Tom Raftery: 0:03

Hi everyone. And welcome to episode 48 of the sustainable supply chain podcast. My name is Tom Raftery, and this is a special episode of the podcast because it is the final episode of. 2024. So. No guest today. Instead, what I decided to do would be to have a look back over the previous 47 episodes of the podcast and pick out some highlights. But to avoid any bias in doing that. I fed the 47 episodes of the sustainable supply chain podcast. Into Google's notebook LM. So Google's notebook. Large language model. And ask it. To produce an audio synopsis for me. Now, if you're not familiar with Google book. Uh, it can create audio synopses. In a format of two people discussing the content. So I did that. How did create this. Conversation between two different AI's a male and a female AI. Reviewing. The 47 episodes. From this year, 2024. I think it's interesting. It makes a couple of mistakes in some company names, but apart from that, it does a pretty good synopsis. Of the 47 episodes. We've had this year. So. If you missed any episodes or if you're interested in. Hearing what we covered. Throughout the year. Keep listening. And no that. I'll be taking a week off next week. Break for the winter. And I'll be back with another episode. On Monday. January 6th. So taking the week of the 30th off. This is going out on the 23rd. 30th, no episode back again. On the 6th of January with an episode with Jenna Fink. Principal analyst in zero 100. Follow the week later by Kristin Naragon chief strategy officer from I kennel. Follow the week after by George Wade, CEO of zero. Zero. So. Keep an eye out for those episodes as well. And. I have a fantastic break. Have a great new year's Eve celebration and great new year. I'll be talking to you again. On Monday, 6th of January, as I said with Jennifer, but for now, On with the AI created summary. Of 2020 fours, sustainable supply chain podcast.

Male AI Speaker: 2:38

All right. So get ready because we're about to take a deep dive into the highlights from the sustainable supply chain podcast this year. We're talking about all the major trends, the cool tech and the really insightful thought leadership. That's really been pushing sustainability and supply chains forward. It's going to be like getting a cheat sheet to understand where the industry is going and maybe where you might find some chances to make a real impact or innovate.

Female AI Speaker: 3:00

Yeah, it's been a big year with some themes that just keep popping up. And I think it all points to a real shift in how businesses are thinking about this whole sustainability thing. We're not just talking about checking boxes and following rules anymore. This is like a fundamental change in mindset.

Male AI Speaker: 3:16

I definitely want to unpack all of that, but one thing that really stood out to me from all the episodes this year was the role of AI. It seemed like almost every guest we talked to had a story about how AI was completely changing their approach to sustainability.

Female AI Speaker: 3:30

Yeah, and what's really interesting is that it's not just about automating things, you know? AI is actually giving companies access to insights that they could never get before. Whether it's using satellites to keep an eye on deforestation, or analyzing data to know when equipment's going to fail before it even happens.

Male AI Speaker: 3:47

Yeah, Live Eo. Using satellite data to actually enforce the EU's deforestation regulations.

Female AI Speaker: 3:52

Yeah.

Male AI Speaker: 3:53

That's incredible. It's not just watching, it's about holding people accountable in real time. And then there's Thinaer, using AI to predict when machines are going to break down.

Female AI Speaker: 4:02

Yeah, and the Thinaer example is a good one because it shows how AI can have a bunch of different benefits for sustainability. By stopping those breakdowns, they're not just cutting down on waste and emissions, they're also making the workplace safer, which is great.

Male AI Speaker: 4:15

And it's not only about the environment, right? We even heard examples of using AI to capture all the knowledge from workers who are retiring. That's huge for social sustainability. Imagine being able to keep all that experience that would normally just disappear.

Female AI Speaker: 4:28

Exactly. And it really emphasizes that technology is just one part of the solution. The human side of things, like having leaders who are on board and a company culture that supports sustainability, are still so important for making it all work. It's about using AI to help people do things better, not to replace them altogether.

Male AI Speaker: 4:46

That seems to be a common thread this year. That sustainability isn't just a tech problem, it's a human problem.

Female AI Speaker: 4:53

Absolutely. And it's becoming super clear that sustainability isn't just a nice thing to have anymore. It's something businesses need to do. Companies are starting to realize that being sustainable can give them an edge over their competitors, and in a lot of cases it's the only way they're going to survive.

Male AI Speaker: 5:07

That change in thinking is really interesting. Seems like we're moving away from just trying to avoid getting in trouble with the law. And moving towards a way of thinking where sustainability is all about finding new ways to grow and innovate.

