Why is the circular economy so slow in taking off? A great session at National Sustainability Summit, at RDS Dublin, last week. Led by Francis O'Haire, Paul McSweeney (The ZeroNet), Geraldine Brennan, PhD (CIRCULÉIRE) and Mike Townsend (Earthshine Group ApS), explored how to overcome challenges and accelerate on the adoption of circular economy models in business. > A range of factors holding us back, including companies being slow to develop fully circular propositions, the need to educate and engage customers, investment for circular take-back infrastructure, the business model challenge, and the need to reboot investor mindsets. > Green shoots: there are some great examples of circular business emerging, including IQUTECH, REvolve and others - but some seriously good new circular ventures are struggling to get off the ground: the enabling conditions are not supportive. > Yet, the circular economy is vital for effective climate action - enabling up to 50% reduction in embodied emissions, and a catalyst for necessary transformation. We can't hope to get any where near net-zero without going fully circular. > Going circular changes everything, including how we make money. Business model innovation is, therefore, essential. Some great examples with Caterpillar Inc., Norsk Ombruk AS (white goods) and Beleco (furniture), operating at scale - with major reductions in CO2 emissions and significant cost benefits. How do we accelerate? What can we do differently? > We need to innovate like crazy - in collaboration with whole value chain! > Take a future-oriented approach to redesign customer proposition. > Redesign business models/make money through non-consumption. > Invest in circular infrastructure, supply chains and logistics. > Re-boot the investor mindset/enabling conditions. > Engage in courageous leadership! Any business that doesn't take the strategic transformation challenge, seriously enough, will drift towards becoming a stranded asset. As John Elkington argues, "By 2041, I suspect that most major brands of today will be unknown." Bottom line: Innovation is essential, technical + sustainability + commercial.
Earthshine Group ApS
Virksomhedskonsulent og -tjenester
København V, Capital Region 1.553 følgere
The future is all about transformation
Om os
We are Earthshine Group. We support circular and sustainability transformations in business, economy, and society – to generate long-term shared prosperity, within planetary and societal boundaries. We achieve this through developing and unleashing the capability within people and their organisations, their customers and supply chains, investors and other stakeholders – sharing the challenge, and supporting innovation with leading-edge knowledge and tools to deliver sustainable success. Our HQ is in Copenhagen, Denmark and we have recently established a new office in Dublin, Ireland. We also have a presence in Canada, Germany, Sweden, Norway, UK, and the USA.
- Websted
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http://earthshine-group.com/
Eksternt link til Earthshine Group ApS
- Branche
- Virksomhedskonsulent og -tjenester
- Virksomhedsstørrelse
- 11-50 medarbejdere
- Hovedkvarter
- København V, Capital Region
- Type
- Privat
- Grundlagt
- 2006
- Specialer
- Training & facilitation, Consultancy & research, Keynote speeches, Coaching & mentoring, Advisory board og Lectures and courses
Beliggenheder
Medarbejdere hos Earthshine Group ApS
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Mike Townsend
Founder & CEO at Earthshine Group ApS
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Kate van der Merwe
Sustainability Advocate | MSc Renewable Energy & Environmental Finance
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George May
Sustainability | Consultant | Strategist
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Emily Hill
Associate Consultant • M.S. Human Ecology • Culture, Power & Sustainability Advocate •
Opdateringer
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Here’s an ambitious target – a carbon neutral traffic system by 2036! Green Public Procurement is driving low-carbon innovation for sustainability in the highways sector. Here’s how Kelly Bros International are rising to the challenge… Responding to customers’ ambitious sustainability targets, which will reshape the industry: > Achieving a carbon-neutral traffic system by 2036. > Phasing out finite resources in favour of circular economy principles. > Prioritising bio-materials and resource reuse wherever feasible. *Low-carbon innovation is central to their sustainability journey – aligning product R&D with net-zero goals. *By incorporating bio-based materials into key products, they’ve already cut embodied CO2 emissions by 54% without compromising product performance. But, this is just the start — more sustainability plans ahead, through 2025 and beyond. #Sustainability #NetZero #Innovation #BioResources #CircularEconomy https://lnkd.in/egqTUEAv
