An Interview With Monica Sanders
Promoting sustainability and climate justice often requires thinking outside the box and taking risks. Innovation can lead to new ideas, products, and processes that can drive progress towards a more sustainable future.
According to the University of Colorado, “Those who are most affected and have the fewest resources to adapt to climate change are also the least responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions — both globally and within the United States.” Promoting climate justice is an incredibly important environmental responsibility that is slowly becoming more and more recognized. In this interview series, we are talking to leaders who are helping to promote sustainability and climate justice. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing
Aalia Mauro is a visionary Environmentalist, Serial Tech Entrepreneur, and the Founder and CEO of Verte Mode, an innovative sustainable tech Platform that is revolutionizing the way we think about sustainable living. With over a decade of experience in the retail tech, sustainability, and marketing fields, Aalia has helped dozens of companies transform their businesses with her innovative approaches. A Certified Sustainability Professional, Aalia’s impressive background in tech and sustainability has made her a sought-after speaker at conferences and events worldwide. Her commitment to building a more conscious community through intelligent green living and truth-telling is inspiring, and she continues to lead the way in sustainable innovation.
@aaliamauro and www.vertemode.com
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Everyone has a cataclysmic moment or marker in their life which propels them to take certain actions, a “why”. What is your why?
Growing up, sustainability values were already instilled in me as my family practiced eco-friendly habits such as eating mostly vegetarian, buying from local farmers, and using local artisans for clothes. However, it wasn’t until I became a mother that my passion for sustainability truly sparked. As I searched for safe and eco-friendly products for my child, I was appalled by the amount of greenwashing and toxic chemicals in everyday products. This experience compelled me to educate myself and others on sustainable living, eventually leading me to become a sustainability consultant and activist.
Having worked in consumer goods & fashion industries for years, I have witnessed firsthand the environmental damage and the horrible working conditions for workers. This experience further fueled my commitment to creating sustainable solutions that benefit not only the environment but also the people who produce and use them. I believe that sustainable living should not only be accessible and affordable but should also be ethical and socially responsible.
My “why” is to create a more sustainable, just, and equitable world for all. I am committed to fighting for climate justice and an equitable future, and to creating a world where sustainable living is accessible to everyone. I believe that sustainable living is not just a trend, but a way of life that is crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of our planet and future generations.
You are currently leading an organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change?
Certainly. At Verte Mode, we are on a mission to bring about positive change for our planet. Our aim is to make sustainable living easy and accessible to everyone, by providing eco-friendly alternatives to everyday products that are not only better for the environment but also for people’s health.
Through our e-commerce platform, Verte Mode, we offer a range of sustainable products and services that help our customers reduce plastic waste and make more conscious choices. In addition, we provide educational resources through our digital media platform, Verte Magazine, and our Sustainably Speaking podcast, which aims to raise awareness about sustainability and inspire action.
We are passionate about creating a more sustainable future for all and believe that everyone can play a part in making a positive impact on our planet. At Verte Mode, we are constantly exploring innovative approaches and solutions to promote sustainability and fight climate change. We believe that together, we can create a world where sustainability is not just a trend but a way of life, and we are committed to making a meaningful difference for our planet and future generations.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
Since founding Verte Mode, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with many other individuals and organizations in the sustainability space, and these interactions have been some of the most interesting experiences I’ve had. It’s been truly inspiring to meet with like-minded people who are also working towards creating a more sustainable future for all.
I have met other founders of sustainable brands, who’ve become our partners on VM marketplace, we exchanged ideas on innovations and community-building, and shared about the latest developments and initiatives in the space. These interactions have been invaluable in helping me grow both personally and professionally, and have provided me with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration in my work at Verte Mode.
One particular experience that stands out was attending a sustainability conference where I had the opportunity to network with a range of individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries. The conference was a fantastic platform for sharing ideas, exploring collaborations, and discussing challenges and opportunities in the sustainability space. It was amazing to see the passion and dedication that everyone had towards creating a more sustainable future, and it left me feeling motivated and inspired.
It’s been incredible to be part of a community of individuals who share a common goal of building a more sustainable future for our planet, and I look forward to continuing to connect with and learn from others in this space.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
Absolutely, I believe that having mentors and cheerleaders is crucial to achieving success, and I have been fortunate to have many individuals who have played a significant role in my growth and development.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to take inspiration from everyone, from all walks of life. I’ve met people who have brought a unique perspective and insight to the table, and I’ve learned that we can all learn from each other, regardless of our backgrounds or experiences.
