Sustainable Voices: Pernille Koppang

Welcome to our Sustainable Voices series, where we talk to inspirational climate leaders around the world about their passions and projects.

Who, What, Where?

Pernille Koppang, Sustainable & Operational manager @ASIA Aker Brygge (Restaurant).

What was your a-ha moment that made you become engaged in sustainability?

When I had my first son and realised the huge responsibility it is to decide what another human being should eat. Understanding that the food industry is far from sustainable, and that what we eat also affects our health more than I knew.

What is your single best tip for someone who wants to do more for the environment on a personal level?

Eat the food you buy. Food waste is one of the biggest challenges we have. Should be super easy to finish your food… so just start doing it.

What do you think will be the legacy of your generation?

I hope it will be that we managed to make a shift and understood the urgency of our time. But I’m not sure that will be the result.

What is the most critical technological breakthrough that needs to happen for the world to reach the 1,5 degree goal?

Maybe Carbon capture? But I don’t know enough about this, and there must be several super-genius solutions out there so something can happen fast to be able to reach the goal.

What will this breakthrough demand from us as a society?

I highly believe in working together across borders and sharing technological breakthrough will be critical to find solutions. And we need some pioneers with powerful voices to lead the way.

What is your company’s most impactful contribution to fight climate change?

I work at a restaurant where we serve around 300.000 guests each year – so I think the most impactful contribution we do is to illustrate how to make more climate friendly choices. Leading by example will hopefully inspire others to do the same.

In your industry, what do you think will be the most groundbreaking change over the next 10 years?

There are so many cool things happening in the food industry. Maybe all the food we have will be locally produced, and mostly plant based. Lab-grown meat and fish is normal, and you can transform water to wine #dreamscancometrue ;)

Which brand (in general) do you think is at the forefront when it comes to sustainability?

CHOOOSE! I belive in leading by example and demonstrating solutions, so I would also say I look up to brands like Patagonia; making a stand and not compromising.

What makes you climate positive about the future?

There are so many things that makes me climate positive about the future. But the most inspiring is all the people engaging themselves and people around them to care and do something.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don’t underestimate the impact of each individual. We all need to contribute to reach a goal.