514: Leading Companies Towards Zero Waste with Heather Johnson

How can businesses use eco-friendly practices to comply with regulations and grow successfully? This week, Nicole Jansen talks with Heather Johnson, CEO of INGENIUM and an expert in hazardous waste management with over 25 years of industry experience. Heather’s innovative vision has positioned INGENIUM as a leader in waste-to-energy programs and zero waste initiatives, offering businesses sustainable solutions for hazardous waste management. Heather shares her journey from her first job answering phones at a hazardous waste company to becoming an expert and CEO, shining light on the importance of sustainable practices in business operations. Whether it’s dealing with pharmaceuticals, solvents or mercury, Heather demonstrates how businesses can achieve compliance and grow successfully. Join us as Heather uncovers practical roadmaps for businesses to manage hazardous waste, details the intricacies of zero waste certification, and underscores the transformative potential of sustainability in the corporate world. What We Discuss in this Episode Heather's entry into hazardous waste management Sustainable practices in hazardous waste management Roadmap for businesses to manage hazardous waste Key industries needing waste management services Repurposing and recycling percentages Toxic wastes and safer alternatives Balancing regulations with business growth Gender dynamics in a male-dominated industry The future of sustainable waste management and AI Podcast Highlights 0:00 - Ingenium's Innovative Approach 6:22 - Sustainable Biotech: Repurposing Chemicals Efficiently 8:16 - The Challenges of Replacing Toxic Chemicals 13:05 - Understanding AI's Business Impact 14:38 - The Importance of Environmental Awareness in Households 18:35 - Uncovering Waste Management Issues 21:04 - Advocating for Environmental Awareness Favorite Quotes Sustainable Solutions: "If we can find another company that can use the material before it becomes waste, that's a way to be more sustainable and not just throw it away." Empowering Women: "By learning the industry and being the expert in the conversation, it's hard not to respect me regardless of my gender." Awareness and Action: "Just be mindful. If you do one thing differently, you're making a difference if the aggregate of the whole is doing that." Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/514-leading-companies-towards-zero-waste-with-heather-johnson  Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast  👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media  ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK  ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X/TWITTER