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Curated experts in sustainability fields who can thoroughly elaborate their view based on their accumulated knowledge and experience

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Christopher Marquis

Professor
University of Cambridge

About

Christopher Marquis is the Sinyi Professor of Chinese Management at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School and the author of the award-winning books Better Business: How the B Corp Movement is Remaking Capitalism and Mao and Markets: The Communist Roots of Chinese Enterprise.

Chris has written over 20 peer-reviewed academic articles and published over 50 Harvard Business cases. He received a PhD in Sociology and Business Administration from the University of Michigan and served as Vice President and Technology Manager at JP Morgan Chase before returning to academia.
Passionate about how academic research can help people around the world address our most significant challenges, he examines how some of the biggest crises of our day —climate change, inequality, and racism — are intimately connected with how our current form of capitalism has prioritized accumulating and concentrating wealth for the few affects the concerns and needs of everyone and everything else. His research and writing focus on the need to rebalance the interactions between corporations, governments, and civil society to deliver socially and environmentally beneficial outcomes to all. 

December 12, 2024

Climate-Proofing Cities: Adapt, Innovate, Thrive


This week’s edition of Regenerative Insights centers on regenerative urban design—an approach that reimagines cities as thriving ecosystems, balancing human needs with environmental sustainability. From innovative transportation models to resilient infrastructure and nature-based solutions, the stories highlight how urban spaces can transform into sustainable and equitable environments for all. Leading the discussion is Brompton Bicycles’ initiative, Brompton Renewed, which integrates circular economy principles into urban mobility.

In our Essential Reads, we explore new ideas in urban design, including sustainable city frameworks, climate-resilient infrastructure, and the integration of Indigenous wisdom into urban planning. These cases reveal how holistic approaches are key to crafting cities that support both ecological balance and human well-being.

Our Research Corner dives into the potential of peri-urban areas as laboratories for innovation, showcasing how transitional spaces can drive systemic sustainability transformations. This perspective bridges traditional urban design with forward-looking, regenerative practices.

Announcing a new 3 day executive education program on Leading Regenerative Business at the Cambridge Judge Business School led by Christopher Marquis, click below for more information or feel free to email him directly with any questions!

Let’s dive into the strategies and ideas shaping the cities of tomorrow!

Featured Article:

My recent Forbes article on Brompton Bicycles, known for their iconic folding bikes, is about how the company not only promotes circular economy practices but also makes sustainable urban commuting more accessible. Their new program Brompton Renewed offers refurbished bikes at discounts of up to 20%, providing an affordable entry point for environmentally-conscious riders while promoting circular economy principles. The initiative ensures all bikes meet Brompton's rigorous quality standards, complete with a seven-year frame warranty, making each ride not only eco-friendly but dependable.

The company’s North American President Juliet Scott-Croxford highlights the dual benefits of waste reduction and enhanced accessibility for cycling enthusiasts. By giving bikes a second life, Brompton addresses the global waste crisis within the bicycle industry while fostering a deeper connection with customers. This approach aligns with the brand’s broader mission to enhance urban mobility and sustainability.

Through Brompton Renewed, the company not only reduces waste but also inspires consumers to rethink ownership and embrace products with lasting value.

Read more: A New Spin On Sustainability: Brompton Launches Platform For Refurbished Bikes

Essential Reads:

Scaling Climate-Resilient Surfaces

The Smart Surfaces Coalition launched a peer learning network to aid U.S. cities in adopting "smart surfaces" like cool pavements, green roofs, porous materials, and solar panels. Participants gain exclusive access to resources, funding, and policy tools, helping cities combat urban heat islands and flooding through innovative infrastructure.

Read more: New Group Wants to Help US Cities Scale Up Climate-Resilient ‘Smart Surfaces’

Designing Sustainable Cities

Imperial College London alumni gathered to explore how cities can address climate challenges while prioritizing health and sustainability. Discussions highlighted urban ecosystem design, behavioral change, policy integration, and community involvement. Alumni startups showcased innovative solutions like energy harnessing turbines, real-time health monitoring, and pollutant extraction technology to enhance urban resilience.

