#117: Eliminating The ‘Middle Mile’ In Food Distribution with Relocalize
In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we connect with Wayne McIntyre, CEO of Relocalize, about how autonomous microfactories placed at distribution centers could revolutionize food production by eliminating transport emissions and reducing costs. They explore why packaged ice was the ideal starting point for helping this idea become reality, how robotics and AI streamline operations to make decentralized food production and distribution possible, and why reimagining the entire supply chain, not just improving individual links, is critical for building a more sustainable and resilient food system.Key Points:Food Supply Chains Are a Major Climate Contributor: Nearly 18% of food-related greenhouse gas emissions come from packaging, transport, and processing — underscoring the need to rethink how food gets from farm to plate.Relocalize Pioneers Autonomous Microfactories: By installing small, fully automated factories at distribution centers, Relocalize eliminates most transportation and cold storage, reducing emissions and costs.Better Economics and Sustainability for Retailers: Retailers benefit from dedicated supply, lower shrink and waste, reduced emissions, and better product quality — all while improving their bottom line.Voices on The Show: Wayne McIntyre, CEO and co-founder of Relocalize, LinkedInLuis de Leon, Senior Account Executive at Technica Communications, LinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings… Visit our website for more episodes!Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!Are you new to Earthlings 2.0 and don’t know where to get started? Check out our Life at 3C episode on our websiteThanks for tuning in! If you like what we’re doing over at Earthlings 2.0, you can support us by heading over to our Patreon Page.Let’s stay connected! Follow Earthlings 2.0 Socials for the latest updates and news: Follow us on LinkedInFollow us on Instagram Follow us on our Facebook PageFollow us on X Thanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!
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#113: Concentrated Solar that’s Full of Hot Air with 247Solar
In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we speak with Bruce Anderson, CEO of 247Solar, about the next generation of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and how it’s being reimagined to overcome the challenges that have long held the technology back. Anderson explains why traditional CSP struggled with complexity, high costs, and molten salt storage, and how 247Solar’s modular, air-based systems are addressing those issues head-on. From a commercial demonstration plant in India to localized manufacturing in emerging markets, the conversation dives deep into how this technology can provide reliable, baseload clean energy and spur economic development. Key Points:Concentrated Solar Power Has Deep Roots but Slow Growth: CSP dates back to ancient civilizations but has struggled in the modern era due to cost, complexity, and infrastructure demands.247Solar’s Solution Is Modular, Air-Based, and Scalable: Bruce discusses how their systems use ambient-pressure hot air, not steam or salts, and are built in small, repeatable units — lowering cost and enabling fast deployment.Real-World Projects Are Already Underway: The company is building a 400 kW demonstration plant in India, with plans for larger installations and a growing global pipeline.Bruce Anderson, CEO of 247Solar, LinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability, LinkedIn
The Earthlings Podcast takes a look at the big issues facing humanity in the early 21st century and our relationship to our environment, technology, and each other. Each episode, award-winning journalist, and former NPR reporter Lisa Ann Pinkerton hosts experts, scientists, and leaders working to solve the world’s biggest challenges. Together, they cover wide-ranging topics including environmental solutions, emerging technologies, what the future might look like, and more.
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