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In this episode of Sustainability Talks, Lucy Rands, Partner at ETF Partners, sits down with Greg Lawton, Co-Founder and CEO of Nodes & Links, an AI-driven project intelligence platform and an ETF Partners portfolio company. Greg co-founded Nodes & Links in 2018 alongside Dr Christos Ellinas. In the years since, the company has grown into a market leader in decision intelligence for major capital infrastructure projects, having deployed its system across more than 22,000 projects in 23 countries. The platform serves global technology conglomerates, major mining groups, and state-level infrastructure entities. Nodes & Links recently raised a significant funding round backed by ETF Partners, representing a bet that fixing the chronic inefficiencies of the construction industry can materially shift the needle on global carbon emissions. In this conversation, Lucy and Greg dive deep into the reality of deploying AI within high-stakes, risk-averse environments. They discuss the "decision crisis" in capital infrastructure and how Nodes & Links uses engineering-grade, auditable AI, rooted in the laws of physics and mathematics rather than speculative patterns, to eliminate generative AI hallucinations. They also explore the critical debate surrounding human-in-the-loop governance and liability as the industry moves closer towards AI-managed projects. Turning to sustainability, Greg outlines the massive carbon costs of project delays and explains how optimising traditional project management parameters—quality, timeline, and budget—into a square that incorporates environmental impact enables enterprises to actively reduce emissions during execution. Finally, Greg shares his journey as a founder, the changing landscape of AI procurement, and what it means to build a deep-tech enterprise with trust and assurance at its very heart. Whether you are interested in the frontier of enterprise software, the economics of global infrastructure, or how advanced computation can tackle climate change at an industrial scale, Greg's insights on system accountability and project orchestration are essential listening. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Project Intelligence and Capital Infrastructure 01:00 The Reality of the "Decision Crisis" in Modern Construction 04:23 Beyond the Optimism Bias: Why Capital Projects Run Late 07:08 Breaking the Data Bottleneck and Enterprise Systems of Record 09:22 The Evolution of AI Procurement: From Experimentation to Procurement 11:16 Engineering-Grade AI vs. Generative Hallucinations 14:36 The Future of AI Governance, Liability, and Autopilot Projects 18:38 Meeting the Customer Demand for Non-Hallucinating Assurance 21:40 Commercial Moats: Human Sweat, Workflows, and Data Security 23:53 Global Standardisation in Waterfall Project Management 26:02 Quantifying the Carbon Cost of Project Inefficiencies and Delays 28:07 Turning the Project Management Triangle into an Impact Square 29:48 The Energy Debate: Can AI Truly Be Sustainable? 32:15 Founder Journeys, Personal Purpose, and the Road Ahead About the Guest: Greg Lawton Greg Lawton is the Co-Founder and CEO of Nodes & Links, where he has pioneered the use of specialised decision intelligence to bring predictability and speed to the world's most complex engineering projects. With a background in project controls and complex systems, Greg drives the strategic growth of Nodes & Links, bridging advanced cloud algorithms with industrial-scale rollout requirements. Outside of transforming the infrastructure sector, Greg is a dedicated father of two daughters. Follow Greg Lawton on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-lawton-3545497b Find out more about Nodes & Links here: https://nodeslinks.com

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, our Managing Partner, Rob Genieser, sits down with Matthijs Rijlaarsdam, Co-Founder and CEO of QuantWare, the world’s largest independent commercial supplier of quantum processing units (QPUs) by volume and an ETF Partners portfolio company. Matt co-founded QuantWare in 2021 as a spinout from QuTech at TU Delft, alongside CTO Alessandro Bruno. In just a few years, the company has become the world's largest commercial supplier of quantum processing units by volume, having shipped to more than 50 customers across 20 countries, spanning quantum computing companies, national technology institutes and major global technology conglomerates. QuantWare recently closed a €152 million ($178 million) Series B, the largest private round ever raised by a dedicated quantum processor company. We at ETF Partners were proud to join this round, and for us, this was an impact investment as much as a deep-tech one, a bet that scaling quantum hardware can accelerate breakthroughs in clean energy, materials and the natural sciences. In this conversation, Rob and Matt explore the reality of quantum today. They discuss breaking the hardware bottleneck and how QuantWare’s proprietary VIO™ technology solves the scaling architecture trap, shrinking a chip that would otherwise be the size of Central Park into a dense, scalable format. They also examine specialisation versus vertical integration and explain why applying the economic laws of the traditional semiconductor industry to quantum is essential for driving down cost curves. They also evaluate the direct and indirect sustainability impacts, focusing on how quantum computing will drastically reduce the energy required per watt for massive data processing whilst simultaneously unlocking breakthroughs in clean fuels, batteries and the natural sciences. Finally, Matt shares lessons in deep-tech entrepreneurship, reflecting on the importance of aggressive ambition from day one and transitioning the industry towards commercial scale and industrial production. Whether you are fascinated by the future of high-performance computing, deep-tech investment, or how next-generation technology will help us solve global environmental challenges, Matt's insights on open architecture and supply chain economics are essential listening. Listen now to discover how QuantWare is helping accelerate the timeline to a more sustainable future. