HappyPorch Radio: Circular Economy & Technology

Technology isn't magic. And neither is the bin, even though most of us treat it like one.In this episode of HappyPorch Radio, Barry O'Kane speaks with Tom Passmore, CIO and co-founder of Dsposal, a company that has spent a decade building technology for the UK waste sector. Tom has a vivid way of describing the core problem: the moment someone decides they don't want something, it's dead to them. All the nostalgia, all the value, gone. It goes to the magic away place.But what actually happens in that magic away place matters enormously, and the UK has something most countries don't: roughly 10 years of structured public waste data. Dsposal's work is about joining that data together, building tools on top of it, and helping organisations move from simply complying with waste regulations to genuinely understanding what's happening with their waste and why.Tom is unusually candid about the pace of change. A customer portal his team built sat untouched for eight years before usage suddenly accelerated post-COVID. The data didn't change. The questions did. And that shift, from asking what and where to asking why, is where Tom sees real change beginning.The conversation also gets into the UK government's new Digital Waste Tracking programme, where Tom plays the role of critical friend, broadly supportive of the direction but direct about the gaps, particularly around who gets to see the data and whether phase two will track waste or just the vehicles carrying it.✨ In this episode:Tom explains why the "magic away place" mindset is the root problem in waste managementWe explore the three public datasets that underpin Dsposal's products and what they reveal when connectedTom describes the shift from compliance-driven questions to "why" questions, and what triggered itBarry and Tom discuss Digital Waste Tracking: what's working, what's missing, and why the technology is the easy partTom shares what 10 years of building waste tech has taught him about naivety, humility, and behaviour changeWe hear Tom's vision for using data to map every take-back scheme in the country, and his honest assessment of AI readiness in the waste sector👤 About our guest:Tom Passmore is the CIO and co-founder of Dsposal, a web platform that has spent 10 years making waste management easier, more transparent, and more compliant for organisations across the UK. Dsposal works with universities, NHS trusts, science parks, local authorities, and small to medium waste management companies, connecting public waste data with tools that help users find legal waste outlets, track compliance, and increasingly drill into the why behind their waste patterns. Tom is an active voice in the UK waste data community, serves as a critical friend to DEFRA's Digital Waste Tracking programme, and is passionate about the untapped potential in the UK's public waste datasets.🌍 About HappyPorchHappyPorch is a purpose-driven software engineering consultancy focused on the circular economy.Learn more: https://www.happyporch.com💌 Subscribe to HappyPorch Circular NewsHappyPorch Circular News is our monthly newsletter for people working in and around the circular economy and technology.Subscribe at:https://www.happyporch.com/newsletter/▶️ Listen and subscribeStream this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, iHeart, Pocket Casts — or wherever you get your podcasts..Visit https://www.happyporchradio.com to explore more episodes.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

What have we learned so far this season about the realities of rental and product-as-a-service models, and where does technology really make the difference?In this special mid-season reflection of HappyPorch Radio, hosts Barry O’Kane, Jo Weston and Tandi Tuakli look back at the conversations so far, drawing out the common themes, challenges and opportunities from entrepreneurs, academics and technology providers working at the forefront of circularity.We revisit highlights from:Refulfil – Danai Osmond explained how smart reverse logistics and return flows can unlock circular commerce, reduce waste, and make reuse systems viable at scaleBaboodle – Katie Hanton-Parr explored rental models for children’s products and family life, showing how convenience and flexibility can drive adoption alongside sustainability goalsBlack Winch – Yann Toutant brought insights from circular business strategy and advisory work, highlighting the organisational and financial challenges of scaling circular modelsSupercycle – Ryan Atkins discussed tackling e-bike refurbishment and how service-based models can support both sustainable transport and profitable growthCircularity.fm – Patrick Hypscher highlighted product-as-a-service models and the importance of building flexible, modular tech stacks that enable iteration and long-term resilienceLeah Pollen – emphasised that circularity alone doesn’t automatically solve issues like waste or planned obsolescence, but that models such as device leasing can align incentives and create meaningful opportunities for reuse and longer product lifeLucy Wishart – explored how reducing “consumer work” through seamless services like delivery, setup, and return can make rental experiences more attractive, and how community engagement can amplify the reach and impact of circular models✨ In this episode:We reflect on the wider context, including why global circularity has fallen to just 6.9%We explore insights from guests tackling logistics, finance, customer experience and design for durabilityWe hear how service excellence and reducing “consumer work” are proving key to rental adoptionWe discuss the role of technology, from scrappy spreadsheets to IoT and APIs, and why flexibility mattersWe highlight the importance of ecosystems, partnerships and mindset shifts inside organisationsWe share our takeaways so far, and what we’re excited to explore in the rest of the season📌 Mentioned in this episode:Refulfil: https://refulfil.com | Danai Osmond on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaiosmond/Baboodle: https://www.baboodle.co.uk | Katie Hanton-Parr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiehanton/Black Winch: https://www.blackwinch.com | Yann Toutant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asaservicebyyanntoutant/Supercycle: https://www.supercycle.shop | Ryan Atkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-atkins/Circularity.fm: https://www.circularity.fm | Patrick Hypscher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-hypscher/University