In the May 2024 episode of EcoInsiders, we spoke with Alia Malik, Chief Development Officer, Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). Alia shared her journey from her upbringing and career beginnings to her role in shaping Better Cotton's mission. She discusses her approach to team building and accountability and the importance of people-centered evolution in organizations.
We explored the role of technology, including AI and blockchain, in managing data complexity for traceability. Alia provides insights into the business ecosystems and technology providers working with Better Cotton Initiative and the fit between technologies and real-world challenges.
Finally, Alia outlined Better Cotton's sustainability targets and offers valuable advice for new graduates and mid-career professionals entering the field of sustainability.
Key Discussion Points:
● Development and Evolution of Traceability Systems
● Role of Technology in Sustainability
● Better Cotton's Goals and Initiative
Timestamped Outline:
[00:00:00] Introduction of the episode and the guest
[00:01:00] Alia’s upbringing and career beginnings
[00:03:00] Approach to team building and accountability
[00:04:42] Importance of people-centered evolution in organizations
[00:06:23] Better Cotton and its mission
[00:09:20] Process of building a tracking and tracing system at Better Cotton
[00:11:22] Mass Balance System at Better Cotton
[00:13:00] Importance of accuracy in the traceability system
[00:15:25] Initial resistance from stakeholders, including Better Cotton itself
[00:16:00] Shift in legislative environment and pressure from retailers and brands
[00:25:38] Auditing and material testing
[00:27:00] Technology's role in solving data complexity in traceability, including AI and blockchain
[00:30:49] Business ecosystems and technology providers working with Better Cotton Initiative
[00:31:05] Fit between technologies and real-world challenges, and the limitations of startup technologies
[00:32:26] Insights on the evolution of processes and technology adaptation within BCI
[00:37:00] BCI's targets for 2030, including reducing GHG and pesticide use
[00:40:41] Advice for new graduates and mid-career professionals entering the field of sustainability