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Quantum Computing and Sustainability 03:09 Current State of Quantum Computing 06:22 The Breakthrough of Independent Quantum Processors 11:01 Challenges in Building Quantum Processing Units 13:56 The VIO Technology and Its Impact 17:06 Business Models and Industry Scaling 19:10 Learning from Customers and Building Relationships 22:00 Quantum Computing's Role in Environmental Challenges 25:32 Cost Efficiency and Future of Quantum Computing 29:08 Global Ambitions and Market Positioning 33:04 Lessons Learned and Future Outlook About The Guest: Matthijs Rijlaarsdam Matthijs co-founded QuantWare and has since grown it into the world's leading quantum processor maker. He has a background in computer science and quantum information, with research experience in quantum simulation at QuTech. As CEO, Matthijs drives QuantWare's strategic direction and growth, bridging deep-tech innovation with real-world industrial scalability. He is also a member of the TechChampions. In his free time, he loves hiking in the mountains. Follow Matthijs Rijlaarsdam here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthijs-rijlaarsdam Find out more about QuantWare here: https://quantware.com Find out more about ETF Partners here: https://etfpartners.capital

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, our Managing Partner Rob Genieser sits down with Hitoshi Yoshida, ETF Partners’ newly appointed Venture Partner and a titan of the Japanese technology sector. Hitoshi brings a unique perspective to the sustainability landscape. With a career spanning 25 years in senior leadership roles, including serving as the President and CEO of Microsoft Japan and Managing Director of Hewlett Packard Japan, he views sustainability not through a traditional ‘green’ lens, but as a critical mission powered by digital transformation. In this conversation, Rob and Hitoshi explore: The Urgency of Transformation: Why Japan is in need of a ‘deep transformation’ to avoid becoming a ‘Galapagos’ of the tech world. Technology as a Force for Good: How data integrity, AI, and cybersecurity are the essential foundations for corporate sustainability. Navigating the Japanese Market: Crucial advice for European start-ups looking to sell into complex Japanese corporate and government environments. Mission-Driven Leadership: Hitoshi’s personal journey from being a ‘nuts’ entrepreneur in the 90s to leading global giants, and why aligning a career with values is the ultimate motivator. Whether you are a founder looking to scale into Asia or a corporate leader navigating the shift to net zero, Hitoshi’s insights on prioritisation and relationship-building are essential listening. Listen now to discover how experienced operators are bridging the gap between pioneering technology and mainstream adoption. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Sustainability Talks 02:25 Hitoshi's Journey in Technology Leadership 03:43 The Importance of Sustainable Transformation 05:24 Supporting Entrepreneurs in Sustainability 06:54 Japan's Readiness for Innovation 08:03 The Role of Technology in Japan's Future 10:16 Building Ecosystems for Startups 12:06 Execution Gaps in Japanese Organisations 14:30 Collaboration Between Startups and Corporations 17:07 Advice for Startups on Market Strategy 21:05 Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs 23:22 Defining Success as an Entrepreneur 26:05 Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship 29:01 Advice for Today's Entrepreneurs 31:50 Final Thoughts on Making an Impact in Japan About The Guest: Hitoshi Yoshida  Hitoshi Yoshida, is ETF partner’s newest venture partner and a seasoned technology leader, with 25 years in top management roles at global IT companies, including serving as the president and CEO of Microsoft Japan and the managing director of Hewlett Packard Japan. In those roles, Hitoshi has led large-scale digital transformation for public and private sector customers, helping them leverage cloud, data, AI, and cybersecurity to drive growth and resilience. Hitoshi was also an entrepreneur early on in his career, having helped create Cambridge Technology Partners, where he rose to be its president of Japan. Now CEO of ixi Corporation, Hitoshi brings a rare combination of deep enterprise technology experience, ecosystem building, and strategic advisory work to the sustainability and impact investment landscape. Rather than coming from a traditional green background, he approaches sustainability through how technology can be a force for good. Follow Hitoshi Yoshida HERE Follow Rob Genieser HERE Find out more about ETF Partners HERE

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, host and Managing Partner of ETF Partners Patrick Sheehan welcomes back a very special guest, Lord John Browne, Co-Founder and Chairman of BeyondNetZero, Senior adviser to General Atlantic and former CEO of BP. When we launched the Sustainability Talks podcast in 2021, Lord Browne was our very first guest. At that time the world looked very different, with President Trump’s term ending, the US pulling out of Iraq and before Russia invaded Ukraine. Now, Patrick and Lord Browne reunite to dissect the seismic shifts in geopolitics, climate and energy—offering a candid masterclass on how to lead, innovate, and find opportunity in a profoundly unpredictable environment. Tune in for a powerful, pragmatic and ultimately optimistic discussion on how to navigate the complex trade-offs facing business and politics today and secure a sustainable future. Chapters:  00:00 