Read more: Imperial Alumni Design the Sustainable City of the Future

Beyond Infrastructure for Flood Control

Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, battles worsening floods with costly dikes and flood walls but faces criticism for mangrove and vegetation loss. Experts advocate integrating nature-based solutions, such as watershed restoration and mangrove replanting, to complement infrastructure and build long-term resilience against climate change impacts.

Read more: For a Storm-Prone Philippine City, Flood Control Is About More Than Infrastructure

Indigenous Wisdom and Regeneration

Keynotes at the recent Sustainable Brands conference in San Diego highlighted the integration of Indigenous knowledge, complexity theory, and regenerative approaches to create a future-proof economy. Indigenous communities, protecting 80% of global biodiversity, emerged as pivotal allies in conservation. Systems thinking and regenerative technologies were underscored as transformative solutions.

Read more: Embracing Complexity, Indigenous Wisdom and Regeneration for a Future-Proof Economy

Climate Resilience Framework

The Neighbourhood Futures framework outlines five capacities to tackle climate resilience and health equity in urban areas. This framework addresses vulnerabilities and fosters adaptive, transformative urban strategies against climate extremes, offering cross-disciplinary tools for systemic community resilience.

Read more: New Framework Designed to Embed Climate Resilience Into Urban Areas

Urban Climate Resilience

A new Economist Impact report reveals significant gaps in urban preparedness for climate change in 10 major cities. The report highlights resident concerns, key strategies, and case studies to improve resilience, emphasizing public-private collaboration, adaptive planning, and innovative infrastructure solutions.

Read more: Massive Challenges, Opportunities in Adapting Cities to Climate Change

Urban Transformation in Adelaide

The Thriving Suburbs program invests $34 million into nine South Australian projects to improve community infrastructure. Initiatives include revitalizing the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre and creating vibrant recreational spaces, fostering social cohesion and improving suburban livability across Adelaide.

Read more: Green Light for Community Projects in Adelaide

Research Corner:

Transformative Innovation in Peri-Urban Asia
Marshall and Dolley's insightful study in Research Policy delves into peri-urbanization in India and China, emphasizing its dual nature as a challenge and opportunity for sustainable development. The research highlights how rapid urbanization disrupts socio-technical and social-ecological systems, creating complex governance issues while offering unique contexts for transformative innovation. Key opportunities lie in renegotiating governance, reframing sustainability debates, and leveraging peri-urban dynamics for systemic change.

Read more: Transformative Innovation in Peri-Urban Asia

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Sustainable city design: Focus on health, community, and innovative urban solutions.

  • Smart surfaces adoption: Combat heat and floods with green roofs and cool pavements.

  • Leverage Indigenous wisdom: Protect biodiversity and foster regenerative economic practices.

  • Nature-based flood control: Pair infrastructure with mangroves and watershed restoration.

  • Urban resilience tools: Apply frameworks addressing climate and health vulnerabilities.

  • Collaborative climate action: Bridge resilience gaps through public-private partnerships.

  • Community revitalization: Boost suburban livability with targeted infrastructure projects.


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December 5, 2024

Planet, People, Purpose: The Journey Toward Regeneration


This week, we explore Regenerative Tourism which is focused on moving beyond sustainability to actively restore and enrich the destinations visited. As the tourism industry rebounds from recent global disruptions, innovative practices are redefining the sector's role in addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. From restoring ecosystems to empowering local communities, these initiatives are reshaping the way we travel.

Our featured article spotlights Intrepid Travel, a leader in purpose-driven tourism, whose resilience during the pandemic illustrates the commercial viability of aligning business strategies with sustainability principles. This ethos is echoed across global efforts, including inspiring conservation initiatives in the Galápagos, solutions to overtourism, and cutting-edge approaches like regenerative safaris and astro-tourism. Each highlights the potential of tourism to be a force for positive change.

Additionally, this week’s Research Corner delves into the ethical questions surrounding sustainable tourism. It challenges us to critically evaluate whether these practices are genuinely transformative or simply marketing-driven responses to conscious consumers.

Join us as we delve into the stories and strategies driving the regenerative tourism movement.