Female AI Speaker: 5:19

Right. It's not just about avoiding penalties anymore. It's about finding opportunities to do things better. Like this. Produce pay, for example, they're using technology to help farmers move away from those unpredictable prices they get on the spot market, and instead they're helping them get stable contracts with set prices.

Male AI Speaker: 5:37

That's a huge deal for farmers because they're often stuck dealing with prices that go up and down all the time. But it's not just about making sure they get paid. Right?

Female AI Speaker: 5:44

Exactly. Stable contracts mean farmers can predict how much they're going to grow, which means less waste and better planning. It's a great example of how technology can make the whole food system more sustainable and resilient.

Male AI Speaker: 5:58

We also heard a lot about how companies are using technology to be more transparent about their supply chains. Fictive is a great example. They're helping businesses figure out the carbon footprint of their suppliers, which is something most companies have struggled with.

Female AI Speaker: 6:11

Transparency is becoming super important for everyone. Consumers want to know where their stuff is coming from and businesses need to understand the impact they're having. That's where technology like blockchain comes in.

Male AI Speaker: 6:22

You're going to have to explain that one. Cause I'm still trying to understand how blockchain works. I remember something about using it to track barley.

Female AI Speaker: 6:28

Right. Settlemint is using blockchain to create a totally see through supply chain for barley. That way they know that only barley that's been grown sustainably ends up in AB InBev's beers. So they can actually prove that their beer is sustainable.

Male AI Speaker: 6:43

So it's about being able to show that your product actually meets certain sustainability standards. That seems like a powerful way to build trust with customers.

Female AI Speaker: 6:53

It definitely is. And it shows how these technologies can be used to tackle specific problems in the supply chain. Whether it's cutting down on waste, making things more efficient, or making sure things are sourced ethically. There seems to be a tech solution popping up for everything these days.

Male AI Speaker: 7:10

We saw examples of everything from using AI to manage waste, to data driven cold chains that keep food from going bad. But technology is just one part of the solution. One of the biggest things we learned from the podcast this year is that collaboration is key.

Female AI Speaker: 7:24

Yeah, that's for sure. No more working in silos. Everyone needs to work together.

Male AI Speaker: 7:28

Like Dutch X, working with retailers to offer faster and more sustainable deliveries using those electric cargo bikes. Who knew that being sustainable could also mean getting your deliveries faster?

Female AI Speaker: 7:40

Right. That's a great example of how challenging the way we think about things can lead to new and creative solutions. It's not just about doing less harm. It's about finding ways to do things better. And a big part of that is working with your suppliers.

Male AI Speaker: 7:55

A lot of our guests really stress that a sustainable supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link.

Female AI Speaker: 8:00

Exactly. So investing in your suppliers and helping them be more sustainable is actually an investment in your own business. It's not about telling your suppliers what to do, it's about working with them to raise the bar for everyone.

Male AI Speaker: 8:12

And that can mean a lot of different things, like providing training, sharing best practices, or even helping them use new technologies.

Female AI Speaker: 8:19

Right. We heard about Avetta working with a big retailer to figure out which of their suppliers had the highest emissions and then working with them to improve. That's proactive collaboration.

Male AI Speaker: 8:28

Produce pay is another great example of how these partnerships can work. Working with Four Star Fruits, help the farm get stable contracts, improve their quality control, and even get to zero rejections from distribution centers.

Female AI Speaker: 8:41

Yeah, that's a perfect example of how working together can lead to real improvements and sustainability. It's not just about feel good projects, it's about real business results.

Male AI Speaker: 8:51

And it's not just limited to Big companies working with their suppliers. We heard Camille Manso talk about how they're connecting startups with corporations to work on sustainability issues.

Female AI Speaker: 9:01

It's a win win. Startups bring new ideas and they can move fast. And corporations have the resources and the size to make things happen. Together, they can make a big difference.

Male AI Speaker: 9:10

We saw that with Reith, who were using AI to turn industrial waste into something valuable. Imagine turning dairy waste into brand new products. It's amazing.

Female AI Speaker: 9:18

It's a perfect example of the circular economy in action. And it's definitely becoming more and more popular. It's about changing the way we think about waste and seeing it as something valuable. It's about finding ways to use things over and over again.

Male AI Speaker: 9:31

And it's not just about fancy high tech solutions.

