Green supply chains have emerged as a mainstay of sustainability initiatives, vowing to shrink carbon footprints and herald a new era of sustainable manufacturing and distribution. But as corporations around the world push for greener practices, we have to ask: are these supply chains actually cutting emissions, or are they just a band-aid for a bigger issue?
Green supply chains are at the core of the promise to reduce the environmental impact while ensuring operational efficiency. More companies are adopting renewable energy integration, waste reduction, low-carbon logistics, and other measures. For example, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), nearly 30% of global electricity generation now comes from renewable energy—with some of that transition driven by the push from businesses to go to clean energy. However, although this work is admirable, the degree of its success is critically reliant on the broader systemic changes that must take place in networked supply chains.
One of the critical stages in green supply chains is the sourcing of raw materials. Electric vehicles (EVs), for example, are powered by lithium-ion batteries that use elements like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. These materials often originate from areas with serious environmental and ethical concerns. The demand for critical minerals such as lithium, the World Bank predicts, will increase nearly 500% by 2050. Companies like Tesla and BMW have focused on blockchain and other measures to ensure ethical sourcing, something that remains a challenge when factoring in the carbon emissions associated with mining and transporting these materials. COP27’s EMU report drew on a 2022 EPA study, which estimated that the extraction and processing of these minerals can make up as much as 40% of the total lifecycle emissions produced by an EV battery.
Another urgent challenge has been the resilience of green supply chains. It highlighted weaknesses in global logistics with the COVID-19 pandemic, as 85% of renewable energy companies reported disruptions. Regionalization and diversification of suppliers can help mitigate such risks, but these strategies typically incur costs. Localized manufacturing, for instance, can eliminate some transportation emissions, but if those regional facilities are powered by fossil fuels, that could create increased energy use. A 2023 report by McKinsey noted that companies that do not fully optimize their regional supply chains “risk increasing their overall carbon footprint, despite their green intentions.”
Some of these challenges could be effectively met through circular economy practices. Zero waste and zero emissions can be replaced with the productive reuse of the process and the recycling of materials. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor 2020, only 17.4% of e-waste is recycled, and this presents a huge opportunity. Indeed, battery recycling projects, like those of Umicore, work on the principle of a closed process where reuse leads to less dependence on virgin forms of material and subsequently emissions. Scaling these practices will require significant investment and coordination on a global scale, as appropriate recycling infrastructure is lacking in many areas.
Digital transformation is yet another technology touted as a game-changer for green supply chains. AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) facilitate seamless tracking, forecasting, and optimization of resources. A 2023 Deloitte study discovered that there is a potential to reduce supply chain emissions by as much as 30% through digital tools. Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, for instance, can measure energy consumption and detect inefficiencies on a live basis, whereas AI analytics can plan logistics in a way that reduces fuel usage. Read more on the impact of technology on the environment and production: Experts warn of carbon glut from soaring number of computers. For example, a large server complex may consume as much energy as a small city, and the materials needed to manufacture and maintain these digital systems can be quite extensive.
To address the multiple challenges posed by green supply chains, stakeholders need to collaborate. It takes governments, corporations, and consumers working together to create standards and incentives for sustainability. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reported that public-private partnerships have already mobilized over $2 trillion for clean energy projects since 2015. However, substantial cuts in emissions will require changes well beyond capital deployment and even regulatory structures and consumer behavior. For example, organizations like the RE100 coalition, in which companies join to aim for 100% renewable energy, show the potential for collective action, though also the importance of accountability and transparency.
Overall, although there is a great potential contribution of green supply chains to emissions reduction, the current impact is uneven. Many efforts are either make-work projects that are not integrated into operations, or they simply rely on what I describe as a greenwashing meme, where large organizations claim goals and achievements that sound good but aren’t based on an integrated approach to operations. This will require more than gradual steps toward green supply chains; it means developing integrated approaches that address the entire supply chain from material extraction through to end-of-use recycling. The journey to real sustainable supply chains is a long and winding one, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The transition to effective, transparent, and truly green supply chains has never been more urgent as climate change speeds up. Corporates who can crack this nut will be able to achieve lower carbon footprints while building a blueprint for a sustainable future and demonstrating that economic development and protection of the environment can be mutually reinforcing.”
HKU and CATL Sign Strategic Cooperation MOU
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) signed a strategic cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Ningde, Fujian, on 6 June 2025 to advance comprehensive collaboration.
Leveraging Hong Kong’s international profile and its strengths as a global financial centre, along with the HKSAR Government’s commitment to carbon neutrality, the agreement focuses on three key areas:
Key Areas of Collaboration
• Formulating international zero-carbon policy standards
• Driving zero-carbon technological innovation
• Accelerating the transition to zero-carbon energy
This collaboration combines CATL’s leading expertise in zero-carbon technology with HKU’s research excellence to jointly establish an international platform for industry-academia-research cooperation, fostering global talent development and accelerating innovations to achieve carbon neutrality.