of Edinburgh (circular economy lecturer)| Lucy Wishart on LInkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andersonlucyj/Retech Roundtable Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/leah-pollen/Leah Pollen on LInkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaiosmond/?originalSubdomain=uk🎙️ About the hosts:Barry O’Kane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barryokane/Jo Weston on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-weston-5b04322/Tandi Tuakli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tandituakli/🌍 About HappyPorch:HappyPorch is a purpose-driven software engineering consultancy focused on the circular economy. We believe technology plays a vital role in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to biodiversity loss. If you're working on circular economy solutions, we’d love to support your journey, whether through fractional CTO services, full product teams or practical guidance. Learn more at https://www.happyporch.com💌 Subscribe to HappyPorch Circular News Our monthly newsletter explores the intersection of circularity and digital tools.Discover inspiring people and ideas Be first to hear about new podcast episodes Explore tools, articles and trends shaping circular techSubscribe at https://www.happyporch.com/newsletter/🎙️ Explore the Circular Economy Podcasts Guide We’ve curated a growing list of the best podcasts exploring the circular economy, searchable by theme, region or topic. Browse the guide at https://circulareconomypodcasts.guide/🎧 Listen and subscribe: Stream this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your podcasts. Visit https://www.happyporchradio.com to explore more episodes.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

How Tech Enables Circular Innovation – with Patrick HypscherWhat does it really take to build circular business models — and how can technology accelerate that transformation?In this episode of HappyPorch Radio, we’re joined by Patrick Hypscher, a circular business strategist, advisor, and the voice behind Circularity.fm. Patrick brings unique insights from working at the intersection of digital innovation and the circular economy — from launching a software startup to building BlueMovement, a home appliance subscription service inside Bosch Siemens Home Appliances (BSH).We explore the vital role of technology in enabling, scaling, and adapting circular models, particularly product-as-a-service (PaaS). Patrick shares honest reflections on what worked, what didn’t, and how thoughtful use of digital tools can remove friction, support iteration, and accelerate progress.In this episode:Patrick explains why building in-house tech is often unnecessary — and even risky — for early-stage PaaS ventures.We discuss how SaaS tools, APIs, and no-code platforms offer the flexibility needed to support fast iteration and growth.Patrick explores the enabling role of IoT and remote condition monitoring in rental and performance-based models.He shares real-world examples, including cooling-as-a-service from Kaer, pay-per-part manufacturing at Trumpf, HP Instant Ink, and Hilti subscriptions.We reflect on organisational culture, channel conflict, and internal buy-in — and how to navigate these in large businesses.Finally, we explore the importance of iteration, adaptability, and learning cycles when piloting circular models.This episode offers practical insights for anyone working at the intersection of digital systems and circular design.Mentioned in this episode:BlueMovement (BSH): https://www.bluemovement.com/nl-enKaer – Cooling-as-a-Service: https://www.kaer.com/Trumpf – Pay-per-Part Manufacturing: https://www.trumpf.com/en_INT/HP Instant Ink: https://instantink.hpconnected.com/uk/en/l/v2Hilti Tool Subscriptions: https://www.hilti.co.uk/content/hilti/E1/GB/en/support/support/faqs/subscription-portal/general-subscription-portal.htmlAbout our guest:Patrick Hypscher is a circular strategist and the host of Circularity.fm, where he interviews founders and practitioners building real-world circular business models. With a background in economics, philosophy, and entrepreneurship, Patrick brings a systems-thinking lens to his work.He previously led the BlueMovement initiative at BSH, where he helped implement and grow a rental model for household appliances — a pioneering example of product-as-a-service at corporate scale.Patrick also runs an invite-only Product-as-a-Service Roundtable, connecting practitioners working on circular transitions inside organisations.Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-hypscher/Listen to Circularity.fm: https://www.circularity.fmAbout HappyPorch 🌍:HappyPorch is a purpose-driven software engineering consultancy focused on the circular economy.We believe technology plays a vital role in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges — from climate change to biodiversity loss. If you're working on circular economy solutions, we’d love to help make your journey smoother and more successful.Whether you need a dedicated product development team, access to skilled, values-aligned software engineers, or just practical guidance and insight — we’re here to support mission-led teams working toward a regenerative future.Learn more at https://www.happyporch.comSubscribe to HappyPorch Circular News 💌 :HappyPorch Circular News is our monthly newsletter for people working in and around the circular economy and technology.In the newsletter, you can:Explore the intersection of circularity and digital toolsDiscover innovative companies and inspiring individuals Be first to hear about new podcast episodes, events, and ideasEnjoy curated articles, tools, and insights — handpicked by our teamSubscribe at https://www.happyporch.com/newsletter/Explore the Circular Economy Podcasts Guide:We’ve created something new: The Circular Economy Podcasts Guide. After 9 seasons of HappyPorch Radio and years of discovering other brilliant shows on circularity, we realised the podcast space needed a central, searchable place to explore the best voices in circular innovation.The guide is curated and growing, searchable by theme, region, or keyword, and open for submissions — anyone can suggest shows or episodes to be added.Browse the guide at https://circulareconomypodcasts.guide/Listen and subscribe:Stream this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, iHeart, Pocket Casts — or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit https://www.happyporchradio.com to explore more episodes.