The Evolution of Energy Perspectives 08:59 Navigating Uncertainty in Energy Markets 15:57 The Role of Technology in Energy Transition 21:52 Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Energy 28:48 Cultivating Courage and Leadership in Business About The Guest: Lord John Browne  Lord Browne is the co-Founder and Chairman of BeyondNetZero, General Atlantic’s climate growth equity fund. The fund’s strategy is to invest in companies that contribute to the energy transition by reducing end-to-end costs; improving operational efficiency; reducing strategic risks and improving resilience; and enabling the development of new energy sources. He currently serves as Chairman of Avathon, an artificial intelligence technology company, and Chairman of Carbonplace, a global carbon credit transaction network. He also serves on the board of Venterra, an offshore wind energy services company which is part of BeyondNetZero’s investment portfolio. After retiring from BP in 2007, Lord Browne joined Riverstone, where he was co-head of a $3.4 billion renewable energy private equity fund, the world’s largest at the time. He was subsequently Executive Chairman of L1 Energy. He has previously served on the boards of Goldman Sachs, Intel, SmithKline Beecham, and DaimlerChrysler. From 2010 to 2015 he served as the UK Government first lead Non-Executive Director, working with Secretaries of State to appoint Non-Executive Directors to the board of each government department. In 2010, the report of an independent inquiry headed by Lord Browne was published under the title Securing a Sustainable Future for Higher Education, making recommendations for a more sustainable system of higher education funding. Find out more about Lord John Browne HERE Find out more about BeyondNetZero HERE Follow Lord John Browne HERE Follow Patrick Sheehan HERE Find out more about ETF Partners at: etfpartners.capital

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, Rob Genieser, Managing Partner at ETF Partners, sits down with Sir Danny Alexander, CEO of Infrastructure Finance and Sustainability at HSBC. They explore the massive trends currently reshaping global infrastructure—from the energy security needs of developed markets to the rapid electrification of emerging economies. The conversation dives into the bank’s role in supporting “first-of-a-kind” projects, the critical need for blended finance in Southeast Asia, and why 95% of HSBC’s clients now view sustainability as a fundamental growth opportunity. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Infrastructure “Golden Age”: How energy security, digital transformation, and climate resilience are driving unprecedented demand for new assets. AI as an Energy Transition Catalyst: Why the massive power demand of data centres is actually accelerating the deployment of firm, clean power and grid innovation. Bridging the Bankability Gap: The specific criteria required to move sustainability from venture-backed innovation to large-scale project finance. Blended Finance & Partnerships: A look at Pentagreen Capital and how public and private capital work together to de-risk sustainable projects in Asia. Case Study—Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): How HSBC supported the Infinium Roadrunner project in Texas to scale e-SAF production. The Necessity of Adaptation: Why we need to move beyond mitigation to develop financing models for resilience and nature-based solutions. About the Guest: Sir Danny Alexander is CEO of HSBC Infrastructure Finance and Sustainability, CIB. In this role, Danny leads on infrastructure finance and project finance advisory opportunities associated with the transition to net zero in our strategic markets. Danny also leads on sustainable finance and clean tech initiatives and oversees partnerships such as Pentagreen Capital, our joint venture with Temasek that targets marginally bankable clean energy and adaptation projects in Southeast Asia. Previously Sir Danny was Vice President, Policy and Strategy, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). He joined the AIIB – the first new multilateral development bank of the 21st century and the first to be headquartered in Beijing - at its inception in 2016 and led the Bank through its start-up and growth phases. Sir Danny was responsible for AIIB’s strategic direction, including its thematic sectoral and country priorities. He led the Bank’s ambitious climate agenda and oversaw AIIB’s environmental and social and other operational policies. He represented AIIB at the G20 Finance Ministers meetings, climate COPs, and other international meetings. He led the Bank’s partnership with the World Bank and other multilateral, bilateral, and private sector partners. From 2010-2015, Sir Danny was Chief Secretary to the Treasury in the United Kingdom Cabinet. He led the Liberal Democrat negotiating team that established the Coalition that governed in that period and was one of the four member ‘Quad’ that provided the core political leadership of that government. In government, he was responsible for the UK’s deficit reduction, pension reform, and national infrastructure plan. He was a member of the National Security Council. He was MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey from 2005 to 2015. He was Knighted by Her Majesty the Queen in 2015 for his services to government. He holds a BA in philosophy, politics and economics from the University of Oxford and is an honorary fellow of St Anne’s College, Oxford. He was born and brought up in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Follow Sir Danny Alexander on LinkedIn HERE Follow Rob Genieser on LinkedIn HERE  Find out more about ETF Partners at etfpartners.capital

