The Voices of Sustainability podcast explores the challenges and opportunities that business, non-profits and
state government face as they strive to balance economic growth with environmental
and social responsibility.
The episodes reveal how different individuals define sustainability, how the success
of sustainability initiatives are measured in their organization, how people remain
motivated to be sustainable, and how to have a positive impact in your career.
The conversations also provide insights into topics such as, circular economy and
recycling, innovation and technology in sustainability, as well as regulation and
policy that are influencing this space.
This season presents one-on-one interviews conducted by undergraduate business students
at the Darla Moore School of business pursuing the Sustainability in Business concentration.
This podcast was made possible by a partnership with Sustain SC. Funding was provided through the Business Partnership Foundation and the Alfred N. and Lynn Manos Page endowment for sustainability in business.
Season 1 Episodes
Episode 1: Carolina Recycling Association - Educating for Effective Recycling
In this episode, we speak with Mary McClellan, the executive director of the Carolina
Recycling Association. One of the biggest concerns when it comes to encouraging people
to recycle is proper education. We discuss her efforts in educating the public and
businesses, as well as how everything is intertwined within the triple bottom line
of the environment, economy, and society.
Episode 2: Redwood Materials - Closing the Loop in Battery Recycling
The use of lithium Ion batteries is expected to grow to at least 500% in the next
few years. With this demand only increasing, an initiative to fully recycle these
batteries has been taken on by Redwood Materials, a company that recycles batteries
and produces battery materials. We speak to Morgan Crapps, the director of Public
Affairs and Government Relations at Redwood Materials, who explains how they are very
close to being able to fully recycle a battery in its entirety.
In this episode we speak with Mumford Industries’ Vice President of Business Development
and Marketing, Tina Green. Mumford Industries is a full-service recycling company
in the plastics industry. The discussion not only goes over the details of recycling
but also Tina’s more expansive mindset on sustainability and how we can make the planet
a safer place.
Episode 4: bFIVE40 - Revolutionizing Textiles with Sustainability
From a D-I-Y toy maker to CEO of a textile company, we speak with Donna Brinn of bFIVE40.
Donna found herself dissatisfied with a toy she bought for her child and decided to
make her own out of materials that are safe to the environment. She discusses how
this simple creation led her to start a company aimed at making textiles out of sustainable
recycled materials.
Episode 5: Delta Bravo AI - Enhancing Sustainability through AI
AI is on the rise and is making its way to businesses. In this episode we speak with
Rick Oppedisano, the founder and CEO of Delta Bravo AI. The goal of his company is
to provide AI software to businesses that train and aid employees to be more efficient
in the workplace. We discuss how this efficiency can lead to safer and more sustainable
practices in businesses.
In this episode, we talk with Trane Technologies’ aftermarket engineering leader,
Tyrone Ellis. Trane Technologies is a company focused on improving heating, ventilation,
air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, all to be more sustainable and climate
friendly. We’ll dive into the importance of efficient cooling systems, Tyrone’s own
sustainability journey, and Trane Technologies ongoing projects.
Episode 7: Sustain SC - Accelerating a Clean Energy Transition
In this episode, we speak with Ethel Bunch, the founder of Sustain SC. Ethel started
Sustain SC partly for her love of South Carolina and her desire to preserve its natural
beauty. The organization aims to help businesses make their sustainability goals while
being beneficial to the economy and community. We also discuss her new venture “Global
to Local,” an initiative to produce clean energy in the southeast.
Episode 8: GEL Group Inc. - Systems-Level Thinking in Sustainability
When thinking about sustainability, it’s important to realize that everyone has an
impact in the world we live in. No matter your position or job title, everyone can
contribute. In this episode we speak with Kait Sagan, the Sustainability Specialist
at the GEL Group, Inc.. The GEL Group is comprised of multiple sectors with various
purposes, but despite their diverse operations, we discuss how they all work together
to be sustainable.
Episode 9: Mark Anthony Brewing - Leading the Way in Sustainable Brewing
In this episode, we speak with the fourth largest brewery in the country, Mark Anthony
Brewing. Their sustainability manager Scott Hicks talks about their sustainability
initiatives like energy and water management, waste reduction, and using recycled
materials in packaging. However, it’s not all easy. Scott also addresses challenges
like cost and changing employee behaviors.
Episode 10: Milliken & Co. - Advancing Green Initiatives in Manufacturing
While being responsible for the planet is the ethical thing to do, the return on investment
is often really slim. However, that doesn’t stop Milliken from pushing forward in
green initiatives. Join us as we talk with Emily Skaggs, the sustainability manager
at Milliken. Emily explains the challenges that businesses face when trying to go
green, but also the victories, like Milliken’s new cogeneration facility.
Episode 11: I Am Beautiful - Empowering Through Education and Community Service
In this episode, we speak with the co-founder of “I Am Beautiful”, Dr. Zenobia Edwards.
Dr. Edwards founded this non-profit to foster confidence, leadership, and sustainability
awareness among girls and young women across communities. We discuss Dr. Edwards'
inspiring journey and insights into how education and sustainability intersect to
create meaningful change.
Episode 12: SC Department of Commerce - Advancing Recycling and Economic Development
In this episode, we speak with the recycling business development coordinator at the
South Carolina Department of Commerce, Allyson Barbier. Allyson discusses her role
of helping businesses implement sustainable practices, especially in recycling. We
also discuss the challenges and trends in sustainability, such as the electrification
of industries and the need for transparency and collaboration among businesses.
Episode 13: Sustain SC #2 - Aligning Business Goals with Local Solutions
In this episode, we interview our second guest from Sustain SC, Senior Vice President,
Cynthia Davis. Cynthia talks about her extensive background in education and workforce
development before transitioning to her role at Sustain SC. We also discuss her personal
commitment to sustainability, managing Sustain SC’s operations, and balancing economic
and environmental objectives.