Straight Talking Sustainability

How do you create lasting change in sustainability initiatives? In this week’s episode, I explore the concept of critical mass and why it’s the secret to making sustainable actions stick.  I’ll share how to identify your “dominoes”—those key influencers in your business who can amplify impact and drive cultural shifts. We’ll discuss why achieving critical mass requires more than a lone sponso...

Why is sustainability so hard to implement effectively? In this episode, I break down the “Perfect Storm” of challenges faced by sustainability professionals and businesses alike.  From weak senior management commitment to a lack of training and measurable goals, I uncover the six key barriers that keep sustainability initiatives from gaining traction. You’ll learn how to use the Five Whys te...

What if tackling climate change isn’t just about CO2? In this episode, I sit down with Jenny Morgan, a leading expert in sustainability, to explore the game-changing impact of targeting non-carbon greenhouse gasses.  From refrigerants to orphaned methane wells, these overlooked pollutants warm our planet thousands of times faster than CO2—and tackling them offers massive potential for immedia...

In this episode, I review Black Gold by Jeremy Paxman, a fascinating exploration of how coal shaped Britain’s history and economy. From its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution to its lasting impact on society, this book unpacks the stories behind the rise and fall of coal mining.  Whether it’s understanding how St. Paul’s Cathedral was funded by coal taxes or how mining communities thri...

This episode is all about simplifying sustainability with practical tips you can start using today. I’m sharing 13 simple hacks to help reduce your carbon footprint, from switching to a greener electricity tariff to embracing meat-free meals and even repairing your favourite trainers.  These aren’t big, expensive changes, but small, actionable steps that add up over time and fit seamlessly in...

In this episode, I chat with Abby Chicken, Head of Sustainability at Openreach and Vice Chair of the Surrey Wildlife Trust, about how businesses can truly embrace sustainability beyond the token gestures.  Abby shares how companies can partner with conservation organisations, engage employees meaningfully, and make biodiversity a core part of their strategy—even if you're running a warehouse...

In this episode, I unpack the power of simplifying your message to create real impact. It’s not about bombarding people with information but boiling things down to what truly matters—making your message simple, sticky, and shared.  I’ll walk you through why complicated messages fail and how cutting out the noise helps your ideas land (and stick). We also explore how small, meaningful actions...

In this episode of "Straight Talking Sustainability," we tackle one of the biggest puzzles in modern business—why is circularity so challenging to implement? From rethinking ownership to reusing, repairing, and recycling, we explore the many loops that make up a circular economy and why so few businesses get it right. You’ll hear real-world examples of success and struggle, from pioneering compani...

In this episode, I sit down with Andy Middleton, an innovative leader in sustainability and a true advocate for long-term thinking. From his roots in the rugged coastlines of Wales to his transformative work with businesses, Andy shares why embracing nature and systemic change is crucial for creating a better future. We unpack his compelling concept of ambitious leadership—being “the most realisti...

In this episode, I tackle the ongoing debate surrounding COP conferences—are they a productive force for climate action or an outdated exercise in bureaucracy? We'll look at key criticisms, like the influence of fossil fuel companies and the perceived inefficiency of the process and explore why these meetings might still be one of the most critical tools we have for global change. We'll discuss wh...

In this episode, I’m opening the door to the behind-the-scenes world of carbon literacy training. Over the years, I’ve trained more than a thousand people, and today, I’m sharing the confessions, challenges, and joys that come with equipping individuals and businesses with the knowledge to confidently discuss and act on climate change. From tackling misinformation to breaking down intimidating top...

In this episode, I’m joined by Jen Gale, a sustainability advocate who knows what it’s like to navigate the everyday challenges of green living.  From starting her journey with a year of “buying nothing new” to founding the online community Sustainable-ish , Jen shares how she found her passion for making eco-conscious choices feel accessible (and a bit less intimidating) for all of us. Toget...

In this episode, I’m breaking down the essential question every business deals with: “Why should we bother with sustainability?” From practical cost savings to strengthening team engagement, I cover how sustainable practices can make a real, lasting impact—not just for the planet but for business health too.  If you’re finding yourself stuck explaining the “why” of sustainability to your team...

In this episode, we're tackling one of the most overlooked tools in your sustainability arsenal: your personal influence. Ever feel like you're “too small to make a difference”? You’re not alone—but the reality is, your influence is more powerful than you think.  I’m breaking down five strategies to amplify your impact, whether you're leading a team, managing a business, or inspiring your loc...

Welcome to Straight Talking Sustainability I'm your host, Emma Burlow. If you're feeling lost in all the sustainability talk or struggling to see real results in your business, this podcast is for you. We’ll clear up the confusion and focus on practical, straightforward actions that actually work. Join me as I talk with experts, share real-world stories, and tackle the common roadblocks that stop...