The MOU was signed by representatives from the Zero-Carbon Energy Business Unit (ZEB) of CATL and the International Centre for Climate and Nature (ICCN). The ceremony was attended by Professor Peng Gong, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic Development) of HKU, and Mr. Yingming Wu, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and Ecological Development Committee of CATL. Also present were Professor Guochun Zhao, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Professor Jingming Chen, Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, along with representatives from ICCN and various CATL departments.
Key Areas of Cooperation
• Aligning international zero-carbon policies and standards
• Deepening zero-carbon technological innovation
• Accelerating the global transition to zero-carbon energy
As part of the policy and standardization efforts, both parties will work together to advance international standards for battery carbon footprint accounting.
On the innovation front, ICCN and CATL will integrate the AI-powered Earth Observation for Sustainable Development Platform (iSG) with advanced grid technologies. This will support applications in integrated power sources, smart grids, load management, energy storage systems, and virtual power plants.
For the energy transition, Hong Kong will serve as a model city, piloting scalable zero-carbon solutions across electricity grids, buildings, and transportation sectors. The collaboration will also explore innovative carbon financing mechanisms to support the development of carbon markets and strengthen alignment with international carbon standards.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in creating an ecosystem for academic and industry collaboration aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. By uniting world-class academic institutions and industry leaders, this joint initiative will meaningfully contribute to the global energy transition and carbon neutrality goals, guiding the international community toward a greener, more sustainable, zero-carbon future.
About CATL
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) is a global leader in new energy technology innovation, dedicated to providing advanced solutions and services for new energy applications worldwide.
In June 2018, CATL was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 300750), and in May 2025, the company was also listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 03750). In 2024, CATL ranked No. 1 globally in EV battery consumption volume for the eighth consecutive year and held the top market share in global energy storage battery shipments for four consecutive years. CATL is widely recognized by EV and energy storage partners worldwide.
In 2023, CATL announced its strategic goals of achieving carbon neutrality in its core operations by 2025 and across the entire battery supply chain by 2035, reaffirming its commitment to contributing to the global energy transition.
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Please tell us about your journey?
It is important to realise — We clean our house to make the bigger house, the planet, unclean.
We are Ceiba Green Solutions, a waste management startup based in Bhubaneswar. We started in 2019 when I went on an expedition close to the North Pole, which was part of the 2041 Foundation. The expedition was based on raising awareness about climate change at the Polar regions . Here I witnessed lots of waste such as plastic bottles, cigarettes and fishing nets even in these higher regions. This had a tremendous impact on me and on return to Odisha, I became extremely sensitised to waste around me. That’s when I realised that if I wanted to do something about dealing with this waste, I had to be part of the solution.
Then Covid struck and the intensity of operations could not be what we had planned. Also, since we were new, we were trying to navigate these waters. In the meanwhile, we kept the operations on the ground running through online workshops and training sessions. Then in 2021, I went to the UK to pursue a Masters, where my thesis was also on waste management. On my return, I completely focussed on the startup.
What is the focus of your organisation?
The focus of Ceba is primarily wet waste management, single-use plastics organising, waste-free events and last but not least, raising awareness. Under wet waste management, we are focussing on providing composting services to bulk waste generators (such as hotels, restaurants, schools and colleges and even government institutions which generate canteen waste) as well as individual households.
Yes, we put out the statistics on our website as we are planning to become more transparent as part of our initiative. Under the dry waste management, we launched the Recycle Pay app. We got a lot of traction because of it and acceptance in our base city Bhubaneswar. It’s an app where people can conveniently pick up a date, time and slot and request for waste pick up from their house and are also paid for the waste generated. This way, we are trying to incentivise people to micro-segregate their waste.
People not segregating their waste is actually life threatening, especially for the sanitary workers.
Under single-use plastic waste management, we have an e-commerce platform, where we have curated various products from various vendors — and all are single-use plastic-free. This is our way of providing alternatives and really helpful in people reducing their consumption for the same.
Further, we are raising awareness through our work with many institutes, especially educational.
As far as waste-free events go, we want to do much more but haven’t yet found the scope in Bhubaneswar. We look forward to work with event managers who conduct large scale events.
What is your vision and expansion plan?
Our vision is to reduce the volume of waste that goes to the landfills and thus curb GHE emissions, we want to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and make more local impact as much as possible. We want to scale to other cities, especially Odisha and Eastern India. We are mostly looking at Tier 11 cities. Instead of spreading out too much, we would prefer to make a deeper impact in fewer locations. There are other players and competitors in other cities who are working towards this waste issue. We all have to grow together and we look forward to collaborating with them.
What advise would you like to give to individuals wanting to start their green business?
Firstly, not everyone needs to become an entrepreneur if they want to take climate action. You can do it by being part of various groups who are concerned about climate change. You could even do your bit as an individual to fulfil your responsibility towards the environment by taking action.
But if you are looking forward to starting your venture, it’s a must to study and understand the sector in which you are working very closely. Finding a good mentor at the initial stages is also crucial. This is because you might have a good understanding of the technology, but maybe not of the business. Moreover, be a part of incubators and various eco systems that support channelising your energy.
