"There's so much intelligence in nature... that's the new frontier for me"

In this episode we explore the often unknown world of fungi with global sustainability and fungi expert Susanne Gløersen. This conversation uncovers the untapped potential of fungi in addressing pressing environmental issues, blending science, innovation, and a passion for ecological solutions. Susanne would describe herself as "super passionate about the fungi revolution - and how to harvest the intelligence of nature for the environmental innovations that the world needs".

She has more than 12 years of extensive experience in sustainability across the financial ecosystem (most lately Sustainability Lead at SEB GreenTech VC), but has now jumped off to only immerse herself into accelerating fungal innovations for planetary wellbeing. She is the founder of a global award to honor truly cutting edge fungi focused science and start-up innovation, leveraging fungi to solve some of humanity`s largest environmental challenges – The Future is Fungi Award. An award nominated for The Earthshot Prize.

She is also investing in fungi focused start-ups and building an ecosystem of fungi oriented investors - having founded the The Fungi Investment Collective.

Susanne sees biology and nature itself will be the next wave in sustainability, with a particular interest in fungi and how it can support a more regenerative agriculture, nature & biodiversity restoration and the material needs in the world. And it is the truly frontier and breakthrough innovations that excites Susanne the most.

Key Points:

• Journey to Sustainability: Susanne shares her transformative journey from finance to a career driven by a passion for sustainability and responsible capitalism.
• Fungi’s Versatile Role: Discover the myriad ways fungi are revolutionizing environmental solutions, from alternative proteins to sustainable materials.
• Innovations in Mycelium: Explore the groundbreaking applications of mycelium in various sectors, showcasing fungi's potential in sustainable practices.
• Frontier Science and Startups: Insights into the Future of Fungi Award and Collective, highlighting cutting-edge fungal research and startups.
• Future Vision and Advice: Susanne offers predictions on the role of fungi in future sustainability efforts and advice for aspiring changemakers in this field.

Useful Links

In our latest episode we explore the profound intersections of sustainability, activism, and social justice with global activist Kumi Naidoo. Kumi who led in the past Greenpeace and Amnesty International, brings a wealth of experience and insight. He is now a Payne Distinguished Lecturer at the Centre on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law at Stanford University.

He emphasizes, "The struggle to avert catastrophic climate change...is nothing less than saving our children and their children's futures." This episode delves into the critical role of civil society and citizen mobilization in tackling global challenges, highlighting the importance of intersectionality and systemic change. Naidoo powerfully notes, "We either part of the problem or part of the solution... choosing to be neutral in the current context sadly will be making a choice to be part of the problem." His journey from anti-apartheid activism to leading global environmental initiatives exemplifies the transformative power of informed, passionate advocacy. Join us for an enlightening conversation that not only offers a rich historical perspective but also presents practical avenues for making a significant impact in today's interconnected world.

"My entire fashion career has been about really utilizing what is already in existence... and the dignity, the relationship between myself, the people who make my clothes, and the people who wear my clothes"

We sat with Orsola de Castro, a pioneer in sustainable fashion, author and the co-founder of Fashion Revolution, to explore the transformative world of eco-friendly fashion. The episode navigates through the intricate relationship between fashion, sustainability, and the evolving consciousness around consumer habits.

Key Points Orsola’s Creative Journey to Activism: Orsola shares her transition from a creative mindset to becoming an activist in sustainable fashion. She emphasizes the importance of repurposing and transforming clothes, not just as a necessity but as a form of self-expression and creativity. "My entire fashion career has been about really utilizing what is already in existence... and the dignity, the relationship between myself, the people who make my clothes, and the people who wear my clothes." - Orsola De Castro

1. Sustainability in Fashion: The discussion challenges the notion that sustainability and fashion are contradictory. Orsola points out the need for a paradigm shift from exploitative practices to a model that values small, innovative, and sustainable brands. "It's an oxymoron for the fast fashion brands... It is absolutely not an oxymoron for the small, sustainable, innovative brands that are cropping up all over the world." - Orsola De Castro
2. The Art and Necessity of Upcycling: Orsola underscores upcycling as an essential and historical practice in fashion, advocating for its role in reducing waste and promoting creativity. "Upcycling is a methodology and a technique which is autochthonous to mankind... We've been practicing it for 10,000 years." - Orsola De Castro
3. Fashion Revolution’s Global Impact: The podcast delves into the formation and mission of Fashion Revolution, highlighting its role as a global movement advocating for ethical practices and transparency in the fashion industry.
4. Empowering Consumers through ‘Loved Clothes Last’: Orsola talks about her book, which encourages consumers to view their clothing choices through an emotional and intentional lens, promoting sustainable practices like mending and mindful consumption.
5. Envisioning the Future of Fashion: The conversation explores Orsola's vision for a more sustainable fashion industry, envisioning a return to localized, artisanal production methods and a departure from mass manufacturing.
6. Consumer Responsibility and Action: The episode concludes with practical tips for consumers, emphasizing the importance of conscientious buying, supporting sustainable brands, and taking responsibility for the lifecycle of their clothing.

Her book https://www.amazon.com/Loved-Clothes-Last-Rewearing-Revolutionary/dp/0241461154