How can creativity make climate action cool?
In this episode hosts Mirjana Arlaud and Shea Karssing sit down with Michelle Li, climate champion, keynote speaker, and founder of Clever Carbon and Women and Climate, two movements making sustainability accessible, actionable, and even fun.
Michelle shares her journey from tech sales to climate leadership, revealing how creativity and courage can transform complex topics into conversations that inspire change. Together, they explore how design, storytelling, and community can make climate awareness feel relevant and joyful — without losing the science.
Through personal stories and sharp insights, Michelle shows how women are using creativity to reshape climate communication and empower others to take action in ways that feel practical, human, and hopeful.
Episode highlights
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How Michelle turned Clever Carbon from a side project into a global education platform
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Why creativity and pop culture can make sustainability more approachable
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The “coffee menu” that’s helping people understand their carbon footprint, one cappuccino at a time
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What Women and Climate teaches us about the power of empathy and collective leadership
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How mindful living can keep changemakers grounded in the present moment
Quotes from Michelle
“At the time, sustainability content was really bland. I wanted Clever Carbon to look and feel different; to have cheekiness, design, and personality.”
“The coffee menu is literally a coffee shop menu, but instead of the price, it shows the carbon footprint of each item. It’s about meeting people where they are, not telling them what to do.”
“If people just understood a little more around the basics, they’d change their behaviours — it’s really a no-brainer.”
“A vegetarian meal, on average, is around 600 grams of CO₂. Chicken is about 1,300. Beef is around 7,700. When people see that, it’s powerful. Even one vegetarian meal a day makes a difference.”
“Women just get things done. For something they really care about, they just step up and do it.”
“As changemakers, we can get overwhelmed. From being an entrepreneur to facing the reality of the climate crisis, it can take our focus off the work. Mindfulness brings us back to the present moment.”
Resources & actions from this episode
- Explore and follow Clever Carbon
- Learn more about and follow Michelle Li
- Join Women and Climate
- Read 'You Are Here' by Thich Nhat Hanh
Reflect: What’s one everyday choice you could make to lower your carbon footprint?