Featured Article:

Responsible Tourism: Intrepid Travel’s Resilience and Impact

In the wake of significant global challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, Intrepid Travel reaffirmed the viability of aligning sustainability with business resilience, which I discussed in a Forbes article about the company. As the world’s largest B Corp-certified travel company, Intrepid has demonstrated that prioritizing environmental, social, and governance principles is not only ethically sound but also commercially sustainable.

Founded in 1989, Intrepid began with a focus on small-group travel designed to benefit local communities by using local accommodations, transportation, and leadership. This ethos has grown into a comprehensive strategy to support wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and community empowerment, with over 200 new itineraries developed in recent years. Intrepid’s initiatives address critical global issues, including gender equality, disability support, and education, while enhancing travelers' experiences with authenticity and purpose.

Read more: Responsible And Resilient: Intrepid Travel Shows Doing Good Is Also Good For Business

Essential Reads:

Inspiring Conservation Leadership

The "Galápagos, My Responsibility" project fosters environmental education for children and youth on Santa Cruz Island, promoting conservation through radio broadcasts, storytelling workshops, and community discussions. Led by Alberto Andrade with Galápagos Conservancy support, this initiative inspires active engagement and leadership to protect the Galápagos' unique ecosystem.

Read more: Empowering the Galápagos Community to Protect Their Environment

Sustainable Travel Inspiration

Explore eco-friendly destinations like the Red Sea, Amsterdam, Singapore, Taipei, Glasgow, and Basel, each championing green initiatives from renewable energy to sustainable tourism. Airlines like Etihad, KLM, and flydubai are also committing to lower emissions, alternative fuels, and conservation efforts, enabling conscientious travelers to explore the world responsibly.

Read more: Travel with a Conscience

Addressing Overtourism Challenges

Japan grapples with overtourism as 30% of foreign visitors report overcrowding issues. Despite growing awareness of sustainable tourism, actions remain limited. Encouragingly, 63% of tourists are willing to pay extra fees to protect resources, with many adopting practices like reducing single-use waste and supporting local crafts, reflecting a shift towards sustainable travel.

Read more: Japan Tackles Mounting Overtourism Problem In Popular Destinations

Celestial Sustainability Leader

Dark Sky Alqueva, the world’s first certified Starlight Tourism Destination, won the 2024 World’s Responsible Tourism Award for its commitment to preserving night skies and promoting eco-conscious travel. This Portuguese astro-tourism destination blends environmental stewardship with unique stargazing and outdoor experiences, setting a global benchmark for sustainable tourism.

Read more: Dark Sky Alqueva Wins World’s Responsible Tourism Award 2024

Queenstown's Sustainable Charm

New Zealand’s Queenstown leads in sustainable tourism with eco-conscious hotels, regenerative wineries, and low-impact activities. From reimagined luxury at Sofitel to innovative dining and eco-lodges, this stunning region inspires responsible travel while preserving its natural beauty. Experience its breathtaking landscapes, sustainable indulgences, and community-driven initiatives on a short flight from Sydney.

Read more: This underrated overseas spot is a foodie heaven, and only a 3-hour flight.

Celebrating Rural Tourism Champions

The UN Tourism’s Best Tourism Villages 2024 recognizes 55 rural communities for sustainable tourism excellence. From Argentina’s Caviahue-Copahue to Vietnam’s Tra Que Vegetable Village, these destinations showcase eco-conscious innovation, cultural preservation, and community-driven growth. This initiative empowers rural areas as key players in sustainable development and global tourism.

Read more: UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages 2024: 55 Rural Communities Shaping the Future of Sustainable Travel

Regenerative Safaris: Conservation Meets Adventure

Regenerative safaris in Kenya blend thrilling wildlife encounters with impactful conservation. From anti-poaching efforts at Borana Conservancy to eco-certified lodges like Sasaab and Lengishu, these experiences champion sustainability, community engagement, and wildlife preservation. Tourists support local communities while exploring Africa's majestic landscapes responsibly.

