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In this episode of the Sustainable Supply Chain Podcast, I sit down with Jon Goriup, Co-Founder and CEO of VCG AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way industries think about waste and sustainability. Jon and his team are pioneering an innovative approach to transforming industrial byproducts into valuable resources, helping companies cut emissions and uncover new revenue streams in the process.

We delve into the mechanics of circular value chains, where waste becomes an asset rather than a liability. Jon explains how VCG AI uses cutting-edge data analytics and AI to map material flows, evaluate waste streams, and recommend optimal upcycling processes—saving companies time and resources while delivering tangible economic and environmental benefits.

Some of the key highlights include:

• The shift in mindset as companies realise the economic potential of waste and embrace circular supply chains.
• Real-world examples, such as transforming spent grains and yeast from breweries into high-value food ingredients.
• How AI accelerates decision-making and implementation, allowing firms to move from analysis to action quickly and effectively.
• The challenges companies face, from navigating complex regulations to addressing non-core business activities, and how these can be mitigated.
• The role of collaboration across supply chains and how VCG AI is enabling large-scale circular transformations, even at the regional level.

Jon also shares how industries and governments can work together to accelerate this transition, the KPIs that matter most, and the broader implications for sustainability globally.

If you’re curious about how technology is reshaping sustainability or looking to gain practical insights into circular economy models, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. As always, if you’d like to connect with Jon or learn more about VCG AI, links are in the show notes.

Listen now and let’s rethink waste together.

 If disruption hit tomorrow, would you know where your supply chain was most exposed? In 15 minutes my free scorecard helps you assess 27 resilience statements, calculate your score, and turn the result into three priorities and a 30 day action plan. You can download the scorecard free at tomraftery.com/scorecard.

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