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UN: "Environmental damage will cost the world economy up to $25 trillion a year... and threaten the health of billions, unless governments address its effects on biodiversity and food production." New report exposes the major economic impacts -- the not-so-hidden costs of externalities -- resulting from the crisis at the nexus of biodiversity, water, food, health and climate change. > 50% global population lives in areas experiencing steepest declines in biodiversity, water availability + food security, and worst effects of climate crisis. > $58 trillion – more than half of global GDP – was generated last year in global sectors that are significantly dependent on nature. > Unintended reduction of between $10 - $25 trillion a year in global GDP, due to negative impacts that the fossil fuel, agriculture and fisheries sectors have on biodiversity, climate change, water, and health. > Huge impact on the economy and living standards, worldwide! A new way ahead: > We need systems thinking, integrated not isolated mindsets. > Renewed focus on ALL dimensions of sustainability: more effective, efficient and essential! > New roadmap, adaptable for different regions. > Focus on sustainable production and consumption, in conjunction with ecosystem restoration, cutting pollution, and meeting the climate crisis. Audrey Azoulay, director general of Unesco: “The report underscores the need for diverse knowledge systems, values and governance approaches to effectively tackle today's interconnected global challenges.” This systems-based approach -- also aligned with commercial advantage -- is what we've been developing and delivering over the last 20 years at Earthshine. Nothing short of authentic transformation will enable us to deliver shared prosperity within planetary boundaries. https://lnkd.in/dyPKEqAw
Environmental damage 'will leave $25 trillion a year dent in global economy' | The National
thenationalnews.com
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Announcement: Earthshine Group will no longer post on, engage or support the social media site known as X (formerly Twitter, in better times). We find that the benefits of being on X are now outweighed by the negatives. Our desire to engage and share, to help influence a more sustainable world, is better served elsewhere. This is something we have been considering for a while, given the often disturbing content promoted or found on X, including far-right conspiracy theories, racism, hate speech, and disinformation on a range of topics, including the climate crisis. X has become an increasingly a toxic media platform, since Elon Musk has been able to use its influence to shape and distort political and societal discourse in ways that are damaging to people and planet. We have now permanently deleted our X accounts, so that we can devote our considerable energies to engaging with more progressive social media channels. We have, therefore, joined the good folks at @bluesky – so please feel free to join us there for all things #Sustainability #ESG #NetZero and #CircularEconomy – all with an emphasis on #Transformation! https://lnkd.in/eQRVuUib
Earthshine Group (@earthshine-group.bsky.social)
bsky.app
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For a cleaner planet: Where sustainable business principles work to deliver both profit and purpose! We're pleased to share an excellent interview with Karl Zimmerer, Group MD with Glanua - an industry leader in providing innovative and sustainable engineering ‘turnkey’ solutions for the water industry - by Robbie Cousins in Irish Construction News/Constructionnews.ie. You car read the full interview on Irish Construction News: https://lnkd.in/epAisHud And here are a few highlights... 🎯 Strong focus on helping customers achieve their goals: "We provide value-added expertise that helps these customers in Ireland and the UK improve their operational and cost efficiencies, maintain compliance, and reach their own sustainability goals.” 🚰 Major market opportunity: "Glanua is well positioned to capitalise on the increased importance of environmental action and the emerging benefits of the circular economy, as we are committed to solving today’s environmental challenges and delivering a decarbonised and sustainable world.” 🌏 Adopting role of 'Resource Custodian' within a sustainable and circular economy: "We see Glanua as a custodian of water resources and assets on behalf of our customers and communities." 💡 Innovation is key: “As part of the strategy, we’re focused on providing innovative sustainable engineering solutions that can span the entire life cycle of projects... as well as decommissioning at end-of-life of water and wastewater plants." 🪴 Major opportunity for personal growth: “We’ve also trebled our workforce, going from 176 people in February 2022 to 530 staff across the UK and Ireland. So, it’s been a very exciting time for the group, providing huge opportunities for our people to develop.” 💸 Sustainability essential enabler for responsible funding: “We were delighted to receive significant strategic funding from Rabobank. Partnering with such a reputable bank is a huge endorsement and reflects the substantial potential for future growth that Glanua continues to demonstrate. A core part of our partnership with Rabobank is based on our shared values around sustainability." 🏋♀️ At Earthshine Group, we're delighted to have worked with Glanua in developing, supporting and enabling their new integrated sustainability strategy - a real pleasure to work with such a committed team, operating with clear vision and purpose, and ready for the transformation opportunity, so essential in meeting the challenges of our time. 🗣️ A big shout-out to project sponsors Karl Zimmerer, john mckenna, Aine Healy and Paul Gardner - and sustainability action planning team leaders Nuno Miguel Carlos, Hamish Manks, Ann Mahony, Madeleine Gray, and Andrew Sweetnam - along with all the sustainability champions and employees working hard to integrate sustainability and make a real impact. Thank you, and continued good luck! https://lnkd.in/epAisHud