Any lessons learnt during your journey that you would like to share with us?
I was very lucky to get guidance and support from my husband who is a first-generation entrepreneur. It’s most important to have a sound business model. You might be very passionate about something, but once you are running a business, it is indispensable that you make money for the business to be sustainable. Importantly, be honest with what you are doing. And since it is a green business, you have to be true to the environment and the citizens. You can’t ‘greenwash’.
How has being a green entrepreneur impacted your personal values?
I think it’s been the vice versa in my case. My love for the outdoors has come into bringing this business to life. I want to reach more and more people because the more we spread, the more the environment will benefit. Finally, we all will live better lives.
Do you think the time for green businesses is here?
Yes. Green entrepreneurship is rising and I say that there are five basic areas which will see a boom – manufacturing, our eating habits (how we grow and ), how we travel, how we plug in (energy efficiency) and overall, how we live.
For businesses to positively impact the environment, they need to realise their bit. For example, if it is a mining company, they have to have a certain kind of environmental mandate. Even in the case of software companies, they need to realise their responsibilities in the form of maybe CSR.
People are becoming more aware and I always say that we may not need smart cities, but we definitely need smarter citizens. That’s how we can help smartly impact the environment.
QUESTION — Can you please introduce yourself and your role in the green business? Tell us about your journey and your motivations.
I’m an engineer, specializing in electronics, software, and firmware. My primary focus is designing and coding embedded systems, those small control devices that are ubiquitous in our world. This interest stemmed from helping my grandfather, a TV repairman, in his shop as a child. His mentorship instilled in me the belief that technology was accessible to anyone willing to learn. Thus, I delved into books and self-learning, bypassing formal education initially.
Despite not attending college at first, I immersed myself in technology. I was captivated by early computers and machines, eventually working for companies that supplied components for these systems. My career progressed from technical sales to management roles, driven by my passion for technology. Even without a formal degree, I honed my skills through continuous learning and hands-on projects.
I eventually pursued education part-time, earning a two-year degree followed by a bachelor’s degree later in life. However, I consider myself largely self-taught, constantly seeking knowledge from experts and experimenting with new ideas. My journey underscores the importance of sharing knowledge and leveraging technology for societal benefit.
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, I co-founded a company focused on designing beneficial solutions. This transition was prompted by a disconnect between my role as a director of engineering and my passion for hands-on projects. My friend and I shared this sentiment, leading us to start our venture.
Reflecting on my journey, I attribute my interest in exploring different cultures and environments to childhood experiences. Traveling, whether to remote beaches in Mexico or business trips abroad, has broadened my perspective and fueled my curiosity. I’ve always been drawn to unfamiliar places, eager to learn from diverse communities and experiences.
In summary, my career trajectory underscores the importance of curiosity, a desire to make a positive impact, and a willingness to embrace new challenges and environments. These qualities have shaped my journey as a technologist and social entrepreneur, guiding me towards endeavors that blend innovation with social responsibility.
QUESTION – What are some of the biggest lessons that have shaped you as a human?
Exploring unusual places offers insights that are often overlooked in urban settings. These environments can teach valuable lessons about longevity, health, and connection to nature. For instance, documentaries showcasing lifestyles in Puerto Rico and other South American regions highlight healthier living habits, resulting in a higher number of centenarians. These experiences provide a different perspective on happiness, health, family dynamics, and the concept of abundance. Overall, such perspectives enrich our understanding of humanity and shape us in profound ways.
QUESTION — What motivated you in the field of becoming a green entrepreneur? Were there any turning points or specific incidents?
Working alongside my friend Kurt Coleman at Microchip, a microcontroller manufacturer, I got involved in his side project called Light Up the World. It was an off-the-books endeavor, occupying our weekends and spare time. This experience was more fulfilling to me than any meeting, promotion, or stock grant could ever be. It sparked the realization that I could use my skills for meaningful community impact. Prior to this, I had volunteered in various capacities but hadn’t found a way to align my work skills with community needs.
Designing products for underserved communities opened my eyes to the challenges they face—unsafe water, polluted air, lack of electricity, and inadequate government services. Despite the sacrifices involved, the work was rewarding in itself. Collaborating with Kurt on projects like UV water purification was fulfilling, but I recognize that our success was part of a larger team effort. Our work has contributed to improving hygiene and lighting in villages, and other organizations have benefited from our expertise. It’s satisfying to see the ripple effect of our contributions, knowing that we’ve played a part in positive change.
QUESTION — Can you highlight some innovative or unique aspects of your sustainable business model?
Learning from failure is crucial in any endeavour. There are various pathways to success, but two common approaches are organic growth and immediate skill application. The former involves cultivating a seed over time, which is sustainable but less likely to succeed quickly. Conversely, the latter requires identifying and immediately utilizing a skill, which may yield quicker results but can be challenging to navigate.
People often enter this space from diverse backgrounds. Some start from grassroots efforts, like individuals in Guatemala developing water purification solutions over years. Others involve collaborating with locals to address specific needs, such as improving stove efficiency to reduce indoor air pollution.