Female AI Speaker: 9:33

Kenny McGee really opened our eyes to just how much valuable stuff is being thrown away unnecessarily. We have to change the way we think about this.

Male AI Speaker: 9:42

It's about seeing those old electronics Not as trash, but as a source of valuable materials that can be reused and recycled.

Female AI Speaker: 9:49

That takes a system wide change, not just within companies, but in the way we make policies. We heard from a lot of guests about the changing rules and regulations, from the EU's deforestation regulations to the focus on reporting Scope 3 emissions.

Male AI Speaker: 10:03

It seems like we're finally starting to see some real progress on the policy front, which is great, but real sustainability needs more than just rules, right?

Female AI Speaker: 10:11

Absolutely. It takes a real commitment to doing business in a way that's good for people and the planet, and that's where leaders come in.

Male AI Speaker: 10:18

Leaders need to set the example, create a culture where everyone cares about sustainability. And give their employees the power to be part of the solution. We heard some really inspiring stories about companies that are doing sustainability training and setting ambitious targets for reducing emissions.

Female AI Speaker: 10:34

What's interesting is that we're seeing sustainability become a bigger part of overall business strategy. It's not just a separate department or something you do on the side anymore. It's becoming part of how companies operate.

Male AI Speaker: 10:46

That's a good sign. It shows that sustainability is becoming a core value, not just something you check off a list.

Female AI Speaker: 10:51

Exactly. It's about recognizing that sustainability isn't just about doing less harm, it's about making a positive impact for the environment, for society, and for the business itself.

Male AI Speaker: 11:02

So after spending all year diving deep into the world of sustainable supply chains, what stands out to you the most? What are the big things we learned?

Female AI Speaker: 11:10

For me is how quickly things are changing, the creativity and the commitment of the people we talk to and the growing understanding that sustainability isn't just a choice anymore. It's the only way forward.

Male AI Speaker: 11:21

I totally agree. I'm really excited to see what happens next in this field.

Female AI Speaker: 11:24

Me too. I think we're just getting started.

Male AI Speaker: 11:27

Okay, before we get too carried away thinking about the future. Let's take a closer look at some of the key themes that came up in the podcast this year. I'm thinking specifically about AI collaboration and the rise of the circular economy. Should we unpack those a bit more?

Female AI Speaker: 11:42

Let's do it. I think there's a lot more to explore there. Okay, so let's talk more about AI. It feels like we've been talking about it all year, and there's a good reason for that. We've seen how it's being used to solve some of the biggest problems in making supply chains more sustainable.

Male AI Speaker: 11:57

Yeah, it's kind of mind blowing how AI can look at tons of data, find patterns and make predictions that we humans would never see. It's like having a sustainability expert working behind the scenes all the time.

Female AI Speaker: 12:08

Right. And we've seen AI being used in so many ways, like making factories use less energy or figuring out the best routes for delivery trucks. The possibilities are pretty much endless.

Male AI Speaker: 12:20

I remember that episode with Thinaer. They're using AI to watch over machines and actually predict when they're going to break down before it happens. That's just incredible.

Female AI Speaker: 12:28

And what's cool is that it not only reduces waste and emissions, but it also makes workplaces safer. If you can stop a machine from breaking down. You're stopping accidents from happening too.

Male AI Speaker: 12:40

Right, it's not just about saving resources, it's about keeping people safe. And it's not all about big machines either. We heard about AI being used to design more sustainable packaging too.

Female AI Speaker: 12:49

Oh yeah, Elizabeth Corbett, the packaging expert. She talked about how AI can help companies figure out the perfect size for their packaging. So they use the least amount of material but still keep the product safe. That's smart design.

Male AI Speaker: 13:02

It seems like AI is taking a lot of the guesswork out of sustainability. Companies can make decisions based on data instead of just guessing or going with their gut.

Female AI Speaker: 13:11

Exactly. And it's not just about physical products either. AI is changing how we manage data across the whole supply chain. We heard about companies using it to predict demand, better manage inventory, and track goods in real time.

Male AI Speaker: 13:23

So that means less waste, fewer emissions from unnecessary transportation, and less stuff going bad. It's about creating a system that's just smarter and more responsive.

Female AI Speaker: 13:33

Exactly. It's about creating a supply chain that can adapt to changes and make sure everything is as sustainable as possible. But it's super important to remember that AI is just a tool. And like any tool, it needs to be used the right way.

