An Interview With Wanda Malhotra
Popularise Circular Economy Practices: Enter the Renaissance of the circular economy, where products are revitalised through innovative design, repairability, and recyclability. In a similar light, pay close attention to reusing and recycling, minimising waste and rejuvenating resources. Noteworthy projections suggest that transitioning to a circular economy could unlock a staggering $4.5 trillion in economic opportunities by 2030.
As we face an unprecedented environmental crisis, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. This series seeks to spotlight the innovative minds and passionate advocates who are leading the charge in environmental conservation and sustainable practices. We aim to explore the most effective strategies, breakthrough technologies, and transformative policies that are shaping a more sustainable future for our planet. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Ketan Dattani.
Ketan Dattani is a multi-award-winning environmental entrepreneur. He holds 25 years of environmental recruitment experience and has a high profile within the sector.
Academically Ketan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Biotechnology and a Master’s degree in Environmental Planning and Management.
He is the Founding Owner and CEO of Buckingham Futures, a specialist award-winning Environmental Health consultancy that provides bespoke permanent and temporary talent acquisition and consultancy solutions to public and private sector employers.
Ketan’s corporate policies and actions are designed to reduce carbon footprint, give back to the community and encourage the protection of the environment.
Thank you so much for joining us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’?
From a young age, I developed an avid interest in the environment. As I got older, I comprehended that Environmental matters were of little significance in 80s London; Margaret Thatcher had declared that there was no such thing as society and no one understood that more than the inner-city populaces that bore the brunt of a broken nation.
Having failed in the school system it was my avid interest in Environmental matters that led me back to education and to my academic choices of undertaking a degree in Environmental Biology and a Masters degree in Environmental Planning and Management.
After completing my post-graduate degree in 1998, I struggled to find a role within the Environmental sector and so began my career in recruitment.
I set up Buckingham Futures, a specialist Consultancy supplying Environmental Health personnel across the Private and Public sectors on a nationwide basis as I identified an opportunity to aid Environmental Health professionals to fill the gap in the employment sector caused by significant challenges to the global economy caused population growth, increasing demand for natural resources, soaring costs of energy and escalating impacts of climate change.
Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
My biggest takeaways have come from the blunt conversations that happen in boardrooms when challenging outmoded standards. This can include issues such as climate change, diversity, as well as insinuations that stray into greenwashing.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
I would safely say that three character traits which have crafted me as an individual include:
1. Curiosity: As the owner of a business which was initially solely reliant on myself, I had to keep my thirst for learning new things alive to take on brand new tasks which I wasn’t initially equipped for. No marketers, no recruiters and no one to fix the code when it decided to go haywire.
Tutorials and insights from others within those departments were conducive and enabled me to make a rapid start on my business when I didn’t have any prior knowledge.
However, the most colossal thing I pride myself on is my on-going curiosity about the ever-changing environment. I regularly attended meet-ups and networking events to absorb more information on the way others handle entrepreneurship.
Environmental exhibitions also deserve to be put onto centre stage and sustain my eagerness to progress, as I consistently keep up with current changes in regulations within an array of areas (pesticide use, habits to better sustainability, research within the field of healthy food consumption, and so forth. Always stay curious.
2. Positivity: Another character trait which defines me is one which affects those around me, especially my invaluable employees and has the power to merrily brighten or negatively dampen their day by default.
By positivity, I don’t mean the duration of 24 hours daily is bound to be churned out without any flaws, but rather, I’m a firm believer in looking for the good in the little things. A slow, rose-coloured sunset peeking out the window on a crisp morning and the first sip of water in the morning.
This favourable mindset has the potential to dictate the way in which results are produced and in turn, determine the overarching success rate within a company. Imagine an office filled to the brim with a community of grinning individuals; affirmative energy leads to spearheaded results as the people behind the smile will be fuelled to work harder.
In short, they’ll feel more empowered and simultaneously placed in a state of — that’s the case for me.
Some personal strategies which I’ve found have immensely worked for me to create positivity day to day include mindful meditation, comprehensive exercise, spending time with close family, and ensuring my system has enough leafy greens and organically-induced sugar from fruit!
Again, it’s the little things.
3. Passion: Thirdly, another trait which creates a successful leader, is having a fiery passion for what I do from an entrepreneurial standpoint. In order for clients or candidates to see purpose in my business, I, first and foremost, myself, have had to believe in the image of my company and create it from a place of passion, not simply from a monetary perspective.
A company should be reminiscent of a hobby, not a chore. With that mindset, hours you put into it will not feel as draining, and in fact, there will be days where if asked about long work hours, I can say “…work?”
Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that might help people?