Successful projects often prioritize tangible solutions over complex technologies. For example, in Guatemala, educating communities about water cleanliness proved more impactful than introducing UV purification systems. Similarly, addressing indoor air pollution involved showing villagers the immediate health risks and providing simple, effective stove designs.
Ultimately, the best projects focus on localized, sustainable solutions that address immediate needs without leaving behind complex technology or products.
QUESTION — What were the challenges you encountered and how did you overcome those?
Several challenges have left a lasting impact, notably the 2008 economic downturn. Our projects in various countries, like India, Mexico, and Uganda, faced setbacks as partners struggled with layoffs and budget cuts.
We pursued a model of partnering with established Western companies to expand into new markets. For example, we collaborated with BioLite to distribute clean-burning stoves in Africa and India. Similarly, we worked with companies like CamelBak and Cascade Design on water purifiers and electric chlorinators.
However, relying too heavily on these partnerships posed risks. While joining forces with larger companies offered resources, it also made us vulnerable to their decisions. Maintaining a degree of self-sufficiency is crucial to mitigate such risks.
Partnering with industry giants like Unilever can yield significant benefits, but it also carries the risk of dependence. Finding a balance between leveraging resources and maintaining autonomy is key to navigating such collaborations successfully.
QUESTION — How do you measure the environmental impact of your business? (Will be adding data to this once Dan provides it)
There are instances when quantifying impact is feasible, especially with commodities like solar home systems, where daily power generation can be measured. Similarly, interventions in areas like Guatemala, targeting stove usage or water handling, allow us to track indicators such as the reduction in dysentery cases or improved school attendance.
While these measurements provide indicators rather than definitive proof, sometimes you have to rely on intuition and observation. You can sense the positive changes, like increased happiness among people, even if it’s not quantifiable. Moreover, the infrastructure itself often yields benefits beyond the immediate outcomes, such as job creation and skill development.
By teaching individuals skills like water analysis or stove maintenance, you leave behind a legacy of technological empowerment, enriching their lives in ways that extend beyond the initial intervention.
QUESTION — How do you envision the future of sustainable entrepreneurship worldover?
Progress often takes unexpected paths. Sometimes it’s not about technological breakthroughs, but rather the acceptance of existing technology. For instance, solar panels and LEDs have been around for decades, but innovations like white LEDs have made significant differences. Moreover, new distribution networks and finance models, such as pay-as-you-go and micro-lending, have enabled previously non-existent business models.
Looking ahead, I’m particularly intrigued by the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). AI could revolutionize everyday life, serving as an assistant teacher, aiding those with disabilities, and providing invaluable support in various tasks. Despite often being associated with corporate exploitation, technology has immense potential for good, from agricultural advancements to personalized assistance.
While I’m not an expert in this field, I’m actively learning and exploring opportunities. Currently, I’m working for a company where I see the potential for integrating AI into their products. This role allows me to gain valuable skills while keeping an eye on my long-term goal of contributing to meaningful technological advancements.
Overall, I’m optimistic about the future and eager to continue my journey in this direction, balancing my current responsibilities with my aspirations for making a positive impact through technology.
QUESTION — So are there any lessons you’ve learned in this journey that you wish someone had shared with you earlier?
The allure of understanding how things function has led me to share this fascination with numerous individuals, fostering an appreciation for technology, electronics, firmware, and the intricate workings of the world around us. From the mysteries of the human brain to the complexities of ecosystems, there’s an endless array of captivating phenomena to explore.
Curiosity, in itself, is a rewarding pursuit. Whether delving into the intricacies of biology or immersing oneself in the art of music, the journey of discovery enriches our lives. While I understand the appeal of simple pleasures like video games, I advocate for embracing curiosity and actively seeking to expand our understanding of the world.
Being overzealous in my pursuit of inspiration, I believe in seizing each day to its fullest potential, embracing learning and fascination as integral parts of life’s journey.
How to distinguish true green initiatives from mere marketing ploys?
It’s no secret that in today’s market, sustainability is one of the most potent selling points, and brands have been desperate to present themselves as guardians of the environment. It’s a common refrain in marketing that consumers want their purchases to match their values, and advertising is packed with words like “eco-friendly,” “carbon neutral,” and “sustainable,” reaching out to those consumers. But beneath the glossy campaigns and enticing labels, not all things green are as they appear. However, greenwashing, where companies overhype or lie about their eco-credentials, has made it harder than ever to decipher which sustainability claims are genuine and which are a marketing gimmick.
Greenwashing, a phrase first used in the 1980s, refers to misleading behaviours that make a company or product seem greener than it actually is. Rather than implementing meaningful changes, many firms spend big on snazzy marketing and nebulous commitments designed to attract environmentally aware consumers. The scale of the problem is staggering. According to a 2021 research report from The Changing Markets Foundation, 59% of fashion brands’ green claims are misleading or unsupported. In a similar vein, a new report from TerraChoice found that 98% of products in North America making environmental claims had at least one instance of greenwashing
So why does greenwashing persist and sustainability sell in the marketplace? According to a NielsenIQ study from 2022, 72% of consumers worldwide look for sustainable attributes on products. It is in this context that this new consumer shift prioritizes businesses that can entice buyers through their green credentials — even if, for many, they are more skin-deep than significant.