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, ETF Partners Managing Partner Rob Genieser sits down with two of the leading voices in responsible and ethical AI: Ray Eitel-Porter and Dr. Paul Dongha, co-authors of the new book Governing the Machine. Together, they explore one of the most urgent and overlooked questions in today’s technology landscape: What is the true environmental cost of AI, and how can responsible AI governance accelerate sustainable innovation? As AI adoption accelerates—and generative AI becomes embedded in everything from banking to everyday knowledge work—the conversation turns to the growing climate impact of data centers. Ray and Paul break down the hard truths behind AI’s footprint, from rising greenhouse gas emissions and soaring energy use to the escalating water demands required to cool data centers worldwide. They warn of a collision course between AI’s rapid expansion and global sustainability targets, urging companies to integrate environmental considerations directly into their AI governance and risk frameworks. But this episode isn’t just a wake-up call. It’s a roadmap. Ray and Paul share practical guidance for building trust in AI systems, insights into global regulatory approaches, and a look at how AI can also advance sustainability—from smarter energy grids to more efficient industrial systems. Whether you’re an AI builder, a sustainability leader, or simply trying to understand the future of responsible technology, this conversation is essential listening. In this episode you’ll hear: Why responsible and ethical AI must now include environmental sustainability The rising CO₂ emissions, energy consumption, and water depletion linked to AI How data center demand is driving new coal-powered generation in some regions The role of corporations and regulators in shaping ethical AI The promise of “sustainable AI” and how organisations can measure their AI footprint The future of AI governance and the rise of agentic AI systems Key takeaway: AI’s transformative potential can only be realised responsibly if its environmental impact is managed—ethics and sustainability must evolve together. Chapters:  00:00 The Environmental Impact of AI 02:44 Introduction to Responsible AI Governance 06:25 The Evolution of Responsible AI 09:39 Building Trust in AI Systems 12:14 Transparency in AI Governance 14:32 Global Perspectives on AI Regulation 20:20 The Lag of Legislation Behind Technology 22:49 The Role of Corporations in AI Ethics 24:03 Trust in International AI Companies 27:46 The Future of AI and Consumer Trust 30:17 Sustainable AI: A New Paradigm 34:42 AI's Role in Energy Efficiency 37:03 The Future Landscape of AI Governance Read ‘Governing The Machine’ here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/governing-the-machine-9781399426299   Follow Ray Eitel-Porter here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayeitelporter    Follow Dr. Paul Dongha here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-dongha/   Find out more about ETF Partners at: https://etfpartners.capital/

In this episode our partner Tomer Strikovsky sits down with Thorsten Heller, a pioneer in digital infrastructure for the energy transition. As the founder of Greenbird, an ETF Partners–backed company that became a global leader in data integration for utilities before being acquired by GE Vernova, Thorsten shares his journey from startup founder to corporate innovator — and what it takes to power the grids of the future. They discuss how data integration, AI, and real-time analytics are transforming the way utilities operate — shifting from a one-way to a bidirectional energy flow. Thorsten explains why the invisible layer of data is critical to enabling renewable energy, flexibility, and resilience in the modern grid, and why utilities can no longer operate without AI. In this episode you’ll learn about:  Why the energy transition is no longer theoretical — it’s here and accelerating fast.Why Data infrastructure is as vital as physical infrastructure in building a resilient, sustainable grid.Why utilities need to evolve from management to orchestration, powered by AI.How startups can make a global impact — but sometimes joining a bigger platform scales that impact faster.How the next wave of innovation will come from AI-enabled, decentralised grid intelligence. Chapters 00:00 The Shift to Bidirectional Energy Flow 02:45 The Birth of Greenbird and Its Mission 05:15 Understanding the Data Challenge in Utilities 08:46 The Spaghetti Architecture of Data Integration 11:07 Data's Role in Sustainability and Energy Transition 13:10 AI's Impact on Utilities and Data Foundations 15:31 The Evolution of Energy Data 17:46 Greenbird's Journey to Acquisition 22:40 Integration into GE Vernova and GridOS 26:57 The Current State of the Energy Transition 30:38 AI as a Necessity for Future Grid Management 36:23 Advice for Future Energy Tech Founders About Thorsten Heller Thorsten Heller is Chief Innovation Officer at GE Vernova, where he leads efforts to build the next-generation software portfolio GridOS. He was the founder and CEO of Greenbird, a Norwegian startup that became a global leader in data integration for utilities (Utilihive) and was acquired by GE Vernova in 2023. Thorsten has worked with over 200 utilities worldwide and is a recognised thought leader on digital transformation in the energy sector. Follow Thorsten Heller here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thorstenheller/  Follow Tomer Strikovsky here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomerstrik/ Find out more about GE Vernova here: https://www.gevernova.com/ Find out more about ETF Partners here: etfpartners.capital