Read more: The Rise and Rise of Regenerative Safaris

Reimagining Jasper's Tourism Future

Following devastating wildfires, Jasper faces a pivotal moment to reshape its tourism model. By prioritizing sustainability, local ownership, and climate resilience, Jasper can shift from an extractive system to one that reinvests in community recovery, ecological restoration, and visitor education, creating a regenerative tourism future.

Read more: Ashes of a Broken System: Reimagining Jasper’s Tourism Future, Post-Wildfire

Research Corner:

In the Journal of Business Ethics, Lansing and de Vries critically examine the concept of sustainable tourism, questioning whether it serves as a genuine ethical alternative to mass tourism or simply functions as a marketing strategy targeting socially conscious travelers. The authors highlight the environmental and cultural damage caused by conventional tourism and explore whether sustainable tourism practices can meaningfully address these issues. By dissecting the ethical implications and commercial motives, the article encourages practitioners and policymakers to scrutinize the authenticity of sustainability claims in the tourism industry.

Read more: Sustainable Tourism: Ethical Alternative or Marketing Ploy?

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Youth-led conservation: Galápagos project inspires eco-leadership among children through education and community action.

  • Eco-friendly travel: Destinations like Singapore and Basel champion green tourism and sustainability.

  • Overtourism solutions: Japan explores sustainable practices with tourists open to conservation fees.

  • Astro-tourism excellence: Dark Sky Alqueva leads in preserving night skies and eco-travel.

  • Rural tourism recognition: UN highlights villages excelling in sustainable tourism and cultural preservation.

  • Regenerative safaris: Kenyan safaris blend conservation with community-focused travel.

  • Post-crisis tourism: Jasper prioritizes sustainability and resilience after wildfires.


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November 28, 2024

Driving Forward: Innovations in Low-Carbon Transportation


This week, we’re diving into the innovations pushing low-carbon transportation forward across the globe. Our Featured Article showcases how Goodwings, a B Corporation based in Denmark, is addressing the sustainability gap in the travel sector is addressing this challenge by making biofuel accessible and affordable, enabling businesses to decarbonize trips efficiently and move beyond traditional offsetting. 

In our Essential Reads, we highlight a range of transformative projects. From a solar-powered e-motorcycle trekking across Africa to Abu Dhabi’s AI-driven mobility and Girteka’s emissions-cutting logistics program spotlight diverse paths toward decarbonizing transportation. 

In Research Corner, a study from Production and Operations Management offers a cautionary view on automated vehicles (AVs). While AVs are hailed as efficient, their popularity could draw riders away from public transit, potentially worsening urban congestion. Policies promoting sustainable AV use will be key to achieving lasting urban mobility improvements.

Let’s delve into these innovations reshaping our journey toward a low-carbon future!

Featured Article:

Making Business Travel Greener

In a recent Forbes article, I delve into how Copenhagen-based travel provider Goodwings is disrupting the aviation industry. By reallocating hotel booking revenues to fund biofuels and carbon offsets, Goodwings empowers businesses to cut emissions from their travel. This innovative model enables companies to reduce flight emissions by up to 100% on domestic trips—all while offering affordable rates compared to traditional biofuel purchasing.

Goodwings’ approach bridges a critical gap between sustainability goals and practical implementation, making decarbonization accessible for more businesses. CEO Christian Møller-Holst highlights how this strategy aligns with both the Paris Agreement and evolving sustainability standards, driving impact while maintaining transparency through third-party audits. This initiative exemplifies how industry-specific solutions can drive environmental change.

Read more: Goodwings Is Accelerating The Decarbonization Of Business Travel By Making Biofuel Affordable

Essential Reads:

Solar-Powered Journey Across Africa

A solar-powered e-motorcycle built in Africa completed a 6,000-km journey from Kenya to South Africa, highlighting the continent's commitment to sustainable mobility. Designed for African terrain by Stellenbosch University and Roam, this journey demonstrated renewable energy's potential for remote regions, overcoming challenges and inspiring communities with clean transportation innovation.

