The Beyond Waste Podcast

Inside India’s Invisible Recycling Network

In this special Festival of Circular Economy episode, guest host Mark Shayler sits down with Siddharth Hande of Kabadiwalla Connect to explore one of the most overlooked forces in global sustainability—the informal waste supply chain.
From the streets of Chennai to a data-driven map reshaping how waste is collected and processed, Siddharth shares how formalising waste picking isn’t just about better recycling—it’s about transforming livelihoods, empowering communities, and unlocking hidden value in the materials we throw away.
Eye-opening, inspiring, and grounded in real-world impact, this conversation will change how you see waste forever.

What will the waste sector look like in ten years—and who will lead it?

What will the resource and waste sector look like in ten years—and who will lead it? In this episode of the Beyond Waste podcast, host Katie Cockburn, CIWM/CEI, is joined by Bonni Jee, ASPE, and Sarah Langmaid, University of Exeter, to unpack the future of work in an industry undergoing rapid transformation.
From the rise of digitised logistics and data-driven decision-making to the emergence of new compliance and circular economy roles, we explore how the next generation of resource professionals can adapt, innovate, and thrive. Whether you’re already working in the sector or just curious about the careers shaping a sustainable future, this conversation offers practical insights and forward-thinking strategies to stay ahead of the curve.
Tune in to discover how the skills of tomorrow are being built today.

A Vision for the Future: Meet CIWM’s New President

Lee Marshall, CIWM (host)
Prof David Greenfield, CIWM/ CEI
In this milestone episode of Beyond Waste, we sit down with Dr. David Greenfield for his first official podcast as President of CIWM. With decades of experience in resources, waste, and circular economy innovation, David shares his ambitions for the year ahead—and why now is the time for bold, joined-up action.
We explore the key themes of his Presidential Report 2025, Lost Opportunities?, which calls for urgent change in how the UK captures value from overlooked materials like wool, lithium, and seafood shells. David outlines the need for cross-sector collaboration, smarter design, and policy alignment to transition from linear systems to a truly circular economy.
If you're passionate about sustainability, circular thinking, or the future of resource management, this conversation is essential listening.

Tech Meets Trash: The AI Revolution in Resource Recovery

At the Festival of Circular Economy, host Mark Shayler sits down with Greyparrot Co-Founder Amrish Mitra to explore how cutting-edge AI is reshaping the future of waste.
From teenage tech obsessions to launching ethically-driven companies, Amrish shares the journey that led him to the frontline of resource intelligence.
This episode, sponsored by Greyparrot, dives into how technology can unlock efficiency, transparency, and resilience in the waste and recycling sector—and why that matters more than ever.
Guest Host: Mark Shayler, APE
Guest: Amrish Mitra, Co-founder, Greyparrot Waste Intelligence

Turning Off the Tap: Reflections from the CIWM President

In this special episode, outgoing CIWM President Tim Walker reflects on a pivotal year at the helm.
From launching his presidential report Turning Off the Tap on Materials to representing CIWM at international events and connecting with members across the UK and Ireland, Tim shares key milestones, challenges, and hopes for the future of the sector.
 
Host: Lee Marshall (CIWM)
Guest: Tim Walker (arc21 & CIWM President)

What will it really take to fund a circular economy in the UK?

In this episode, we dive into CIWM’s report on shaping financial and fiscal policy to support a circular future. From tax reform to targeted investment, we explore the tools policymakers and industry leaders need to drive real change.
Joined by expert voices, we connect the dots between headline ambitions and the practical policies needed to get there — drawing on insights from other key reports and looking ahead to what’s next.
Whether you're in policy, business, or just passionate about building a more sustainable future, this is your guide to the economic roadmap of circularity.
Host: Lee Marshall, CIWM
Guests:
Susan Evans, Resource Futures
Paula Chin, WWF - WWF Fast Phones report

Environmental Enemy No. 1: Is Plastic Really the Villain?

Plastics are often seen as sustainability’s public enemy number one, blamed for ocean pollution, microplastic contamination, and more. But is the story that simple?
In this episode, we explore the controversial world of plastics—examining their bad reputation, the rise of innovative alternatives, and the often-overlooked benefits of this material.
Join us as we dive into the debate: are plastics truly the villain we think they are, or could they have a place in a sustainable future if used wisely? 
Host: Lee Marshall, CIWM 
Guests:
Tracy Sutton, Root 
Cat Hay, FDF 

The Circular Avengers: Defra’s Circular Economy Taskforce Assembles!

Secure your place at this year's Resource Conference Cymru - https://shorturl.at/dBMSC
In this episode of Beyond Waste, host Lee Marshall (CIWM) is joined by Robbie Staniforth (Ecosurety) and Simon Rutledge (Biffa) to dive into the launch of Defra’s Circular Economy Taskforce.
What does this bold initiative mean for the UK's resource and waste sectors? And how can it drive tangible progress in circular economy strategies?
Tune in as these expert voices discuss the taskforce's priorities, the critical role of resources and waste in a circular economy, and what’s needed to transform ambition into action.
From actionable policies to long-term strategies, this is your guide to understanding how the taskforce could reshape the future.

No City Left Behind: The CE Revolution – Circular Cities Week Debrief

In this special episode of the Beyond Waste Podcast, we dive into the global momentum behind Circular Cities Week (CCW) and explore how cities around the world are embracing the circular economy revolution.
Join our expert panel as they share insights from events held in four dynamic cities:
London & Brighton & Hove with Dr. David Greenfield (CIWM/CEI & CEC)
Hong Kong with Harry Li (Asia Circular Economy Association / CEC Hong Kong)
Boston with Eric Sargent (MBA Sustainability Candidate / CEC Boston)
Our guests discuss:
The events they hosted and key highlights from their respective regions
The current phase of circular economy implementation within their cities
Lessons learned, successes celebrated, and challenges faced during Circular Cities Week
Discover what it takes to ensure no city is left behind in the circular economy revolution and gain practical insights into creating more sustainable urban environments.
Whether you’re a city planner, policymaker, or a sustainability enthusiast, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
 

2024 in Review: A transformative year in the resource and waste sector

In this year-end wrap-up episode of the Beyond Waste Podcast, host Lee Marshall is joined by Charlotte Davies, CIWM’s Early Careers President, to reflect on a transformative year in the resource and waste sector.
From major policy developments like EPR, DRS, and the disposable vapes ban, to the impact of a new government and the launch of the Circular Economy Taskforce, we explore the stories that shaped 2024.
Charlotte also shares her journey in the sector, and we look ahead to what’s on the horizon for the early careers team in 2025.
Tune in for insights, reflections, and a forward look at the future of resources and waste.