Even as greenwashing comes under greater scrutiny, regulations are uneven. Terms such as “natural,” “eco-friendly,” or “biodegradable” usually have little in the way of standardized definition, allowing companies to take advantage of these ambiguities. While organizations such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States and the European Commission have recently released guidelines to reduce greenwashing, enforcement is sporadic at best.
True sustainability entails major investment in technology, sustainable materials, and restored processes. For many businesses, it allows a cheaper shortcut: the ability to say they care about the environment without having to actually change anything
Consumers can better protect themselves by learning to spot red flags in marketing. Ambiguous declarations like “eco-friendly” without concrete metrics or evidence are common strategies. Some brands invoke meaningless certifications, or they prioritize one attribute, like recycled packaging, to the exclusion of even larger environmental costs, like overexploitation in the food or timber supply chain. Actual sustainability is marked by transparency. And companies dedicated to meaningful change are transparent about their processes, struggles, and evolutions. In contrast, greenwashing businesses usually employ vagueness when discussing their practices.
True sustainability is not just about making claims in marketing but rather involves the incorporation of environmental accountability into every step of a business’s processes. Authenticity is about measurable goals and transparent progress reporting. For example, Unilever’s Sustainable Living Plan saw 32% fewer carbon emissions from energy consumption in 2008 compared to 2021—an example of leadership, accountability, and long-term change. Reputable certifications such as B Corp, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), and LEED indicate a commitment to rigorous sustainability standards. Independent endorsements help consumers separate the action from the lip service.
Real sustainability encompasses a product’s entire lifecycle from sourcing through disposal. Patagonia is one example that uses recycled materials, offers repair services, and promotes second-hand purchases to reduce waste. Real brands own up to their faults and explain how they will change. This kind of honesty inspires trust, separating them from the smooth, frequently overblown stories of greenwashing corporations.
Greenwashing is no victimless crime. Aside from duping consumers, it has dire implications for environmental progress and corporate trust. When consumers discover deceptive practices, it undermines their trust in brands and sustainability initiatives more broadly. Some 40% of consumers are skeptical regarding companies’ green claims, according to a 2021 GlobalWebIndex survey, underscoring the widespread distrust that greenwashing creates. Greenwashing hinders genuine action toward addressing environmental issues by distracting away valuable time and resources from actual solutions. Performative companies slow the pace of much-needed change.
Brands that get caught greenwashing run into backlash from regulators and consumers both. The surrounding controversy was an embarrassing blow, putting its credibility at risk and opening the door to a potential lawsuit. Genevieve Mather: A call to action — Businesses can contribute to the solution and consumers have a role in demanding change.
For corporates, it’s not your quotes now, focus on actions. While it may provide little reward initially, investing in sustainability, providing transparency, and working with the supply chain to address systemic challenges will pay dividends in the long run. Transparent communication on successes and shortcomings will create trust and credibility in an ever-more eco-conscious marketplace.
Consumers also have a great deal of power. Advocating for better practices and backing brands with concrete sustainability records will ultimately force industry-wide reform. Researching, looking for trustworthy certifications, and questioning vague statements are important steps in trying to make sure their decisions align with their values.
Greenwashing really is a betrayal of the fight against climate change; it masks what often is not real advancement while systemic environmental problems continue. As the problem is coming to understand and regulations have tightened, it will become very evident what is lip service and what is substantive action.
Transparency, accountability, and collaboration are the road to sustainability. For businesses, it’s simple: commit to true environmental responsibility and you’ll build trust and brand loyalty. Consumers can safeguard a cleaner future through vigilance and informed choices about what to buy. These efforts revolve towards a world where sustainability is not just a marketing tactic but a common pledge to a good environment.
The global construction industry, which can be argued is one of the most critical sectors for the global economy, is now confronted with the reality of factors to its carbon footprint. With approximately 40% per cent of the world’s energy consumption as well as 33% of the world’s population’s greenhouse gases and, accompanied by several changes in the exhaust of resources, the industry has to shift to sustainable practices. At the core of this change is green building supply chain with sustainable building materials, energy-neutral building designs, and tightly controlled levels of green certification. This not only decreases the environmental footprints but is also economically reasonable in the long run while addressing the customer’s need for green buildings.
The global green building materials market was valued at $238 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $629 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 11.8%. This growth reflects increasing demand for sustainable construction practices.
Some of the traditional construction elements of making buildings including concrete, steel and glass, etc, have their fair share of issues and pollution. Cement industry for instance is responsible for about 8% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions which is more than the total GHG emission of most countries. In this respect, the focus of the green building movement is on sustainable building materials that can be restored, transformed, and used in the area.
Modern consumers are increasingly considering eco-friendly standards, after all, 77% of homebuyers prefer eco-conscious installations as part of their properties. In this regard, green building practices should be widely availed by these developers because they can earn their higher property valuations in this growing market.