Explore the extraordinary potential of quantum computing! In the latest episode of Sustainability Talks, ETF Partners’ Managing Partner Patrick Sheehan sits down with Steve Brierley, CEO & Founder of Riverlane, the world leader in Quantum Error Correction, to explore the extraordinary potential of quantum computing. For decades, quantum computing has felt like science fiction — powerful in theory but always just out of reach. That is beginning to change. As Steve explains, we are entering a new era where quantum computers will soon be able to solve problems that even the world’s most advanced supercomputers cannot. The conversation dives into: Why quantum computing is a radically new capability that can solve problems classical computers cannot How it could revolutionise drug discovery, materials design, and sustainable fertiliser production The role of error correction in making quantum computers commercially viable The huge market potential and environmental impact of this next frontier in technology How geopolitics and innovation are shaping the future of computing and AI As Steve notes, the next few years will be pivotal: the technology is advancing rapidly, investment is scaling, and the race to build a quantum future is intensifying across the globe. This episode paints an inspiring picture of how harnessing the laws of nature at the atomic level could unlock innovations critical to building a more sustainable world. Chapters 00:00 The Foundations of Quantum Mechanics 02:23 Introduction to Quantum Computing 04:10 Understanding Quantum Computing 06:32 The Progress and Future of Quantum Computing 09:39 The Era of Mega-Qubits 11:14 Applications of Quantum Computing 13:49 The Market Potential of Quantum Computing 16:33 Challenges in Quantum Computing 19:42 The Role of Quantum Error Correction 24:59 Current Status and Future Trends in Quantum Computing 30:27 Geopolitical Implications of Quantum Technology 34:51 The Future of Quantum Computing and AI About Steve Brierley Dr. Steve Brierley is founder and CEO of Riverlane, a quantum computing company with a difference. Riverlane is the global leader in what is called quantum error correction. Steve founded Riverlane in 2016 to build the error correction stack for quantum computers. Driven by his conviction that fault-tolerant quantum computers will accelerate human progress, Riverlane partners with leading quantum hardware companies to make that happen sooner. Steve has worked in quantum for over 20 years and is an expert advisor to the UK government. He holds a PhD in quantum information, spent a decade in the intelligence community and worked as a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge leading major research projects in quantum computing. In January 2024, Steve was awarded an OBE for his services to quantum computing. Find out more about Riverlane here: https://www.riverlane.com Follow Steve Brierley HERE Find out more about ETF Partners here: https://etfpartners.capital/

In this episode of our Sustainability Talks podcast, our Managing Partner Patrick Sheehan sits down with Christoph Gebald, CEO & Founder of Climeworks, the global leader in carbon dioxide removal. Together, they explore how direct air capture (DAC) is evolving from academic research to a commercially viable climate solution — and why it's becoming indispensable in the race to net zero. With over 15 years of experience building DAC technologies, Christoph shares how Climeworks is scaling the science of carbon removal into a business poised to operate at gigaton scale by 2050. Recognised by TIME as one of the most innovative leaders in climate action, he brings unique insight into the intersection of engineering precision, commercial ambition, and climate urgency. In this episode, we cover: What direct air capture is — and why it matters now more than ever The evolution of DAC from lab-scale prototypes to large-scale plants Key breakthroughs and cost-reduction strategies shaping the field The role of corporate partnerships in driving early adoption Financing climate infrastructure and aligning with impact investors How Europe’s regulatory leadership is shaping global carbon markets What it takes to turn climate science into scalable business models "We’re no longer just inventing technology — we're building the foundations of a trillion-dollar industry. Why it matters: Direct air capture is one of the few climate technologies that can physically remove CO₂ from the atmosphere. But making it economically viable requires innovation not just in engineering — but in business models, market design, and policy alignment. This episode dives into all three, offering valuable perspectives for investors, corporates, policymakers, and climate tech founders alike. Listen to this episode in full below or on your favourite podcast platform HERE  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Direct Air Capture and Its Importance 03:02 The Need for Mechanical Solutions in Carbon Removal 05:59 Scaling Technology and Cost Reduction in Direct Air Capture 08:59 Energy Consumption and Sustainability in Carbon Capture 11:55 Market Dynamics and Business Models for Carbon Removal 14:59 Cost Reduction Pathways and Future Projections 17:56 Building a Business in the Carbon Removal Space 25:23 The Trillion Dollar Climate Industry 26:22 Understanding Customer Needs in Carbon Credits 27:50 From Technology to Full Solutions 28:37 The Role of Corporate Partnerships 31:29 Navigating Market Volatility 35:31 Europe's Market Dynamics and Regulation 39:34 Optimism for the Future of Carbon Capture About Christoph Gebald  Dr. Christoph Gebald is CEO & Founder of Climeworks, the global leader in carbon removal. With over 15 years of experience in direct air capture technology, Christoph is considered a pioneer in this growing and crucial industry. Under his leadership, Climeworks has developed groundbreaking direct air capture plants that physically remove CO2 from the atmosphere, working toward the ambitious goal of removing carbon dioxide on a gigaton scale by 2050. Recognised by TIME as one of the 100 most innovative leaders driving business climate action, Christoph brings a mechanical engineer's precision and a visionary's outlook to the challenge of climate change. Christoph is a mechanical engineer (ETH Zürich and UC Berkeley) and holds an MSc with distinction and a PhD from ETH Zürich. Find out more about Climeworks HERE  Follow Christoph Gebald HERE