One individual who has been instrumental in my journey as an entrepreneur is my former co-founder from my first tech startup. I was only 20 years old and still in engineering school. Emily was 15 years my senior and already a successful CEO of big companies when we started our company together. Despite eventually going our separate ways, we have remained close and continue to cheer each other on in our respective endeavors, exchange ideas, and motivate each other on all the latest innovations and trends in the tech industry. Her experience and wisdom have been invaluable to me over the years, and I continue to learn from her example.
One story that comes to mind was when we were building our first ERP systems product together. We faced many challenges, including financial constraints, limited resources, and technical difficulties. Despite the odds, we persevered, and we eventually launched a successful product that was well-received in the market.
While her influence on me was significant, I’ve also had other mentors who’ve taught me the importance of perseverance, of staying true to your values. I am grateful for the support and guidance of the many mentors and cheerleaders who have helped me along the way, and I continue to learn and grow as I work towards creating a more sustainable future through my work at Verte Mode.
Thank you for that. Let’s now move to the central part of our discussion. Let’s start with a basic definition of terms so that everyone is on the same page. What does climate justice mean to you? How do we operationalize it?
Certainly. Climate justice means addressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities and ensuring that everyone has equal access to a healthy and sustainable environment.
To operationalize climate justice, we need to take a comprehensive approach that addresses both the social and environmental aspects of sustainability. This means addressing the root causes of climate change, such as unsustainable consumption patterns and reliance on fossil fuels, while also addressing the underlying social and economic factors that perpetuate inequality.
At Verte Mode, we approach climate justice through our commitment to sustainable and ethical practices throughout our entire supply chain. We prioritize working with partners and suppliers who share our values and prioritize fair labor practices, use sustainable materials, and minimize their environmental impact.
We also believe in educating our customers about the importance of making conscious choices and supporting sustainable practices. By prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all.
Operationalizing climate justice requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues. By addressing the root causes of inequality and environmental degradation, we can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
Science is telling us that we have 7–10 years to make critical decisions about climate change. What are three things you or your organization are doing to help?
Certainly. The science is clear — we have a limited window of time to take action on climate change. At Verte Mode, we are committed to doing our part to help mitigate the impact of climate change. Here are three things we are doing to make a difference:
- Promoting Sustainable Products and Services — We believe that sustainable living should be easy and accessible for everyone. That’s why we offer a range of sustainable products and services that help our customers reduce plastic waste and make more conscious choices. From reusable water bottles and straws to sustainable fashion and beauty products, we prioritize working with partners who share our values and are committed to sustainability.
- Educating Our Customers — We believe that education is a crucial aspect of addressing climate change. That’s why we provide educational resources through our digital media platform, Verte Magazine, and our Sustainably Speaking podcast. We aim to raise awareness about sustainability and inspire action by sharing stories, tips, and insights from experts in the field.
- Prioritizing Sustainable Practices — We believe that businesses have a responsibility to support climate justice. That’s why we prioritize sustainable and ethical practices throughout our entire supply chain. We work with partners and suppliers who prioritize fair labor practices, use sustainable materials, and minimize their environmental impact.
We are committed to doing our part to help mitigate the impact of climate change. By promoting sustainable products and services, educating our customers, and prioritizing sustainable practices, we can work towards creating a more sustainable and equitable future. The time for action is now, and we are committed to doing our part to make a difference.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you in your mission?
Absolutely. We believe that addressing climate change requires collaboration and action from all sectors of society. Here are three things that the community, society, or politicians can do to help us in our mission:
- Support Sustainable Practices — We encourage individuals and organizations to prioritize sustainability and ethical practices in their own lives and businesses. This includes reducing single-use plastic waste, supporting sustainable agriculture and forestry, and investing in renewable energy.
- Advocate for Climate Policies — We believe that government policies play a crucial role in addressing climate change. We encourage individuals to advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of vulnerable communities, support sustainable practices, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Prioritize Climate Education — We believe that education is a crucial aspect of addressing climate change. We encourage individuals and organizations to prioritize climate education by sharing resources and information, engaging in discussions, and supporting educational initiatives.
Addressing climate change requires action from all sectors of society. By supporting sustainable practices, advocating for climate policies, and prioritizing climate education, we can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
How would you articulate how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and more environmentally conscious? Can you share a story or example?
