222. Making Sustainability Make Sense with Cecilia Rios

Today, Matt speaks with sustainability podcaster and Georgetown graduate Cecilia Rios about her path into climate work and environmental communications. Cecilia shares how early exposure to environmental science shaped her career, her focus on the intersection of business and sustainability, and her experience taking over the Sustainability Defined podcast. She also highlights the importance of storytelling, education, and how young professionals are finding meaningful roles in climate action.

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Cecilia’s Bio:

Cecilia Rios is a sustainability professional and co-host of Sustainability Defined. She holds an M.S. in Environmental & Sustainability Management from Georgetown University and a B.A. in Environmental Studies from Baylor University. Her work focuses on corporate sustainability strategy, ESG reporting, circular economy solutions, and translating complex climate issues into actionable insights.

Episode Resources

• Sustainability Defined: https://sustainabilitydefined.com
• A Climate Change on Apple: https://bit.ly/accapplepodcast
• A Climate Change on Spotify: https://bit.ly/accspotifypodcast
• A Climate Change on YouTube: https://bit.ly/ACCvids

YouTube Chapters:

• 00:00 – Cold Open
• 02:00 – Cecilia’s path into climate and sustainability
• 04:30 – Why business belongs in climate solutions
• 07:45 – Can markets actually solve climate change?
• 09:00 – Seaweed packaging and plastic alternatives
• 11:00 – Microplastics and public health
• 13:30 – Culture, consumption, and climate behavior
• 16:30 – Overconsumption and corporate responsibility
• 19:00 – Taking over Sustainability Defined
• 22:00 – Aviation, hydrogen fuel, and net zero
• 25:30 – Voting with your dollar vs public policy
• 35:30 – Climate inspiration and final takeaways

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.