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, our Senior Partner Remy de Tonnac is joined by Patrick Odier — Chairman of Building Bridges, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Lombard Odier Group and President of Swiss Sustainable Finance (SSF) — for a powerful discussion on the urgent need to embed sustainability at the heart of global finance. Patrick brings decades of leadership in the financial world and has emerged as a champion of sustainable investment. In this wide-ranging conversation, he reflects on his personal journey—from a traditional finance background to spearheading pioneering initiatives like Building Bridges, which connects public and private capital around sustainable development. Together, Remy and Patrick explore: Why global finance must become sustainable finance—or risk obsolescence How qualitative analysis has reshaped investment strategies over the past 30 years The role of metrics like “temperature contribution” in assessing corporate climate risk The importance of carbon pricing and accounting for environmental externalities The challenges—and opportunities—posed by political headwinds and regulatory fatigue How technology and innovation are essential to accelerating the sustainability transition Why optimism is a crucial tool in driving long-term systemic change This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of finance, sustainability, and innovation, and how collaborative leadership can unlock transformational change at scale. Chapters 00:00 The Current State of Sustainability Discussions 09:47 Patrick Odier's Journey into Sustainable Finance 20:03 Metrics for Sustainable Investment 30:00 The Role of Public and Private Capital 32:46 Technology and Optimism in Sustainability About Patrick Odier Patrick Odier is Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Lombard Odier Group. He acted as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bank Lombard Odier & Co Ltd. from 2014 -2022. Previously, he was Senior Managing Partner of the Lombard Odier Group from 2008 until 2022. He joined the Lombard Odier Group in 1982 and completed his training in Zurich, New York, and Montreal before becoming a Managing Partner in 1986. He holds an economics degree from the University of Geneva and an MBA in finance from the University of Chicago. Patrick Odier is president of Swiss Sustainable Finance (SSF). He is also Chairman of Building Bridges. He was Chairman of the Swiss Bankers Association from 2009 to 2016 and was a member of the Board of economiesuisse (Swiss Business Federation) from 2004 to 2022. He also serves on the boards of several academic and philanthropic organisations. Find out more about Lombard Odier Group HERE  Find out more about Swiss Sustainable Finance HERE   Find out more about Building Bridges HERE

In the latest episode of Sustainability Talks, ETF Partners’ Managing Partner Patrick Sheehan is joined by Rafel Jorda Siquier, founder and CEO of Open Cosmos, a company at the cutting edge of space innovation. This conversation takes us on a journey through the stars—exploring how satellites are fast becoming essential tools in the fight against climate change. Founded in 2015, Open Cosmos has quickly become one of the few companies capable of delivering end-to-end satellite missions—from design and build, to launch and operations. From monitoring deforestation and wildfires to enabling space-based AI and telecommunications experiments, Open Cosmos is making space technology more accessible and impactful than ever before. Rafel’s mission is bold: democratise access to space and make satellite data useful and available to organisations of all sizes. In this episode, he shares how Open Cosmos launched its first satellite within just eight months, has maintained a 100% mission success rate, and is now delivering multi-million euro satellite constellations and national geospatial platforms. He also reflects on the importance of collaboration across Europe to grow the space sector and deliver on global sustainability goals. Whether it’s responding to humanitarian disasters, monitoring essential climate variables, or building a 6G telecoms lab in orbit, this episode highlights how space can—and must—play a central role in addressing today’s most urgent planetary challenges. Listen now to learn about: The rapid rise of Open Cosmos and its unique position in the global space market How AI-powered satellites like Phisat-2 are enabling real-time climate data The Menut satellite and its role in monitoring deforestation and wildfires Why governments like Peru are turning to Open Cosmos for sustainable development How Europe can lead the future of space through ambition and cooperation Chapters: 00:00 The Multipolar World and Europe's Strengths 02:31 Open Cosmos: Revolutionizing Access to Space 08:03 Innovations in Satellite Technology and Applications 15:34 Real-World Impact of Satellite Data 20:42 The Future of the Space Industry 26:59 Europe's Role in Global Space Collaboration 30:20 The Vision for Open Cosmos and Global Problem Solving About Rafel Jorda  As CEO and founder, Rafel leads the Open Cosmos team. From leading the team to delivering the first satellite mission within eight months, to managing the expanding team and range of customers today, Rafel has overseen the overall company strategy and directed its execution, all whilst working towards the original mission of democratising access to space. After studying aerospace engineering at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia in Barcelona and completing an MBA, Rafel worked at large corporations, such as Airbus Defence and Space, as well as small innovative space start-ups, such as zero2infinity. Find out more about Open Cosmos here: https://www.open-cosmos.com

