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Change Cycle Podcast: Navigating Systemic Change in the Circular Economy

Christine Yeager, a former sustainability leader at Coca-Cola, has now launched a thought-provoking podcast named Change Cycle. The show addresses the multifaceted hurdles in transitioning toward a circular economy, exploring how individuals, businesses, and governments can adapt their practices to foster sustainability.

Having accumulated over a decade of experience in the consumer goods industry, Yeager played a pivotal role in integrating sustainable principles into Coca-Cola's operations. This included strategic planning focused on reducing carbon footprints, ensuring water conservation, and promoting circularity in operations. She has since shifted her focus from corporate messaging to action-driven initiatives aimed at societal impact.

In her own words, Yeager stated, "I left Coca-Cola to align my personal mission with my professional objectives." Her intention with Change Cycle is to confront the challenges and discomfort associated with driving change for a more equitable economy that respects both people and the planet.

The timing of this podcast's launch is critical, given the heightened pressure on organizations and consumers to comply with evolving legislation, manage rising waste disposal costs, and respond to increasing demand for recycled materials across various sectors, particularly in packaging and textiles.

In line with her mission, Yeager co-founded the Circular Action Alliance, the first U.S. Producer Responsibility Organization established to support the adoption of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws. In her 18-month tenure, she laid the groundwork for effective engagement with producers, ensuring compliance readiness—an undertaking that introduced her to her inaugural podcast guest, John Hite.

The third episode of Change Cycle marks the beginning of guest interviews, featuring an engaging dialogue with Hite that probes into the balance between personal accountability and the necessity for systemic change. This conversation aims to set a precedent for future episodes, reinforcing that the show extends beyond practical recycling tips.

Yeager clarifies, “This isn’t merely about improving recycling methods; it’s about evolving our systems and acknowledging the roles we each play in catalyzing that evolution.” Upcoming episodes promise to feature influential figures such as Geoff Inch and Rachel Zerowin from the Circular Action Alliance, who are committed to aiding people in waste reduction and enhancing recycling efforts.

About the Podcast

Change Cycle delves into the intricate dynamics and transformations required to make sustainability a reality. Through conversations with corporate trailblazers, policy innovators, and grassroots advocates, the podcast aims to unveil the uncomfortable truths associated with circular economies, waste minimization, and the fundamental need for systemic change.

Listeners can tune in and subscribe to Change Cycle on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or directly through CSY Impact's website.

The journey towards a sustainable future is fraught with challenges, but through dialogue and shared insights, Change Cycle aims to inspire action and accountability on both individual and systemic levels. As we navigate this critical transition towards sustainability, Yeager and her guests' perspectives could prove invaluable in shaping a future that embodies circular economy principles.

For further inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

Photos and additional resources: CSY Impact