New materials are appearing on the market which can be used instead of conventional construction materials. Bamboo is the most popular for its fast growth and high tensile strength and thus recommended for both structural and decorative use.
Rammed earth construction – a method that has been in use since ancient times – is coming into its own because the structure is strong and has a low environmental carrying capacity.
Cross laminated timber (CLT) is a form of mass timber product and has been cited to offer similar structural strength to steel but with much lower carbon emission. A study conducted in 2021 showed that the use of CLT in place of traditional materials could make a building produce as much as 60% green house gas emissions.
Recycled materials help in reducing the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of and also reduce the rate at which we consume raw materials. Recycled steel only needs 25% of the energy that is needed for the production of virgin steel and this reduces the need for mining.
Concrete alternatives such as ferrock, a material produced from recycled steel dust and fly ash concrete try to reduce the amount of industrial wastes that are sent to landfills and emitted as greenhouse gases.
Plastics are being transformed into durable bricks and panels and some of the companies leading in this sector include Gjenge Makers in Kenya which produces construction materials that are five times stronger than concrete from plastic waste.
There are many factors which may be daunting when considering the employment of sustainable materials, for example, the high costs attached and stakeholders who are not inclined to change their ingrained methods. According to industry watchers and experts, the construction industry is still evolving when it comes to deployment of green buildings techniques as most construction professionals lack the skills. They should focus on educational and certification programmes globally in order to make a change by adopting the methods.
The global nature of the construction supply chain complicates the traceability of materials. Blockchain technology is emerging as a solution, providing transparency and ensuring that materials meet sustainability standards.
Despite challenges, the opportunities within the green building supply chain are vast.
Thankfully, with advancement in production technology, new methods are appearing that will reduce costs in due time. Buildings account for a sizable share in fuel consumption globally, the main three being heating, cooling and lighting. The operational energy use can greatly be reduced through energy efficient designs, which can cut down 28% of the emissions generated by the global building sector.
Elements such as Sunlight or thermal mass can be utilised to improve energy optimisation which is the basis of passive design. The benefits of Green buildings are not limited to the construction phase but they keep on accruing across their lifetime.
Large windows along with light shelves are an effective means to facilitate natural lighting and brighten up the interiors, which has proven to reduce energy use by 20% to 60%.
Another useful method to combat high urban temperatures is to introduce green roofs and walls as they can effectively reduce indoor temperatures, the use of such techniques during research carried out in Singapore decreased building temperatures by 4–5’C and the cooling energy cost was cut by 25%.
To save up $19,000 over a span of 30 years, one can employ solar panels on a net-zero energy which at current times only costed a Net-zero energy with panels $19,000 will aid in cutting heating costs significantly which are not competitive to that.
By employing Geothermal systems, hot and cold air can be efficiently obtained from the underground layers of earth, further curtailing energy needs achieving near perfection.
The green building supply chain is a pivotal building block in the quest for an eco-friendly world. The construction industry can reduce its negative influence on the environment while generating economic and social value by concentrating on environmentally sustainable components, designs and green certification. The full realization of this movement will require cross-sectional participation of governments and industry and consumer leaders.
The future of construction is building human’s requisites into also looking after the planet. As it increasingly becomes the standard for us to adopt green building methods, we are nearing a reality where the artificial structures we have built will uplift nature instead of deteriorating it.
Green certifications provide a standardized framework for evaluating and rewarding sustainable practices in construction. These certifications not only validate environmental performance but also offer economic and reputational benefits.
LEED, the most widely recognized green building certification, evaluates projects across metrics like energy efficiency, water use, and material selection.
A LEED-certified building can reduce operational costs by 20% and energy use by 30–50% compared to conventional buildings.
As of 2023, there are over 100,000 LEED-certified projects globally, covering 11 billion square feet.
Originating in the UK, BREEAM emphasizes holistic sustainability, from material sourcing to occupant health. Certified buildings report up to a 40% reduction in carbon emissions.
Focusing on health and well-being, WELL-certified buildings prioritize air quality, lighting, and ergonomics. Studies show that WELL-certified workplaces can enhance employee productivity by 8–11% and reduce absenteeism.
During a time characterized by worldwide upheaval — pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, the ever-intensifying threat of climate change — strong supply chains have become one of businesses’ highest priorities. But resilience alone won’t cut it. To manage these challenges more sustainably, companies also need to consider the environmental and resource crises that are undermining long-term economic prosperity. Enter the circular economy: a game-changing paradigm that reduces waste, reuses resources, builds resilience against supply chain disruption, and tackles environmental degradation.
However, the circular economy is the exact opposite of the linear economy or the ‘take-make-dispose’ model. The former consumes resources, the latter is a regenerative system that seeks to minimise the input of resources, to use them to the fullest, then capture their value ensuring they are re-input into the production process. When applied by firms, this model not only reduces reliance on scarce resources but also works on the flexibility and resilience of the supply chain. In Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s report, it is mentioned that the transition toward a circular economy can enable a new economic opportunity of $4.5 trillion by 2030, an opportunity that should not be ignored.