Metals are the invisible backbone of our sustainable future, powering electric vehicles, AI infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and global data centres. But with rising demand and tightening supply chains, how prepared are we to meet the needs of the energy transition? In this episode, our partner Tomer Strikovsky speaks with Alon Olsha, Senior Metals and Mining Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, to unpack the complex world of metals and mining. Alon brings deep insight into how critical minerals like copper, cobalt, lithium, and rare earth elements shape everything from climate strategy to geopolitics. Together, they explore: Why copper demand could rise by 70% over the next 25 years The challenges in scaling mining operations to match demand How China came to dominate the global refining landscape The paradox of needing more mining to achieve less carbon The slow but growing role of innovation and AI in mining Editor's Note: This episode was recorded on the 23rd July, 2025, prior to the unexpected 30 July announcement that the US would exclude raw copper from its tariff measures. Chapters: 00:00 The Role of Metals in Global Trade and Sustainability 03:12 Understanding Different Categories of Metals 05:46 The Demand for Metals in the Energy Transition 08:54 Geopolitics and Metal Supply Chains 12:01 Challenges in Mining and Production 15:13 The Environmental Impact of Mining 17:48 The Influence of Major Mining Companies 21:06 Technological Innovations in Mining 24:07 Future Outlook for Metal Supply and Demand About Alon Olsha:  Alon Olsha is a Senior Analyst covering Metals and Mining at Bloomberg Intelligence, based in London. With over two decades of experience spanning equity research, fund management, corporate finance, and government advisory, Alon brings deep expertise in global mining markets and decarbonisation strategies.  Before joining Bloomberg in 2022, Alon held senior roles within the UK government, including Head of the Carbon Capture and Storage Infrastructure Fund at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), where he led initiatives supporting the UK’s low-carbon transition. Earlier, he served as a corporate finance advisor to BEIS, focusing on special situations in the steel sector and electric vehicle infrastructure.  Previously, Alon was a Senior Equity Analyst at Macquarie, leading coverage of major global mining companies. He began his career in South Africa as a fund manager and analyst at STANLIB and as Associate Director in the M&A advisory team at i capital.  Alon holds extensive sectoral knowledge across mining, energy transition, and industrial decarbonisation, offering insight into the evolving dynamics of resource and capital markets. Find out more about Alon Olsha HERE

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, ETF Partners’ Tomer Strikovsky sits down with Coen van Oostrom, founder and CEO of Edge Technologies, a global leader in sustainable real estate. They explore Coen’s early journey into climate-focused development, the challenges of transforming an emissions-heavy industry, and how Edge became synonymous with high-performance, net-zero buildings. Coen shares sharp insights on how AI is revolutionising construction and building management, why policy engagement matters more than ever, and how sustainability and profitability are not only compatible — they’re mutually reinforcing. It’s a deep dive into the innovation, regulation, and mindset shifts needed to decarbonise the built environment. Key Takeaways: Coen Van Oostrom is a true pioneer in sustainable real estate. Net-zero buildings produce as much energy as they consume — but achieving that requires more than just solar panels. The real estate sector is one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions. AI and smart data are transforming how we design, operate, and manage buildings. Lifecycle thinking and embodied carbon are becoming central to next-gen construction. Policy engagement is essential to scaling green innovation. The current environmental and economic crises present a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead the transformation of real estate. Understanding total lifecycle costs is key to unlocking both ROI and sustainability impact. Chapters: 00:00 — The Genesis of Sustainable Real Estate 02:54 — Navigating Challenges in Real Estate Development 05:56 — The Shift to Sustainable Practices 09:13 — Understanding Net Zero Buildings 12:10 — The Role of Technology in Sustainability 15:08 — Defining Sustainable vs. Net Zero Buildings 18:04 — Addressing Emissions in Existing Buildings 25:19 — Navigating Social Aspects of Technological Interventions 28:04 — Innovations in Construction and Real Estate 30:31 — Next Sense: Revolutionising Building Management 33:41 — AI’s Role in Building Maintenance 36:52 — The Future of Decarbonisation in Real Estate 39:23 — Leadership and Vision for Europe’s Future About Coen  Coen van Oostrom is a true pioneer in sustainable real estate and the founder and CEO of EDGE Technologies. Edge is considered the global leader in sustainable buildings — known for developing the world’s smartest building, equipped with 28,000 sensors and personalised workspace controls. They’re also behind some of the greenest buildings ever certified.  Coen started Edge in Amsterdam nearly 30 years ago, and what began as a bold local vision has grown into a global platform. To date, Edge has developed almost 2 million square meters of sustainable real estate across Europe, the UK, and North America, with over €5 billion in projects. In 2022, Macquarie took a significant minority stake, helping to accelerate growth even further.  Through Edge, Coen has proven that environmental performance and commercial success don’t just coexist — they actually reinforce each other.