Male AI Speaker: 13:47

Are you saying that AI isn't perfect. Are there downsides we should be thinking about?

Female AI Speaker: 13:52

Well, there are always potential problems. We heard from several guests about the possibility of bias creeping into the data that AI uses, and that's why it's so important for humans to be involved. We can't just let algorithms make all the decisions.

Male AI Speaker: 14:04

That makes sense. So it's about finding that sweet spot between human intelligence and artificial intelligence.

Female AI Speaker: 14:09

Exactly. Brian Dubois from ThinAir said it really well. He said, AI is not a silver bullet. It's a tool that requires human understanding and direction. We have to use AI in a smart and ethical way if we want to reach our sustainability goals.

Male AI Speaker: 14:23

So AI is important, but it's not the whole story. We also need to focus on working together and coming up with new ideas if we want to make real progress.

Female AI Speaker: 14:31

I totally agree. And that brings us to collaboration, which was another big theme this year. We heard over and over again that breaking down those walls between companies and building partnerships is essential for creating truly sustainable supply chains.

Male AI Speaker: 14:45

It's about realizing that we're all in this together. We can't just focus on our own little corner of the world, we have to work together, share what we know, and combine our resources.

Female AI Speaker: 14:55

Right. And that includes working closely with your suppliers. Like we talked about earlier, a sustainable supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link. So it's good for everyone to help their suppliers become more sustainable.

Male AI Speaker: 15:08

So how do you actually do that? What are some of the best ways to collaborate with suppliers?

Female AI Speaker: 15:12

Well, it could involve things like training, sharing best practices, or even helping them get access to new technology. The most important thing is to communicate openly. Make sure everyone understands what the goals are, and that they're all on the same page.

Male AI Speaker: 15:26

We heard some really cool examples of supplier collaboration. Like Avetta, working with a big retailer to figure out which suppliers had the highest emissions, and then helping them improve.

Female AI Speaker: 15:37

Yeah, that's a great example of being proactive. They weren't trying to blame anyone or pass the buck. They were working together to get accurate data on Scope 3 emissions and figure out how to get better. It's a much more positive approach.

Male AI Speaker: 15:49

We also heard about companies using technology to find new, more sustainable suppliers.

Female AI Speaker: 15:54

Oh yeah, Fairmarkit. They use AI to connect businesses with suppliers who are diverse and sustainable. It gives companies more choices and helps them make better decisions about who to work with.

Male AI Speaker: 16:04

I like that it's about expanding the network and creating opportunities for smaller businesses and groups that are often overlooked. It brings social equity into the picture.

Female AI Speaker: 16:13

Exactly. It's about building a system that's more fair and inclusive and that benefits everyone. And it's not just about businesses working with each other. We also heard about the importance of partnerships that cross different sectors, bringing together companies, governments, and non profits to tackle really complex sustainability challenges.

Male AI Speaker: 16:32

You know, I wasn't sure about that whole cross sector collaboration thing at first, but the more I hear about it, the more it makes sense. It's about getting different perspectives and expertise involved.

Female AI Speaker: 16:42

It's about recognizing that nobody has all the answers. We need to work together, use each other's strengths, and combine our knowledge to find solutions that are truly sustainable.

Male AI Speaker: 16:51

Like ProducePay, working with governments and financial institutions to create more stable and sustainable agricultural markets. It's a perfect example, right?

Female AI Speaker: 16:59

Exactly. By combining their technology with the knowledge and resources of governments and financial institutions, they're helping farmers move away from those unpredictable prices and get secure contracts. It's not just good for the farmers, it's good for the whole food system.

Male AI Speaker: 17:14

So we've talked about AI collaboration. What else? What other big themes came out of this year's Sustainable Supply Chain podcast?

Female AI Speaker: 17:23

Well, one that's really gaining traction is the circular economy. We're seeing a move away from that old linear model of take, make, waste, and we're moving towards a circular approach where the focus is on reducing, reusing, and recycling materials.

Male AI Speaker: 17:39

It seems like that's a fundamental part of sustainability.

Female AI Speaker: 17:41

Yeah.

Male AI Speaker: 17:42

We can't keep using up resources and creating waste at the rate we are now. We have to find ways to close the loop and create a system that's more sustainable.

Female AI Speaker: 17:50

Exactly. And that's what the circular economy is all about. It's about designing products and systems that create as little waste as possible and use resources to their fullest.