Read more: From Kenya to South Africa on a solar-powered e-motorcycle

Sustainable Logistics Innovation

Girteka's Alternative Fuel Programme (AFP) uses Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) to help customers reduce road transport emissions by up to 90%, aligning with EU climate goals. The program offers transparent, traceable emissions data, enhancing corporate sustainability reports and reputation while supporting decarbonization in logistics.

Read more: Alternative Fuel Programme to Accelerate Sustainable Logistics

Abu Dhabi Mobility Wins Seoul Smart City Prize for Tech Innovation

Abu Dhabi Mobility’s STEAM+ framework has won the Seoul Smart City Prize in the Tech-InnovaCity category. Utilizing AI and big data, STEAM+ analyzes mobility patterns and predicts future transport needs, advancing smart, sustainable urban transport. This achievement underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to innovative, eco-friendly urban mobility solutions and enhances its global reputation in smart transportation.

Read more: The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) wins the Seoul Smart City Prize

Accelerating the Green Transition in Mobility

The mobility sector lags in reducing emissions, due to legacy systems, rigid regulations, and traditional procurement practices. Startups could drive innovation with fresh ideas, tech-first approaches, and diverse, sustainable transport options. Policy shifts supporting startups are essential to enable the low-carbon transformation needed to meet global climate goals.

Read more: The mobility sector's green transition has been slow – here’s how we speed things up

eVTOL Logistics Collaboration

ADNOC, AD Ports Group, e&, and Multi Level Group signed an agreement to explore eVTOL-based logistics, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize carbon emissions. This collaboration, backed by Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in sustainable, autonomous transport innovation, supporting the UAE’s technological and environmental goals.

Read more: ADNOC and Partners Explore eVTOL Logistics Operations

Expanding EV Charging Through IoT

AT&T partners with Voltpost to retrofit lampposts with IoT-enabled EV charging points across Michigan. This collaboration enhances connectivity, cuts installation costs, and supports sustainable urban infrastructure, making EV charging more accessible for communities. The initiative aligns with AT&T’s “gigaton goal” to reduce emissions and Voltpost’s mission for affordable, modular EV charging solutions.

Read more: AT&T, Voltpost Expand EV Charging Access

Intelligent Rail Transformation

Geospatial Ventures Ltd's ASLAN system, part of BCIMO's Clean Futures Accelerator, uses GNSS technology to improve rail safety, efficiency, and environmental impact. With precise navigation and positioning, ASLAN enhances fuel efficiency, reduces operational costs, and supports the sustainability of rail infrastructure, particularly for Very Light Rail systems.

Read more: ASLAN: Revolutionising rail with intelligent geospatial solutions

Research Corner:

In the article “Unintended consequences of automated vehicles and pooling for urban transportation systems” published in Production and Operations Management, Naumov, Keith, and Fine (2020) examine the paradoxical effects of automated vehicles (AVs) on urban transit. While AVs and pooling are often seen as greener and more efficient solutions, this study warns that their popularity may pull riders away from public transit, further worsening congestion and decreasing transit quality. The researchers highlight the need for policies that discourage excess driving if AVs are to promote genuinely sustainable urban mobility.

Read more: Unintended consequences of automated vehicles and pooling for urban transportation systems

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Solar Mobility Feasibility: A solar-powered e-motorcycle journey proves clean mobility in remote regions is possible.

  • Greener Logistics: Girteka’s fuel program cuts transport emissions by 90%, aiding corporate sustainability.

  • Smart Mobility in Abu Dhabi: STEAM+ uses AI for efficient, sustainable urban transit solutions.

  • Boosting Low-Carbon Innovation: Startups can accelerate sustainable transport with fresh, tech-forward ideas.

  • eVTOL for Logistics: Abu Dhabi explores eVTOL to cut emissions and enhance transport efficiency.

  • Expanded EV Charging: AT&T’s IoT lamppost chargers increase EV access, supporting urban sustainability.

  • Sustainable Rail Tech: ASLAN’s GNSS enhances rail safety and fuel use, supporting eco-friendly transit.