I currently have an array of projects, however, it’s only when they’re fully live and ready for the public eye would I wish to speak about them! For that reason, I’ll keep the answer to this question snappy. One ongoing initiative I can mention however, is my work towards tree planting.
I’m aware of the alarming statistics regarding deforestation — a large issue since the late 1900s which has led to a loss of approximately 420 million hectares of forests worldwide.
To speed up tree regeneration, I’ve implemented a few creative strategies, for example, planting a tree at my local temple every time a timesheet is submitted internally, or calculating the total carbon in the air I was the culprit behind, when partaking in air travel and offsetting it by also planting seeds into the ground to lead to higher oxygen quality.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview. What pivotal moment led you to dedicate your career to sustainability, and how has that shaped your approach to environmental challenges?
I’ve always worshipped Dharti Mata (Mother Earth). Ever since I was a child, I’d frolic in the sunlit emerald green grasses ensuring no insect gets accidentally stepped on with a magnifying glass, while other children my age would either play within the circumference of a concrete jungle. I definitely stood out, in the sense that I felt as if the outdoors was my home, and felt most like myself in scenery held up by pines.
As the years went on, I began to eagle in on environmental issues, and decided I couldn’t stay silent. I knew the state of our environment was deteriorating, long before there was a global, cohesive approach in the wider world and before the modern ‘environmental movement’.
I therefore founded Buckingham Futures as a response to the crisis, and ensured that my organisation will serve as both a place for fair recruitment, but mainly, to educate and bring awareness about sustainability.
Could you describe a groundbreaking project or initiative you’ve been involved in that significantly contributed to sustainability?
I’m consistently involved in sustainability projects as it is wholeheartedly one of my top priorities, and I must make our environment thrive.
To note, a prominent recent venture I particularly enjoyed was a few weeks ago when I was able to contribute some of my time to the Gratitude Charity. I took my two youngest kids along with me to a bulb planting in Southern Hertfordshire. Bulb planting helps increase nectar courses for beneficial pollinators. It was wonderful because I got to do something to contribute to sustainability and enjoy some quality time with my kids on the weekend.
I hope to pass down the care I have for the environment onto them. It’s really the younger generation that needs to stand up for our Earth.
How do you navigate the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation in your sustainability strategies?
There are a few mindful ways in which I ensure that my company matures all while staying environmentally-conscious.
Firstly, the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation is a crucial challenge for businesses aiming to implement sustainable strategies. Here are some approaches that I as a business owner implement truthfully:
1. Setting Clear Sustainability Goals: Within the way I operate, I make sure to define specific, measurable, and time-bound sustainability goals that encompass both economic and environmental aspects. This could include targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimising waste generation, and increasing energy efficiency.
2. Integrated Decision-Making: By incorporating sustainability considerations into all aspects of business decision-making processes, I evaluate the environmental impacts of new products, services, and operational practices alongside their economic feasibility.
3. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and its focus: I’ve familiarised myself with the concept by conducting comprehensive life cycle assessments to visualise and understand the full environmental impact of products or services from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. This information is used to identify opportunities for improvement and prioritise sustainability efforts.
4. Resource Efficiency: With this in mind, I Implement measures to improve resource efficiency and reduce waste generation throughout the value chain. This could involve investing in energy-efficient technologies, optimising production processes, and promoting recycling and reuse initiatives.
5. Innovation and R&D: Within Buckingham Futures, I allocate resources towards research and development efforts aimed at developing more sustainable products, services, and business models. Innovation within the organisation should be encouraged to find creative solutions that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.
6. Transparency and Reporting: By consistently being transparent about the company’s sustainability performance and progress towards goals by regularly reporting on key environmental metrics. This demonstrates accountability and allows stakeholders to track the company’s sustainability efforts over time.
7. Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with other businesses, industry associations, NGOs, and government agencies to address common sustainability challenges and leverage collective expertise and resources.
8. Long-Term Thinking: Adopt a long-term perspective that recognises the interconnectedness of economic, environmental, and social factors. Consider the potential long-term risks and opportunities associated with environmental degradation and climate change when making strategic decisions.
9. Continuous Improvement: Treat sustainability as an ongoing journey rather than a one-time initiative. Continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of sustainability strategies, and be willing to adapt and evolve in response to changing circumstances and new information.
What emerging technologies or innovations do you believe hold the most promise for advancing sustainability and why?
We are certainly in an age of innovation. Technology leaders are working on everything from public electric transport to accessible solar energy, and carbon sequestration. However the areas that I believe hold a great deal of promise for advancing sustainability are electric vehicles and green architecture. I believe this because both industries are simply altering activities we already heavily participate in. In turn, it makes it easier to retain consumers with sustainability objectives as they are shifts that are easier to grasp and will not be a ‘cultural shock.’
1. Electric vehicles (EVs) and green architecture play crucial roles in advancing sustainability by significantly reducing carbon emissions and promoting resource efficiency. For example, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping to mitigate air pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global electric car fleet avoided emitting over 40 million tonnes of CO2 in 2020.
To bring this information home further, EVs are more energy-efficient than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Electric motors can convert more than 60% of the electrical energy from the grid to power the wheels, while internal combustion engines typically only convert around 20% of the energy stored in gasoline.
When charged with renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power, EVs facilitate the integration of clean energy into the transportation sector, further reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
2. Green Architecture:
Green buildings incorporate energy-efficient features such as insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, and energy-efficient appliances. According to the (U.S.) Green Building Council, green buildings can reduce energy use by up to 50% compared to conventional buildings globally. Secondly, Green architecture emphasises the use of sustainable and recycled materials, reducing resource consumption and minimising waste generation during construction. For example, using reclaimed wood or recycled steel can significantly reduce the environmental impact of building materials.
Finally, green buildings are designed to maximise natural ventilation and minimise exposure to indoor pollutants, promoting better indoor air quality. This can lead to improved occupant health and productivity.
Overall, electric vehicles and green architecture are integral components of a sustainable future, helping to reduce carbon emissions, conserve resources, and create healthier and more resilient communities.
Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Top Strategies for a Cleaner Planet”?
My 5 Top Strategies for a Cleaner Planet are:
1. Renewable Energy: Embrace the potential of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower, marking a pivotal shift towards sustainability. Transitioning to renewables presents a significant opportunity to mitigate our carbon footprint. Notably, renewable energy accounted for a remarkable 72% of all new power capacity additions globally in 2019, surpassing traditional fossil fuels. This strategic transition not only addresses climate change but also fosters cleaner skies and waters, offering a promising trajectory for future generations.
2. Sustainable Mobility: Befriend sustainable transportation, where urban landscapes resonate with the hum of public transit, cycling lanes, and electric vehicles. By embracing these alternatives, our efforts lead to reduced emissions. Wonderfully, electric vehicles emit zero tailpipe emissions and have the potential to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 54% compared to conventional vehicles. Let us pave the way with infrastructure enhancements such as bike lanes and charging stations, guiding us towards cleaner air and smoother mobility.
3. Popularise Circular Economy Practices: Enter the Renaissance of the circular economy, where products are revitalised through innovative design, repairability, and recyclability. In a similar light, pay close attention to reusing and recycling, minimising waste and rejuvenating resources. Noteworthy projections suggest that transitioning to a circular economy could unlock a staggering $4.5 trillion in economic opportunities by 2030.
4. A Complete Ecosystem of Conservation and Restoration: Research the cause of ecosystem conservation and restoration, becoming stewards of the land and biodiversity. Did you know that forests alone absorb approximately 2.6 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, equivalent to one-third of global emissions from fossil fuels? By restoring these critical ecosystems, we create a wall of resilience against the discord of climate change and biodiversity loss.
5. Sustainable Consumption and Production: Embrace the ethos of sustainable consumption and production, where every decision is a domino-like effect to our planet’s wellbeing. Shift the focus onto products crafted from eco-friendly materials and use energy-efficient appliances that embody guideful environmental relations. Remarkably, sustainable production practices could potentially reduce global carbon emissions by up to 90% by 2050.
In your view, what are the key steps individuals, communities, and governments need to take to achieve a more sustainable future?
The key steps individuals, communities, and governments need to take to achieve a more sustainable future is putting in place the right incentives to encourage more sustainable behaviour. This can be delivered via government regulation, tax incentives, subsidies, and through changes in public opinion that can influence consumer behaviour to favour environmentally responsible companies and organisations.
We need to make it so that sustainability makes good business sense, not just a tick box exercise.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
I would love to see more people get involved in mentoring. It is more than the transfer of advice, knowledge and insights. As well as the personal satisfaction of sharing skills and experience, being involved in mentoring also provides exposure to fresh perspectives, ideas and approaches and an opportunity to reflect on my own goals and practices.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
I am most active on Instagram (@ketanova) and LinkedIn
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.
About the Interviewer: Wanda Malhotra is a wellness entrepreneur, lifestyle journalist, and the CEO of Crunchy Mama Box, a mission-driven platform promoting conscious living. CMB empowers individuals with educational resources and vetted products to help them make informed choices. Passionate about social causes like environmental preservation and animal welfare, Wanda writes about clean beauty, wellness, nutrition, social impact and sustainability, simplifying wellness with curated resources. Join Wanda and the Crunchy Mama Box community in embracing a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle at CrunchyMamaBox.com .
The Future Is Green: Ketan Dattani On Their Top Strategies for a Cleaner Planet was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.