Karl Zimmerer, Group Managing Director, Glanua
https://constructionnews.ie
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Great insights plus courageous leadership from Ryan Gellert, Patagonia's CEO - we need more leaders in business, politics and civic life to engage in truth-telling, and the earnest hard work of sustainability transformations. 🌏 Sustainability is good for business, but it's not easy: "We know from 51 years of experience that doing right by the planet is also good for business. But it isn’t easy, and much of the work our company is known for — such as building a more transparent supply chain or sourcing environmentally responsible materials — can take years of research, investment and infrastructure building." 🏋♀️ Serious hard work is required: "It can be unglamorous, it often happens behind the scenes and success might not result in a claim we can print on the hangtags of our products. But it is important work for the future of the planet and it is necessary to make good on the never-ending push to be the most responsible company we can be." 🔦 Sweat the detail, and move beyond incrementalism: "We’re trying to be a responsible company that sweats the details of every decision we make, but.... no amount of water conservation and supply chain scrutinization will completely offset the damage we’re doing." 🐝 Embrace complexity, find new solutions: "Sustainability and corporate responsibility as a whole are about more than what’s trending, marketing campaigns or being the loudest voice in the room. They are about embracing complex challenges, finding creative solutions and leading with shared values." 👏 Move beyond the soundbites - make it real: "Headlines change, and internet outrage moves on. But committing to protecting people and the planet is not a fad. Our future depends on it." #Sustainability #Transformation #Values #Complexity
The Climate Crisis Is Bigger Than Any News Cycle
https://www.nytimes.com
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Politicians can't escape the floodwaters, or the storms for that matter! A very useful article on Bloomberg exploring how the climate crisis will challenge our politicians — there is no hiding place, not even for the most ardent climate denier. The force of nature wins, every time. When faced with the reality of increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and the severity of their associated physical, societal, business and economic impacts — coupled with the direct personal experience citizens are enduring — politicians will face increasing anger, where there is a lack of real climate action on mitigation and adaptation. Meanwhile, the "smart money" within investors and businesses will want to avoid climate-related financial losses and the risk of stranded assets — coupled with the flip-side of the coin; seeing the real opportunity to drive more sustainable long-term value, driving the economic conditions for more through authentic sustainability transformations. A genuine tipping point could be anticipated by 2030. For leaders in all realms, the choice is clear — keep up, or get left behind. https://lnkd.in/eJda7FVm
Politicians Can’t Escape the Floodwaters
bloomberg.com
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We are sailing, we are sailing - back to the future! Alternative maritime fuels, such as ammonia and hydrogen, require substantial infrastructure investments to generate, store and use these fuels. By contrast, "sails" — a technology that dates back thousands of years — offer a relatively cheap and proven option that can be deployed today. >> Immediate potential for 10–15% reduction in fuel. >> That number could rise, as technology improves and industry learns to make further gains. >> Further opportunity for 30% emissions by modifying routes to capture more wind power. >> Savings would rise to 60% if speed of vessels is also reduced. >> Further advances are also within reach: “We’ve got designs on the table that will take it above 100 percent,” said Gavin Allwright, secretary of International Windship Association. "So you’re actually harvesting more energy from the wind than you can use.” >>Excess energy could be used to generate hydrogen, which would be offloaded when the vessel next docked. The company plans to deploy the new sail technology - alongside traditional propulsion generated from the fuel-based engines - on the Tacoma and four other tankers during 2025 and 2026. Another great example of how to harness the innovation triangle - integrating technological, sustainability and commercial innovation. https://lnkd.in/eYdf8qmk?
