Dollars and Sense: Making Sustainability Business-Friendly

With Becca Timms,
Founding Principal, Ultreia Advisory
In this episode of Less Talk, More Action, Joel and Owen welcome Becca Timms, Founding Principal at Ultreia Advisory, as they dissect the current state of sustainability and ESG reporting. The conversation explores critical industry challenges, including the over-reliance on complex reporting frameworks and the need for more practical, business-focused approaches to environmental impact. Becca shares insights from her 12-year career, advocating for aligning sustainability efforts with financial goals and breaking down organizational silos. Key discussions include the potential of marine protected areas as an alternative to traditional carbon reduction strategies, the importance of data management, and the need for more flexible, results-driven sustainability initiatives. The episode offers a candid, provocative look at how companies can create meaningful environmental change while maintaining business performance. Don’t miss it!

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • The Focus on Sustainability and ESG Real-Estate (1:49)
  • Marine Protected Areas Concept (4:54)
  • Discussion on Ocean Conservation (6:45)
  • Introduction of Becca Timms (9:00)
  • Becca’s Career Background (10:06)
  • Early Career and Sustainability Journey (12:16)
  • ESG Industry Evolution (14:12)
  • Challenges in Sustainability Reporting (16:38)
  • Data Management and Reporting Difficulties (19:39)
  • Industry Reporting Challenges (24:54)
  • Sales and Solution Pitching Strategies (26:16)
  • Matchmaking in Sustainability (34:42)
  • Technology and Data in Sustainability (38:40)
  • Conference and Industry Networking Ideas (44:34)
  • Optimism for Sustainability Future (46:48)
  • Connecting with Becca and Parting Thoughts (47:53)

 

The nexus of business, policy, and sustainability is more divided than ever, but Less Talk, More Action is here to cut through the noise. Hosted by clean energy experts Joel Cesare and Owen Barrett, this podcast dives into the front lines of decarbonization, net-zero real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each episode features bold questions, real solutions, and stories from leaders in science, tech, and business who are taking action to make the world a better place. Join us as we move beyond talk and work toward a cleaner, net-zero future. Learn more and subscribe at lesstalkmoreaction.com.

About the Hosts

Joel Cesare
Joel Cesare is a visionary leader in sustainable real estate, currently serving as Growth Lead at Cambio, an AI building retrofit analytics platform. He previously led Google's $50B global net zero real estate program and oversaw the building of Santa Monica's City Hall East, one of the world's greenest buildings. Recognized with awards like ENR Top 25 Newsmaker, Living Future Hero, Building Design & Construction 40 under 40, his mission is to dream, inspire and deliver.
Owen Barrett
Owen Barrett is the world's foremost expert in solar on multifamily properties. Owen is currently the CEO of Shine and has over 12 years of experience in the clean technology sector covering fuel cells, HVAC, LED lighting, and of course, solar. Owen is the former Global Energy Manager of a Fortune 500 company and a successful founder with two exits.

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