Meet the members, in conversation with Linus Naik

Linus Naik is the Group General Manager overseeing Sustainability and Business Development for the Don’t Waste Group. Linus is an environmentalist at heart and in practice. He holds a doctorate in Chemical Engineering, which focused on technology deployment for sustainable urban development.

Linus continually volunteers his service on the boards of non-profit organisations which align with environmental conservation. He is also a Net Zero Accredited Professional with the GBCSA and specialises in Net Zero and Net Positive Waste Certifications.

1.  Where do you go for inspiration? 

Comic books. I’ve always enjoyed how the fictional stories hold a mirror up to our present reality. I think that how superheroes face adversity and tackle global crises is very much how we need to approach the next decade on the planet. The most notable quality which my favourite superhero has isn’t a superpower, it is resilience. Batman stands for immovable justice, always doing the right thing regardless of his circumstance. It is truly inspirational, and we, as humanity, will need to be resilient, and do the right thing now and in the very near future to ensure a longer future for all. 

2.  What is the best part of your work day?

Working with my team. I am fortunate to have a very highly skilled, well-trained, professional and competent group of people. It makes every meeting, task and project a pleasure when you have a solid support team who not only handle all the tasks effectively, but do it with passion and excitement because they also enjoy what they’re doing. 

3.  What is the most exciting project/aspect of your work currently?

Working with our clients on achieving Net Zero Waste. With recent changes in legislation on organic waste nationally, as well as circular economy awareness globally, Net Zero Waste is becoming increasingly important to some of our key clients and I have enjoyed guiding them on their respective journeys. 

4.  What achievement are you most proud of?

Tough one. Academically it would be completing my doctorate. Professionally, it would be joining the ExCo team of my company. 

Personally, it would be becoming a father. I know that isn’t an achievement per se, but when I see my son take his first steps, I certainly have a strong sense of achievement. 

5.  What do you think is the most urgent global environmental challenge facing us?

I know that you’re probably expecting something along the lines of climate change, but I’m going to go with education. In an ideal world, if all children are raised with principles of earth stewardship, and instilled with a philosophy of doing more good, rather than just less harm, I believe that we would all find more common ground, which would be the best foundation for us earthlings to regenerate our planet.

6.  What do you feel is the biggest issue in the green building industry that we have to overcome, and any ideas on where to start in tackling it?

In my short experience as a net zero accredited professional, I’ve noticed that while carbon (energy) and water are easy to measure (since the data comes from utility bills), there are challenges in obtaining accurate and verifiable waste data. This information is critical as the starting point for a Net Zero Waste certification. As such, I think that a reporting standard, detailing the evidence and supporting documents which are needed in the industry would be a great start to tackling it.