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!In this episode our hosts Barry O’Kane and Jo Weston are joined by Yann Toutant, CEO and Co-founder of Black Winch who are the world's exclusive authority in Product-As-A-Service (PaaS) solutions. At the beginning of the conversation Yann explains Black Winch’s work and how they engage, inspire and empower intrapreneurs to achieve their PaaS ambitions by building and scaling their in-house recurring revenue models. Drawing on his experience guiding manufacturers through the transition to outcome-based services, Yann offers a deep dive into both the opportunities and the operational realities of implementing PaaS and discusses the importance of a long-term thinking strategy to make PaaS successful in any business.Yann also highlights key differences between B2B and B2C adoption of as-a-service models and talks about how technology plays a critical role in enabling these models. He outlines the importance of asset tracking, consumption data, billing complexity management, and reverse logistics—all underpinned by flexible tech stacks that evolve as the business scales. Looking ahead, Yann envisions that manufacturers will want to retain ownership of raw materials and explains how urban mining and material recovery will become strategic advantages.Tune in to learn about how new generations of data-driven leaders will continue to accelerate the shift towards PaaS and much more!This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!Our hosts are joined by Lucy Wishart, lecturer in Circular Economy and Sustainable Transformations at the University of Edinburgh. In this episode they explore how rental models fit into academic, practical, and social aspects of circularity.From the idea of “consumption work” (and how rental reduces it) to what makes circular systems messy by nature, this conversation is packed with insight.Lucy explains how rental plays a key role in circular economy frameworks like the Nine R’s and Product-Service Systems, offering an alternative to ownership-based consumption.The discussion explores both the potential and pitfalls of rental - from shifting consumption habits to labor and logistical challenges. "There’s a distinction between circularity and the circular economy. Circularity can be quite small scale and local… but the circular economy requires more than one product, more than one organisation — it’s collective. It requires us to work together."This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast!In this special episode our host Barry O’Kane is joined by Charlotte Morley, CEO of thelittleloop, and Ryan Atkins, CEO of Supercycle, to discuss the ripple effects of - ongoing and very fluid - changes to US tariffs and De Minimis import rules on the circular economy in the UK, EU, and US. The conversation, which originated from a passionate exchange on LinkedIn, explores both the opportunities and challenges these potential policy changes present for circularity-focused businesses. The discussion ranges widely from there, covering everything from policy to the importance of smaller, ethical brands to circularity.We discussed how reduced ease of importing low-cost new goods could boost demand for resale and second-hand markets, potentially benefiting the circular economy. While acknowledging the long-term benefits, our guests explained that many small ethical and sustainable brands are already overwhelmed by rising costs, market saturation from fast-fashion giants like Shein and Temu, and how, potentially, additional pressure from tariffs could undermine the "feedstock" of quality products essential for a thriving circular economy.Both guests stress the importance of empathy and support for brands navigating these tough times. They discuss how circularity enablers like their own companies must make circular business models (like takeback and resale programs) as frictionless and financially viable as possible. They also touch on the slow progress of legislation and the need for government mandates and funding to truly shift the industry toward reuse, not just recycling.The conversation concludes with a call to action for both policy involvement and practical support to ensure circularity is not just a long-term goal, but a near-term strategic advantage for businesses.Tune in to learn about how there is, despite current difficulties, a sense of cautious optimism: more brands are beginning to prioritise circularity, although slowly.This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. Our podcast focuses mostly on: Circular Economy, Digital Enablers, Technology, Software, Circular Solutions, Fashion & Textiles, Circular Strategies, Digital, Reuse, Circular Design, Circularity, Systems Thinking, Economics, Data, Platforms, Degrowth, Policy & Regulation, Collaboration, Materials, Supply Chain, Biological Cycles, Materials, Food Waste, Biomimicry, Construction, Modular Design, Culture & Language, Zero Waste, Digital Passports, Life Cycle Assessment, Recycling, Reverse Logistics, Materials, Sharing Economy, Manufacturing, Efficiency, Environmental Impact and much more!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome back to HappyPorch Radio: the circular economy technology podcast! We are back with a very exciting new season where our host Barry O’Kane will be joined by two new co-hosts, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise. Jo Weston is a brand builder helping sustainable and circular businesses. Tandi Tuakli is working in fashion and technology and also helping brands create circular business models.This season the focus is on Rental business models & Rental as an approach to circularity. A major theme will be the role of enablers — from tech platforms to logistics providers — that make rental systems viable. We will be talking to various guests and experts on the following topics:Defining Rental, leasing, and subscription-based business models in the circular economy.How Rental can range from short-term rentals to long-term product servitisation.Where are we seeing rental success? (product types, geographies, established products/sectors vs newer approaches, B2C vs B2B)Exploring tech and logistical infrastructure necessary for scaling rental businesses. What are the challenges?What are the future opportunities?And much more!Stay tuned, the first episode is coming out soon!This podcast is brought to you by HappyPorch. We specialise in technology and software development for Circular Economy minded purpose-driven businesses. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy