Sustainability and Nature-Inspired Innovation

Erin Meezan discusses the importance of using nature as a benchmark for sustainability, highlighting Interface's journey towards creating carbon-negative products. By drawing inspiration from nature, such as gecko's feet, Interface innovated to eliminate adhesives and reduce waste. The company also implemented nature-inspired factory designs, like rainwater collection and carbon storage. Meezan emphasizes the importance of collaboration among companies to accelerate sustainable practices and envisions a future where sustainable products contribute to sustainable cities, addressing global warming collectively.

What is considered the best benchmark for companies and countries in addressing climate change?

• Technological advancements

• Government policies

• Economic growth

• Nature

What sector does Interface operate in, which contributes significantly to global carbon emissions?

• Building and construction

• Energy

• Agriculture

• Automotive

What inspired Interface to innovate and move away from using adhesives in their products?

• The structure of a spider's web

• The feet of a gecko

• The wings of a butterfly

• The shell of a turtle

What type of materials has Interface swapped out for more sustainable options?

• Metal and glass

• Wood and stone

• Plastic and rubber

• Recycled and bio-based materials

What natural process does Interface mimic in some of their factory locations to improve sustainability?

• Photosynthesis

• Rainwater harvesting

• Wind energy generation

• Soil regeneration

What is one method mentioned for storing carbon on-site at Interface's facilities?

• Planting vegetation

• Building underground storage

• Using carbon capture technology

• Installing solar panels

What has been the impact of Interface's innovations over 20 years?

• Increased production costs

• Higher carbon emissions

• Decreased product quality

• A net benefit to the environment

What is the ultimate goal for Interface and other companies in terms of sustainability?

• To eliminate all waste

• To reduce costs by 50%

• To develop a carbon-negative carpet tile

• To create a carbon-neutral product

What is the broader vision beyond creating sustainable products?

• A sustainable planet

• A sustainable continent

• A sustainable city

• A sustainable economy

What is essential for addressing global warming effectively?

• Collective action

• Technological innovation

• Individual efforts

• Government intervention