On the other hand, the traditional linear “take-make-dispose” system is a direct opposite of the circular economy. This regenerative model doesn’t exhaust resources — it helps to keep materials alive in the economy as long as possible and to extract the maximum value from them to recover and reintegrate them into the production cycle. In implementing this model, companies not only mitigate their dependence on depleting resources but also improve supply chain responsiveness and durability. A global transition by 2030 to a circular economy could generate $4.5 trillion in economic benefits — an opportunity too great to ignore, as per Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
Traditional supply chains built for a linear economy have long been inefficient and bad for the planet. Look at the textile industry, for example, which creates 92 million tons of waste every year and causes 10% of the planet’s carbon emissions. Such linear models worsen vulnerabilities, with industries reliant on the capriciousness of resource access, mercurial markets, and ecological wear.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed these infirmities. Industries reliant on just-in-time production and single-use materials became hobbled by supply disruptions. This underscored the need to transition to a more flexible and resource-efficient system—one that the circular economy offers.
At the heart of the circular economy are creative initiatives that emphasize durability, reuse, and efficiency.
Therefore, product design is the building block of circularity. Companies can be making goods that are built to last, that can easily be repaired and recycled, thus reducing waste and reliance on resources. This simple principle is encapsulated in the work of modular smartphone manufacturer Fairphone. Its devices are built to allow end users to replace or upgrade components, rather than throw away the entire product, which promotes sustainability and resilience.
Reverse logistics is a fundamental part of circular supply chains, allowing for the recovery and reuse of materials. Companies like Dell have pioneered closed-loop recycling systems that collect used electronics, break them down and then reintroduce materials like cobalt into new products. Not only does this lessen the burden on mined resources, it creates a self-perpetuating supply loop that cushions against shortages.
Industrial Symbiosis (IS) is the next step of resource efficiency improvement, where industries share their by-product. In Kalundborg, Denmark, companies share an ecosystem in which the waste product from one operation becomes the raw material for another. This model minimizes waste, reduces costs, and ensures the availability of resources across sectors — three pillars of supply chain resilience.
Regional supply chains lessen vulnerability to global shocks. Also, distributed production technologies like 3D printing increase resilience by allowing manufacturers to produce closer to their markets. That reduces transportation emissions, saves money, and provides continuity even through crises.
Circular supply chains rely heavily on emerging technologies. Blockchain helps ensure transparency by tracing materials through their life cycles to prevent fraud and ensure that the materials meet sustainability standards. IoT sensors can be used to monitor how products are used and predict when maintenance is needed, prolonging the life of assets and preventing premature disposal.
At the same time, AI optimizes inventory and resource allocation, minimizing waste throughout your supply chain.
Some companies at the forefront of this change are already demonstrating the power of circular supply chains. Nike’s “Move to Zero” initiative emphasizes recycled material and repurposing production waste, working toward zero carbon and zero waste. Likewise, IKEA’s Circular Hubs enable shoppers to purchase refurbished furniture or to return used pieces for resale, forming a constant cycle of reuse.
Governments are also hitting the gas. The European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan seeks to incorporate sustainability into products and industries while stimulating innovation and material reuse. China, too, is advocating for circular practices in manufacturing and agriculture, understanding that they make economic and environmental sense.
The benefits of the circular economy are not only environmental — it’s a business necessity. Based on that estimate, Accenture says embracing circular principles could shrink global greenhouse gas emissions by 39% and lower consumption of virgin resources by 28%. For businesses, it means lower costs, better risk mitigation, and enhanced brand loyalty from the eco-aware consumer.
But to take circular supply chains further, we’ll need to work together. Businesses need to invest in new technologies and work collaboratively with stakeholders; consumers must do their part by supporting circular practices and products. It will involve new financing models, and governments too need to step up with supportive policies and incentives to speed up the transition.
Such is not the case in a circular economy, and businesses will need to adapt to stay relevant and resilient in the face of volatility. Using a new sourcing, usage, and reuse process to develop supply chains, known as regenerative supply chains, businesses can build systems that include resilience as well as regenerative elements. This pathway is more than a change in operations; it is a sustainable path forward where growth and care for Earth are parallel. By adopting the circular economy, businesses, governments, and consumers can join to shape a resilient world, one that lives well within the limits of the planet — prosperous, sustainable, and capable of meeting the demands of the future.
In present times, when there is heightened awareness of climate change and the importance of environmental sustainability, Carbon Neutral Babies provides an exciting launching point for discussions about ecological responsibility from the earliest days of our lives.
The term speaks to the notion of raising children in a manner that offsets the carbon cost associated with their growth trajectory and lifestyle choices. Raising carbon-neutral babies encourages parenting styles that are less harmful to the environment, given the extent individual consumption habits affect environmental damage. These include the intentional planning we do around logistics, what food we consume, and which products we choose to buy—all of which are crucial elements of building a sustainable future. Individualism is a popular concept in society, with a growing movement towards environmental care that would not be at the cost of other policies. Hence, there arises the need for values-based education, which is based on an incremental understanding that students must be educated into values that prompt the next generation to act towards the planet in the stewardship movement.