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November 21, 2024

From Farm to Future: Innovations Shaping Sustainable Food


This week’s newsletter dives into the theme of sustainable food systems, highlighting innovations and practices that are reshaping how we grow, produce, and consume food. In a recent Forbes article, I explored Milkadamia’s "Flat Pack" oat milk sheets—an important move toward reducing waste and embracing regenerative farming. This innovation not only redefines delivery of plant-based milk but also offers a model for preemptively addressing packaging and transportation emissions.

Our Essential Reads feature other important efforts, such as sustainable protein production that slashes energy costs, smarter food safety regulations, and empowering smallholder farmers with co-designed farming methods in Malawi. We also look at transformative global movements, including agroecological rights advocacy and the call for a radical overhaul of food and energy systems at the APEC Summit. These stories emphasize the critical importance of collaboration and inclusivity in driving change.

In this week’s Research Corner, we delve into a study on how technology can revolutionize the food production-consumption chain, reducing waste and ensuring equitable distribution. These insights underscore the potential for innovation to tackle food insecurity and waste while advancing global sustainability goals.

Join us as we explore these inspiring efforts to build healthier, more sustainable food systems. Let’s dive in!

Featured Article:

Sheet-Form Oat Milk: A Bold Move Toward Sustainable Food Systems

In my recent Forbes piece, I delved into innovation in sustainable food systems by Milkadamia. The company’s new "Flat Pack" oat milk sheets are redefining plant-based milk production, reducing packaging waste by 94% and transportation weight by 85%. This innovation addresses the dual challenges of scaling plant-based products and mitigating environmental impact in the growing $7.3 billion market.

The company’s “pre-cycling,” approach focuses on waste reduction at the design stage, moving beyond traditional recycling. Complementing this is Milkadamia’s commitment to regenerative farming. Their “free-range trees” thrive in natural ecosystems, needing no irrigation or artificial inputs, embodying the ethos of growing crops where they belong.

Flat Pack is more than a packaging innovation—it represents a shift in consumer habits. By requiring "some assembly," it reintroduces hands-on preparation, transforming convenience into a mindful act. Launching early next year, this product invites individuals to engage in a personal revolution against waste while contributing to a collective movement toward sustainability.

Read more: Milkadamia's Sheet-Form Milk: Innovating Sustainability In Plant-Based Products

Essential Reads:

Sustainable Protein Innovation

Happy Plant Protein secures €1.8m funding to revolutionize plant protein production, cutting costs by 90% and energy use by 85%. Its sustainable process creates high-protein functional foods and empowers local manufacturers, reducing reliance on imports and global supply chains.

Read more: Happy Plant Protein secures €1.8m to develop and license its plant-based protein ingredients

Food Safety Reforms

FSA Chair Professor Susan Jebb addresses the cost of food safety regulation and the price of failure at City University's Food Thinkers seminar. She advocates smarter regulation, better data use, and enhanced collaboration to ensure a safe, healthy, and sustainable food system.

Read more: FSA Chair's speech to City University's Food Thinkers seminar

Advocating Peasants' Rights

La Via Campesina joins the UN Working Group on Peasants' Rights, emphasizing agroecology, food sovereignty, and combating structural dispossession. The session discussed implementing UNDROP to protect rural communities, biodiversity, and human rights, while addressing challenges like corporate control and inequitable trade systems.

Read more: Food Systems for People | Peasants' Rights

Co-Designing Sustainable Farming

In Malawi, the Mixed Farming Systems initiative empowers smallholder farmers, particularly women and youth, to co-design intercropping innovations like Mbili Mbili. This participatory approach enhances soil health, crop productivity, and social inclusion, fostering gender equity and environmental sustainability through tailored farming solutions.

Read more: Farmer voices shaping co-design of innovations for sustainable mixed farming systems in Malawi

Contract Farming for Growth

Experts advocate contract farming to stabilize African agriculture, enhance farmer incomes, and reduce production risks. This approach ensures market access, technical support, and financial stability for smallholders while addressing climate challenges and food system complexities.

Read more: Experts Push Contract Farming to Boost Africa Food Systems, Farmers’ Income

Transforming Food and Energy Systems

At the APEC Summit, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu emphasized radical changes in food systems to reduce $400 billion in food loss, enhance clean energy use, and meet global nutrition needs. Innovations, investments, and a just energy transition are vital to achieve sustainable growth and the "Four Betters."