Male AI Speaker: 17:58

Okay, so we've talked about all the cool things companies are doing. But what about us regular folks? What can we do as consumers to make a difference in all of this?

Female AI Speaker: 18:06

That's a really important question because ultimately it's consumer demand that drives the whole system, you know, if people aren't asking for sustainable products companies have less reason to make them.

Male AI Speaker: 18:16

So we kind of have a responsibility to be informed and make good choices, right? It's not just about grabbing whatever's cheapest or easiest.

Female AI Speaker: 18:24

Exactly. And the good news is that more and more people are starting to care about this stuff. Consumers are starting to ask where their products come from, how they're made, and what happens to them when they're done with them.

Male AI Speaker: 18:35

Yeah, it feels like sustainability isn't just this niche thing anymore. It's becoming something everyone's talking about.

Female AI Speaker: 18:41

It definitely is. And that gives consumers a real chance to make a difference. It starts with being informed, doing your research, and really understanding the issues.

Male AI Speaker: 18:49

I remember that conversation with Jag Lamba He was talking about how important transparency is and how we need to hold companies accountable. We can't just assume something's sustainable because it has a green label on it. We have to look deeper.

Female AI Speaker: 19:01

Right. Consumers deserve to know what's happening in those supply chains. And there are resources out there to help you figure it out. Certifications like Fairtrade, Organic, or B Corp are good signs that a company is serious about sustainability.

Male AI Speaker: 19:14

But it's not just about looking for labels. Sometimes you have to go straight to the source. If you can't find the information on a company's website, just ask them directly about their practices.

Female AI Speaker: 19:24

Exactly. Let them know that sustainability matters to you. And don't forget about social media. You can use your voice to raise awareness about issues you care about or to support businesses that are doing things right. You'd be surprised how much impact a single post or tweet can have.

Male AI Speaker: 19:40

So it's about being an active and involved consumer. But sometimes it feels like the best thing we can do is just buy less stuff.

Female AI Speaker: 19:47

You're absolutely right. We live in a world where we buy way too much stuff. And that's putting a lot of stress on the planet. Before you buy something new, think about whether you really need it. Could you fix something you already have? Buy it used. Borrow it from a friend.

Male AI Speaker: 20:02

Yeah, I've been trying to do more of that sharing economy stuff. It's amazing how many things you can borrow or rent these days. From tools, to clothes, to cars. It's a great way to reduce your impact and save money.

Female AI Speaker: 20:13

Exactly. And when you do need to buy something new, focus on quality over quantity. Invest in things that are going to last, that you can fix, and that are made from sustainable materials. It might cost a bit more up front, but it'll save you money in the long run, and it'll create less waste.

Male AI Speaker: 20:28

It's about changing the way we think. Instead of thinking about things as disposable, we need to start thinking about how to make them last. I think Elizabeth Corbett made a good point about packaging. We need to choose products that don't have a ton of packaging and recycle or compost whatever we can't avoid.

Female AI Speaker: 20:45

And don't forget about food waste. It's crazy how much food gets wasted around the world. We can all make a difference by planning our meals, storing food properly, and eating our leftovers. And if you have the space, composting is a great way to reduce food waste and create good soil for your garden.

Male AI Speaker: 21:00

It's about thinking about the whole life of a product. From where it came from, to what happens to it when we're done with it.

Female AI Speaker: 21:07

It all comes back to that idea of closing the loop. Our individual actions might seem small, but when we all do them together, it makes a big difference.

Male AI Speaker: 21:16

So we need businesses to innovate and collaborate. But we also need consumers to be informed, involved, and willing to make smart choices. It's all about working together.

Female AI Speaker: 21:25

It really is. Creating sustainable supply chains isn't just about reducing our impact on the environment. It's about creating a world that's more fair and just for everyone.

Male AI Speaker: 21:35

That's a great way to put it. It's about building a future where everyone has access to things that are safe, healthy, and sustainable.

Female AI Speaker: 21:42

Exactly. That's something worth working for.

Male AI Speaker: 21:44

So as we wrap up this deep dive into the world of sustainable supply chains, what's the one thing you want our listeners to remember?

Female AI Speaker: 21:52

I would say be mindful. Be curious. And be an active part of creating the future you want to see.

Male AI Speaker: 21:58

Well said. Be mindful of your choices, be curious about where your stuff comes from, and be an active part of making the world a more sustainable place. Thanks for joining us on this deep dive, and we'll see you next time.