In this episode of Sustainability Talks, ETF Partners' Zoë VanderWolk sits down with Pavan Sukhdev, CEO and founder of GIST Impact, to unpack one of the most pressing topics in sustainable finance today: the evolution—and the future—of ESG ratings. Pavan is a globally respected voice in sustainability and environmental economics, known for leading the UN’s “Green Economy Initiative” and the landmark TEEB study (The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity). As the founder of GIST Impact, he works at the cutting edge of impact measurement, helping companies and investors understand their holistic value—and the externalities that traditional ESG frameworks often overlook. Key Themes from the Episode: Why ESG ratings alone are not enough—and how they’ve become “a pig’s breakfast” of inconsistent metrics The need for clearer frameworks to evaluate direct and indirect corporate impacts How to bridge the gap between NGO perspectives and business realities The role of technology in both creating and solving sustainability challenges Why today’s externalities are tomorrow’s risks—and how investors can use this insight to drive positive change "Be approximately right rather than precisely wrong." — Pavan Sukhdev The conversation follows Pavan’s journey from scientist to banker to sustainability advocate—a path shaped by personal revelations (including fatherhood) and a growing recognition of nature’s invisible economics. His recent TED Talk, “The Birth, Life, Death and Afterlife of ESG Ratings,” sets the stage for a candid, thought-provoking discussion on how we must evolve beyond box-ticking toward true impact investing. Memorable Quotes: "Why would I not want to know these things?" "If you want to be sustainable, be positive impact." "Today's externalities are tomorrow's risks." About Pavan Sukhdev Pavan Sukhdev is the CEO and founder of GIST Impact, a company established in 2008 with the vision of creating a sustainable tomorrow – a world where humans live in harmony with nature and enjoy the benefits of a green and equitable economy of permanence. As the CEO of GIST Impact, Pavan collaborates with corporations and investors, leveraging impact economics and technology to measure a business' holistic value contribution to the world. Pavan's remarkable journey has taken him from scientist to international banker to environmental economist, bringing him to the forefront of the sustainability movement. His extensive work in sustainability and the invisible economics of nature led to his appointment as head of the United Nations' "Green Economy Initiative" and leader of the G8+5 study, "The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity" (TEEB). In his recent TED Talk, "The Birth, Life, Death and Afterlife of ESG Ratings," Pavan walks us through the evolution, challenges, and shortcomings of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) ratings. He envisions an 'afterlife' for ESG ratings, where externalities – a company's indirect impacts or side effects on the environment and society – are accounted for, where we as a society are able to grasp the full picture of corporate impacts, and to use this information to better our decision making and ultimately, sustain our future.

ETF Partners is excited to share the latest episode of Sustainability Talks, where our partner Remy de Tonnac is joined by Mathias Boissonot, CEO and co-founder of Handprint — a company pioneering how businesses generate positive planetary impact. From his early days as a hacker to leading over 200 tech R&D projects across Europe and Asia, Mathias brings a rare blend of tech-savvy and environmental vision. In this wide-ranging conversation, he outlines how Handprint is helping companies transition from extractive to regenerative business models by embedding measurable, nature-positive actions directly into their operations. “A regenerative economy is an economy that benefits nature.” — Mathias Boissonot, Sustainability Talks, Episode 26 Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why carbon offsetting isn't enough Mathias challenges the current reliance on carbon offsetting, arguing it often allows businesses to outsource their responsibility. Instead, he champions a proactive model that invests in future ecosystem services — what he calls nature equity. How Handprint uses advanced tech to quantify impact With tools like satellite imagery, algorithmic verification, and an evolving impact science framework, Handprint enables companies to support vetted, regenerative projects — and measure the value of ecosystem services in real-time. Sustainability as a revenue driver Mathias argues that sustainability is not a cost centre, but a strategic growth driver — one that builds brand equity, customer engagement, and long-term value. Advice for founders and leaders For those looking to align with regenerative models, Mathias offers practical advice: start with transparency, measure impact holistically, and think beyond compliance toward creating demand for sustainability. Tune in now to hear how businesses can go from doing less harm to doing more good — and what the future of regenerative capitalism might look like. About Mathias Boissonot Mathias Boissonot is the visionary Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder of Handprint, the leading Regeneration as a Service platform. Handprint enables corporations to select from a range of curated and verified impact projects aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Handprint cuts up to 80% of the intermediary costs traditionally associated with impact projects thanks to the use of technologies like satellite imagery and machine learning for verification, offering the highest dollar-to-impact ratio in the market. With nearly a decade of experience working on R&D in over 200 tech startups across Europe and Asia, Mathias brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the world of sustainable technology. As the founder of Green, an urban gardening IoT company, and a respected contributor and mentor in the startup ecosystem, Mathias is a true innovator in the field. Today, Handprint is on a mission to empower the economy's transition from extractive to regenerative practices. By enabling companies to integrate planet-positive actions into their business activities profitably and seamlessly, handprint is redefining impact for the 21st century. With advanced technology, including verification systems and satellite imagery, handprint is leading the charge in impact science, automation, quantification, and verification.