Read more: APEC Summit: FAO says radical transformation needed to address food loss and energy transition

Sustainable Food Leadership

Bryan Flower, NIU's assistant director for food systems innovation, leads the Edible Campus project promoting sustainability through "free-to-pick" gardens. At home, he runs Red Home Farm, practicing regenerative agriculture with grass-fed livestock, embodying his global culinary expertise and passion for sustainable food systems.

Read more: NIU’s Flower grows sustainable approach to food production

Advancing Agricultural Innovation

CropLife International, led by CEO Emily Rees, champions agricultural innovation to tackle global challenges like food security, climate change, and biodiversity loss. By advocating for sustainable practices, intellectual property protection, and multilateral trade, the organization fosters resilience in global agriculture through cutting-edge technologies and international collaboration.

Read more: Building Resilience: The Future of Agriculture with CropLife International

Research Corner:

This study from the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science highlights how technology can revolutionize the food production-consumption chain. It presents a 2×2 typology showcasing how innovations influence food production, distribution, and waste reduction, ultimately contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger) and 12 (sustainable consumption). By identifying gaps in existing solutions, the authors offer a roadmap for technology-driven strategies to reduce food loss and waste while boosting equitable distribution. This framework paves the way for practical advancements that align with global sustainability efforts.

Read more: The food production–consumption chain: Fighting food insecurity, loss, and waste with technology

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Affordable Plant Protein: Cutting costs and energy boosts sustainable food production locally.

  • Smart Food Safety: Data-driven regulation ensures healthier, sustainable food systems.

  • Rights for Farmers: Supporting agroecology protects rural livelihoods and biodiversity.

  • Co-Designed Farming: Farmer-led innovations improve soil health and gender equity.

  • Contract Farming: Stabilizing incomes strengthens African food systems.

  • System Transformation: Overhauling food and energy systems tackles loss and boosts nutrition.

  • Edible Gardens: Community projects promote regenerative food practices.

  • Agri-Tech Leadership: Innovation and collaboration foster global agricultural resilience.


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November 15, 2024

Closing the Loop: Regenerative Approaches to Waste Reduction


This week's spotlight on waste reduction showcases innovations across industries that are rethinking traditional waste practices. Our Featured Article highlights Better Earth's compostable packaging, which not only reduces plastic pollution but also promotes soil health and carbon sequestration through composting. This case exemplifies the potential of regenerative solutions to close the loop on waste in the foodservice industry.

In our Essential Reads, we're seeing breakthrough efforts across sectors. The UNDP and Circular Innovation Lab are spearheading initiatives to tackle plastic pollution through circular economy principles. Meanwhile, Clean Food Group is turning food waste into valuable oils for cosmetics, and Rice University researchers are using bioengineered microorganisms to address plastic breakdown. Each of these efforts demonstrates the power of regenerative thinking to minimize waste and create value.

Our Research Corner features an important study by Akkaş and Gaur (2022), outlining how Operations Management can reduce global food waste. With insights on supply chain technology and business model innovation, the paper offers a roadmap for addressing this urgent issue.

Let's delve into these inspiring stories and discover actionable ways to incorporate waste reduction into our own work!

Featured Article: 

Compostable Packaging

Better Earth is transforming the foodservice packaging industry with compostable products that tackle environmental issues like greenhouse gas emissions, plastic pollution, and soil degradation. In this Forbes article, CEO Joseph Bild tells me how the company’s packaging diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions and enhancing soil health through composting. By utilizing rapidly renewable, plant-based materials, they offer a regenerative and circular alternative to traditional plastics. The company emphasizes innovation in product development, ensuring that their solutions meet both functional needs and sustainability goals. Achieving B Corp certification, Better Earth demonstrates a strong commitment to mission-driven growth and environmental stewardship. Their Climate Smart Farmer’s Fiber collection, made from native perennial grasses, supports rural economies, improves soil health, and sequesters carbon. Through partnerships and sustainable practices, Better Earth aims to make regenerative circularity achievable within the foodservice industry.

