Max Van Biene: Giving an Edge to Climate-Conscious Business

His career trajectory is not what you might expect from a sustainability leader. He started in the fast-paced world of advertising, crafting campaigns to sell electronic handsets.

"Successful campaigns, mind you," he reflects with a hint of self-awareness. "But ultimately, it wasn't fulfilling."

This growing sense of disconnect, coupled with an increasing awareness of the looming climate crisis, sparked a profound shift in his thinking. He turned his back on the allure of advertising, instead pursuing a Masters in Sustainability in the UK. This eventually led him to Edge Impact, where, for the past seven years, he's been guiding businesses through the complexities of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues.

More Than Strategy and Science

Edge Impact stands out in the crowded field of sustainability consultancies. They go beyond simply delivering data and technical solutions; they work closely with organisations to embed sustainability into the very core of their strategy and operations.

"We realised early on that science and strategy alone weren't enough," Max explains. "You need to bring people along on the journey, and that requires compelling storytelling."

This means crafting narratives that resonate with audiences on an emotional level—showcasing the tangible human impact of sustainable practices and inspiring genuine, lasting transformation. This holistic approach is evident in the diverse makeup of Edge Impact's team. Alongside the expected LCA specialists and decarbonisation experts, you'll find seasoned communication strategists and creative designers.

"Our team is incredible," Max enthuses. "They're passionate, dedicated and always up for a challenge."

This breadth of expertise allows Edge Impact to tackle a wide range of issues—from developing innovative circular economy solutions for fast-food chains grappling with waste reduction, to helping aged care providers reduce their environmental footprint, and guiding construction companies towards more sustainable building practices.

"The variety keeps things interesting," he adds, "and allows us to make a real difference across a wide range of sectors."

The Greenhouse Effect: Cultivating Collaboration and Community

Edge Impact's commitment to community engagement isn't confined to their client work. They've been a Greenhouse member since its early days, drawn to the collaborative spirit and the shared pursuit of a sustainable future.

"Greenhouse is more than just a workspace," Max enthuses. "It's a dynamic ecosystem of changemakers, a place where ideas are exchanged and partnerships are forged. You can feel the energy."

He recounts how a chance encounter at Greenhouse sparked a unique partnership with UNSW, culminating in a thought-provoking exhibition exploring the impacts of climate change.

"It was a fantastic way to engage the community and spark conversations around sustainability," he reflects. "And it wouldn't have happened without the connections we made at Greenhouse."

Max is particularly enthusiastic about the spontaneous nature of interaction and collaboration fostered at Greenhouse. "Whether it's a quick chat over coffee with someone from a tech startup or a brainstorming session with a VC firm, you're constantly bumping into people with different perspectives," he shares. This cross-pollination of ideas, he believes, is essential for driving innovation and accelerating progress towards a more sustainable future.

Empowering Others, Embracing the Future

Looking ahead, Max's vision for Edge Impact is clear: to empower organisations to become self-sufficient in their sustainability journeys.

"We want to equip our clients with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle ESG challenges head-on," he explains. He envisions a future where every organisation has the internal capacity to drive its own sustainability agenda, reducing reliance on external consultants. "Ultimately, our goal is to make ourselves redundant!"

This commitment to client empowerment is evident in Edge Impact's focus on knowledge sharing. They conduct workshops, develop comprehensive training programs, and provide ongoing support to help organisations embed sustainability into their DNA.

"We're not just about providing solutions," Max emphasises. "We're about building capability." He sees this approach as essential for creating a lasting impact, ensuring that sustainability becomes an integral part of every organisation's culture and operations. Despite the scale and urgency of the climate crisis, Max remains optimistic.

"We're in the decade of action," he acknowledges, "and the stakes are high. But I refuse to give in to despair."

He envisions a future where businesses actively contribute to a healthier planet—a future where his own retirement involves "frolicking in the forest" and tending to his "curbside farm." Greenhouse also partnered with Edge Impact to create “The Art of Climate Change”, a student-led art installation of over 50 climate posters.

Inspired by Max's journey and Edge Impact's innovative approach to sustainability?
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