In this episode of Mastering Sustainability, Madeline & Ray sit down with Shawn Wilborne to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the recycling industry; from improving material sorting and reducing contamination to enabling data-driven systems that boost efficiency and accountability.

Shawn shares insights on the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into existing infrastructure, the role technology plays in advancing the circular economy, and what it will take for innovation to move the needle on global sustainability goals truly. Whether you’re a sustainability professional or simply curious about the future of waste, this conversation offers a compelling look at how AI can help build a smarter, more sustainable world.

Shawn's Links:

Lidvizion

The Launch Pad, University of Miami

In this episode of Mastering Sustainability, we're turning to an expert of our own. Estefania Xuclà, Government Affairs Director at Okeanos®, breaks down the rapidly evolving world of EPR and PCR legislation, the ongoing challenges of securing high-quality recyclate, and why upstream material reduction is becoming essential for brands worldwide. She also unpacks the crucial difference between good politics and good policy, offering clear, practical insight into how regulations are shaped, how industry can respond, and what it will take to build smarter, science-driven systems for a lower-impact future.

Estefi's Links:

Linkedin

Packaging Europe

In this episode of Mastering Sustainability, Madeline & Ray sit down with UN photographer and visual storyteller Kiara Worth, whose lens has captured some of the most defining moments in global climate negotiations. From COP conferences to communities on the frontlines of environmental change, Kiara shares what it means to bear witness to both the urgency and the humanity behind sustainability. Together, they explore how images can move policy, inspire action, and remind us of the shared responsibility we hold for the planet’s future—one frame at a time.

Kiara's Links: Linkedin & Instagram

Kiara's Reads:

al Jazeera

UN News Network

The Energy Mix

Monga Bay

Greenpeace