart of circularity
Episode 18: Insects are the future of sustainable pet food
This episode features Tuure Parviainen, co-founder and CEO of Volare Solutions, discussing how insect-based proteins are transforming the pet food industry. Volare uses black soldier flies to upcycle food industry byproducts into sustainable proteins, reducing carbon emissions by up to 90%. Tuure shares insights into scaling, regulatory landscapes, and the potential of circular solutions to reshape food production for a more sustainable future.
Episode 19: Starting circular change - wherever you are
Episode 19: Starting circular change - wherever you are
Episode 18: Insects are the future of sustainable pet food
In this episode, Dina Padalkina, founder of Circular Berlin, shares her vision for reshaping Berlin through a local circular economy agenda. She discusses the organization’s focus on knowledge, community building, and education, as well as projects in construction, textiles, and food. Dina emphasizes collaboration, experimentation, and community-driven action to create a sustainable and circular future for cities.
Episode 20: The circular regulation 101
Episode 19: Starting circular change - wherever you are
Episode 21: Circularity is a multi-player game
Linda Tissen and Katrine Hoset from EcoBio join Michael to discuss the challenges of corporate sustainability compliance and the role of EcoBio Manager, their SaaS solution. They explore the evolving EU taxonomy, the importance of digital tools, and strategic integration of sustainability into business models. The episode emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and early action to stay ahead in the regulatory landscape.
Episode 21: Circularity is a multi-player game
Episode 19: Starting circular change - wherever you are
Episode 21: Circularity is a multi-player game
In this episode, Michael and Christoph Soukup, Director at Steinbeis Beratungszentrum Circular Economy, discuss advancing circularity across businesses, cities, and sports. Christoph shares insights on helping SMEs adopt circular practices, fostering collaboration in Stuttgart’s Circularity Lab, and integrating sustainability into football fandom. Highlighting ecosystem mindsets and local solutions, this episode offers a fresh perspective on building circular economies.
Episode 22: Making beauty circular, naturally
Episode 23: Sustainability: The MVP of Sports Evolution
Episode 23: Sustainability: The MVP of Sports Evolution
This episode features Alain Mavon, VP of R&D and Sustainability at Lumene, as he discusses the cosmetics industry's journey toward sustainability. Alain highlights Lumene’s innovative upcycling efforts, eco-friendly packaging, and the importance of collaboration in advancing circular beauty. With the Nordics leading in sustainable demand, the episode envisions a future where circularity sets the standard in the beauty industry.
Episode 23: Sustainability: The MVP of Sports Evolution
Episode 23: Sustainability: The MVP of Sports Evolution
Episode 23: Sustainability: The MVP of Sports Evolution
This episode explores sustainability in the sports industry with Max Sorst, Senior Director of Sustainability at SPORTFIVE Germany. Max highlights impactful projects like energy-efficient stadium lighting and water awareness initiatives, emphasizing the importance of education, community engagement, and responsible resource management. He envisions a future where sustainability becomes a fundamental priority, driven by regulations and generational pressure for meaningful change.
Wrapping up year 2023
Episode 23: Sustainability: The MVP of Sports Evolution
Wrapping up year 2023
In this special episode, we reflect on the highlights of 2023 and wrap up Season 1 of The Circular Coffee Break. Get a snapshot of the year’s top topics and the people driving the podcast forward.