Certainly. Businesses can become more profitable by prioritizing sustainability and environmental consciousness. Here are a few ways in which sustainable practices can benefit a business:
- Cost Savings — By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can often save money on energy, water, and waste disposal costs. For example, by using energy-efficient lighting and equipment, businesses can reduce their energy bills and save money in the long term.
- Brand Reputation — Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions. By prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices, businesses can build a positive brand reputation and attract customers who share their values.
- Innovation — Adopting sustainable practices often requires businesses to think creatively and innovate in order to reduce their environmental impact. This can lead to new products, services, and processes that can benefit the business and the environment.
Allbirds is a footwear company that emphasizes sustainability in all aspects of their business, from materials sourcing to manufacturing practices.
Allbirds uses materials such as wool, eucalyptus, and sugarcane to create eco-friendly footwear products. They also prioritize ethical manufacturing practices and partner with factories that provide fair wages and safe working conditions for their employees.
By prioritizing sustainability, Allbirds has been able to attract customers who value transparency and ethical practices, ultimately driving financial success for the company. In 2020, Allbirds was valued at $1.7 billion, demonstrating that sustainability and ethical practices can be profitable in the fashion industry.
Moreover, Allbirds’ emphasis on sustainability and transparency has helped to build a positive brand reputation and customer loyalty. By being open about their materials sourcing and manufacturing practices, Allbirds has built trust with their customers, which has resulted in increased brand loyalty and repeat purchases.
This is the signature question we ask in most of our interviews. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started promoting sustainability and climate justice” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
1 . One thing I wish someone had told me when I first started promoting sustainability and climate justice is the importance of prioritizing behavioral change. While technological solutions and policy changes are important, individual behavior and consumption patterns also play a significant role in addressing climate change.
2 . Promoting sustainability and climate justice often requires thinking outside the box and taking risks. Innovation can lead to new ideas, products, and processes that can drive progress towards a more sustainable future.
3 . It’s important to focus on both short-term and long-term solutions. While it’s important to address urgent environmental issues like reducing carbon emissions, it’s also critical to think about the long-term impacts of our actions. This includes planning for climate resilience and promoting sustainable practices that can have lasting impact.
4 . The importance of intersectionality. Climate change is not just an environmental issue, but also a social and economic issue. Recognizing and addressing the ways in which environmental issues intersect with other social justice issues is critical in promoting a more just and equitable future.
5 . It’s important to focus on both short-term and long-term solutions. While it’s important to address urgent environmental issues like reducing carbon emissions, it’s also critical to think about the long-term impacts of our actions. This includes planning for climate resilience and promoting sustainable practices that can have lasting impact.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
Actually, I’d like to chat with 2 people. 🙂 Jon Stewart and Vandana Shiva. Their work has personally inspired me in many ways.
Jon Stewart’s ability to use humor and satire to address important social and political issues has been a source of inspiration for me. He is not afraid to tackle difficult topics and speak truth to power, and his work has been instrumental in raising awareness and driving change on a wide range of issues.
Similarly, Vandana Shiva’s work as an environmental activist and scholar has had a profound impact on my thinking and approach to sustainability. Her advocacy for biodiversity and sustainable agriculture has helped to promote more responsible and equitable approaches to food production, and her work to empower small-scale farmers and communities has had a real impact on the lives of people around the world.
What I find particularly inspiring about both Jon Stewart and Vandana Shiva is their commitment to social and environmental justice. They are both dedicated to promoting equity, justice, and sustainability, and their work has been instrumental in driving positive change in the world. Their example inspires me to work towards a more just and sustainable future for all, and to use my own platform and voice to promote positive change in the world.
How can our readers continue to follow your work online?
I’m available @aaliamauro on all social media platforms. Also you can follow my “Sustainably Speaking” podcast on all podcast channels.
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
About the Interviewer: Monica Sanders JD, LL.M, is the founder of “The Undivide Project”, an organization dedicated to creating climate resilience in underserved communities using good tech and the power of the Internet. She holds faculty roles at the Georgetown University Law Center and the Tulane University Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy. Professor Sanders also serves on several UN agency working groups. As an attorney, Monica has held senior roles in all three branches of government, private industry, and nonprofits. In her previous life, she was a journalist for seven years and the recipient of several awards, including an Emmy. Now the New Orleans native spends her time in solidarity with and championing change for those on the frontlines of climate change and digital divestment. Learn more about how to join her at: www.theundivideproject.org
How Aalia Mauro Of Verte Mode Is Helping To Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.