How one of the world’s oldest technologies is helping decarbonize maritime shipping | Trellis
trellis.net
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What could a circular economy office look like? Can we imagine designing and building something towards 95% re-use of building elements, components and materials? How is it possible to develop this level of "resource custodianship"? Well, take a look at this -- and get inspired by Emily Hill's visit to demolition contractor Tscherning -- working on our new Project ACDC, all about accelerating circular construction in Denmark. And watch this space for more exciting project details and insights, over the coming months... #Sustainability #CircularEconomy #Construction #ProjectACDC https://lnkd.in/e3Vcq3Fy
During these incoming dark winter months its important to look for beauty and connection in the everyday life. Today during my trip out to visit Tscherninghuset in Hedehusene, it snowed for the first time this winter and I could not help but feel hopeful by the change of season and what is to come. A few weeks ago at Building Green I had the chance of meeting Stine Werge and Michel Buch-Larsen, who are both playing an instrumental role in driving forward the conversation around sustainable and circular building along with sharing the great work ongoing at Tscherning. I had the opportunity to visit their HQ where I immediately felt the innovative spirit. The office in itself is a testament to the possibility of transformation, by utilizing circular building methods to redefine the work environment as an inspiring place you want to be. The architecture of the HQ is uniquely crafted to demonstrate the potential of circular building. From utilizing the Shou Sugi Ban Japanese method of burning re-used timber for the exterior, incorporating nature based solutions through self sustaining green walls, integrating building material waste such as steel, concrete and throughout the building design, to incorporating a material wall to spread knowledge about the potential of materials, and using old gym floors as desks, the entire office is a house full of surprises that leaves one feeling optimistic towards ongoing efforts to change our built environment. At Building Green, I took the first step to publicly share the Earthshine Group ApS project, Accelerating Danish Circular Construction (ACDC) which will be a catalyst for industry change by developing and enabling a new circular model for the industry, based on whole value chain collaborations and solutions, supported by a multi-level theory of change, to ensure a lasting, positive impact; generating a major contribution to Denmark’s climate targets. It is a project that relies on those courageous enough in the industry, to dare to be different for the sake of saving the planet, and our wellbeing. It is through the work of people at Tscherning that set a prime example of how the industry should be taking concrete action to reduce waste, and emissions striving towards a net zero industry. I am deeply appreciative to my hosts who encouraged me to carry on with the journey of the project. Facing an instrumental challenge like climate change, will take resilience and big ambitions to build a better world, and collaborative projects are the place to start.
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How can we realise the $5 trillion climate opportunity? >> New data from CDP suggests governments can kickstart green growth by publishing more ‘investible’ climate plans (NDCs) at COP29. Sherry Madera, CEO of CDP: “This analysis shows there are trillions in opportunities across the global economy. Business now needs governments to lay out plans with sufficient detail for the market to act, realise these gains and kickstart green growth. With the focus of COP29 negotiations on finance, we believe the only route to success is seeing ambitious business practice and the 1.5C goal working hand in hand.” Yet, analysis also reveals slow corporate progress to align core business activities with climate goals: > Only 16% of companies generate the majority of their revenue from low-carbon products. > Average reported share of investment (CapEx) spent to deliver corporate climate transition plans stood at just 25%. > Companies are struggling to realise optimistic opportunity expectations by adapting their product and service portfolio. > Stronger NDCs and policy frameworks are needed to help mobilise financial capital. Failure to do so raises prospect of significant business risks. > Companies analysed identified over $1.3 trillion in climate-related risks – a 29% increase from 2018. > Regulation, market impacts and acute physical risks the top concerns. There is clearly much work to be done, beyond disclosure and reporting, to deliver the change we need to see. Although, there are clearly strong incentives and benefits for businesses that can invest effectively for low-carbon transformation. https://lnkd.in/eBydaVCt
World’s biggest companies eye $5 trillion in climate opportunities, doubling previous estimates
cdp.net