Read more: Eliminating Food Packaging Waste Through Regenerative Agriculture

Essential Reads:

Circular Economy Initiative

The UNDP and Circular Innovation Lab launched a joint initiative to promote circular economy solutions to combat plastic pollution. The initiative fosters collaboration across sectors and emphasizes sustainable practices that create economic opportunities, protect ecosystems, and reduce waste. The gathering in Istanbul aimed to drive a shift towards renewable energy and inclusive policies.

Read more: UNDP, Danish think tank launch initiative to combat plastic pollution

Sustainable Cosmetics Innovation

Clean Food Group has partnered with THG LABS to transform food waste into sustainable, high-performance oils for the cosmetics industry. This collaboration aims to replace agriculturally intensive ingredients with bio-equivalents using innovative technology. By utilizing food waste, the partnership promotes eco-friendly and effective raw materials in beauty products.

Read more: Clean Food Group partners with THG LABS to harness the power of cutting-edge oils and fats technology powered by food waste

Bioengineered Microorganisms Tackle Plastic Waste

Rice University researchers have developed bioengineered microorganisms using mussel-inspired adhesive properties to break down plastic waste. By enhancing bacterial adhesion and combining it with plastic-degrading enzymes, this innovation offers a new solution for addressing plastic pollution, particularly PET plastic, and biofouling in industries like shipping and healthcare.

Read more: Bioengineered microorganisms offer new tool for plastic waste breakdown

Seafood Freshness Innovation

Green Iceberg's PicoICE™ technology rapidly chills fish with ultra-small ice particles, enhancing seafood freshness and reducing food waste. This scalable, energy-efficient solution cuts bacterial growth and extends shelf life, offering the seafood industry a powerful tool to maintain cold chains, lower refrigeration costs, and reduce spoilage.

Read more: Responsible Fisheries Innovation Award finalist: Green Iceberg’s seafood freshness and food waste solution

Suffolk AD Facility Revamp

Bio Capital and Adnams Brewery will modernize an anaerobic digestion (AD) facility in Reydon, Suffolk, to meet upcoming food waste regulations. The facility will convert organic waste into renewable energy, fuel Adnams' fleet, and power its brewery. This project supports Suffolk’s sustainability goals, reduces carbon emissions, and creates local jobs.

Read more: Suffolk brewery to modernise its AD facility

Tackling Food Waste in Saudi Arabia

UNDP Saudi Arabia and Green Circle co-hosted an event for International Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day, focusing on sustainable waste management and environmental solutions. The event showcased successful initiatives like agricultural waste recycling and biofuel production from cooking oils, promoting innovative approaches to sustainability and economic growth in Saudi Arabia.

Read more: UNDP Saudi Arabia and Green Circle co-host an inspiring event for International Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day

Research Corner:

A study by Akkaş and Gaur (2022) in Manufacturing & Service Operations Managementfocuses on the global issue of food waste, where nearly one-third of food produced is discarded. The paper outlines how the Operations Management field can play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge, proposing a research agenda around five key themes: supply chain technology, logistics, incentives, business model innovation, and behavioral operations. This agenda offers valuable insights for both academia and practice.

Read more: Reducing Food Waste: An Operations Management Research Agenda

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility and social equity through the waste practice lens explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Circular plastic initiative: The UNDP promotes a circular economy to combat plastic pollution, advancing renewable energy and sustainable policies.

  • Eco-friendly cosmetics: Clean Food Group transforms food waste into bio-oils, reducing the cosmetics industry's reliance on agricultural ingredients.

  • Plastic breakdown tech: Rice University’s microorganisms break down PET plastics, offering new solutions to plastic waste and biofouling.

  • Seafood freshness solution: PicoICE™ tech extends seafood shelf life, reducing food waste through energy-efficient refrigeration innovations.

  • Renewable energy from waste: Revamped AD facility in Suffolk converts food waste into renewable energy, helping to meet local sustainability goals.

  • Saudi waste management: UNDP and Green Circle showcase sustainable solutions, including biofuel from cooking oil, to tackle food waste in Saudi Arabia.


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