Carbon neutrality, also referred to as net-zero carbon emissions, means that an individual, company, or group has found a balance between the carbon dioxide used and the emissions released. We need to raise babies in an enabling environment for healthy growth and development—and that will only be achieved once we reach carbon neutrality, because babies are particularly vulnerable to the ravages of climate change, which can exacerbate some health conditions and delay their development. Efforts towards carbon neutrality, particularly through frugal innovations in healthcare and other sectors, can counter these risks enormously. Long-term strategies need to be based on sustainability and the use of environmentally-friendly resources that can consolidate improved health status not only in the present but also in agreement with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, thus answering the request for a healthier world for future generations. Including carbon neutrality in public health policies can not only protect the health of newborns but also support broader environmental sustainability initiatives.
The things they do will have an environmental cost, and childcare decisions are just the tip of a much larger iceberg that will shape global sustainability and future generations. How has the emergence of parents with a growing awareness of the ecological costs of procreating and raising children grappled with the ethical dilemma of resource consumption needed to nurture human capabilities for future generations of development? Listening to the public goods pitch: desirable future people, of which the world needs more, motivates better environmental stewards. However, this notion is contested in light of alternative opportunities—for example, replacement migration—that may prove more efficient in the production of human capital, thus raising doubts about the moral legitimacy of the taxpayers’ obligations to children after all. In this way, sustainable parenting styles, such as choosing green products and parenting, are essential. Understanding what child-rearing entails and how it relates to environmental sustainability will be vital for designing conscientious, net-zero tomorrows.
As society slowly wakes up to the environmental impact of practically everything we do, from food to furniture to fashion, the carbon footprint that can come with a child, as well as the products and care that need to service them, can no longer be overlooked. Many ubiquitous baby products—from disposable diapers to plastic toys—contribute a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions over their life cycle, from manufacturing through transportation and disposal. Disposable diapers, for example, create millions of tons of waste and waste a great deal of energy. The care products used on babies, such as lotions and wipes, are also often sold in single-use plastic packaging, further increasing their environmental footprint. Introducing sustainable approaches—such as sustainable, eco-friendly, and mindful products—may help reduce a mother’s stress levels while pregnant, since a mother’s stress levels during pregnancy can directly impact her child’s health outcomes. Therefore, making baby care carbon neutral will not just conserve the planet but also work wonders for the well-being of mothers and children.
There are a lot of changes we need to make to give birth to carbon-neutral babies. One excellent idea is to go green with eco-friendly products such as biodegradable diapers and organic baby food that reduce a household’s carbon footprint. Aside from the positive health implications for both mothers and babies, raising awareness among parents about the significance of breastfeeding could help sustainability endeavours, as formula production entails packing and distribution, which in turn increases the carbon footprint. Ultimately, the most crucial component of developing a deep affinity for nature is spending time with it—walking, playing outside, doing yard work in the children’s garden, etc.—instilling environmental stewardship from the ground up. Therefore, exploring and showcasing public policies favouring sustainable childcare, as revealed in the many cases surveyed in Nordic countries, could offer some hints to reinforce the setting off of eco-friendly practices. These approaches give children the power to make sustainable choices while also helping build a healthier planet, ensuring they’re ready to take those ideals with them as they grow up!
Being sustainable in baby-rearing and parenting is a growing concern in this world, but it is also about finding harmony between family needs and environmental impact, encouraging positive outcomes for families. An example of this is in the green products world: biodegradable diapers, organic baby food, etc., which generate less waste and are better for the baby. Outside the womb, practices such as cloth diapering or breastfeeding can sustainably contribute to a family’s carbon footprint with the ultimate goal of creating carbon-neutral living spaces for future generations. Product decisions must be made carefully, as must those involving the mental wellness of caregivers—studies show parents of children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) experience higher levels of stress that could hinder their ability to parent. So while eco-friendly methods are crucial for sustainable parenting, we shouldn’t forget that stress management techniques can foster the flourishing of environmentally conscious habits and promote overall family wellness to raise carbon-neutral kids.
The international community’s transition to carbon neutrality has complex and deep impacts on future generations. Children born into a post-Paris Agreement world where sustainability is the order of the day can expect unpolluted air, rich ecosystems, and a stable temperature regime, which will be a world away from the ongoing environmental pillaging happening at the moment. In their quest for cleaner sources of power, newer ideas for carbon sequestration, or more sustainable farming practices, we are not only minimising harm as a result of climate change but also setting the standard for responsible caretakers of the earth for years to come. To bring about such a transition, we need an education system that develops sustainability as its main focus and empowers young people to freely engage in dialogues and activities around climate. “Carbon neutral babies,” as a result, will inherit not just a world determined to reduce emissions but also one featuring a vigorous conversation advocating for a constant commitment to innovation and responsibility. The legacy of the decisions of the current era will define what kind of ecosystem we will operate in, highlighting the urgency and cooperation required for a joint pathway to carbon neutrality.
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