“Believe in your expertise”

Camilla Louise Bjerkli is the Chief Sustainability Officer at BEWI ASA and she accept to be interviewed to share her experiences in the EPS world.

Work and responsibilities

She holds a master’s degree in industrial ecology and a Ph.D. specializing in plastic use, with a focus on collection and recycling. Before joining BEWI, she spent 15 years in academia, researching waste management and recycling systems.

At BEWI, Camilla leads the company’s sustainability strategy, driving efforts to enhance circularity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She oversees climate reporting, ensuring compliance with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Additionally, she spearheads initiatives to minimize plastic pellet pollution and strengthen the company’s environmental impact reduction efforts.

Biggest challenges and achievements in her career

A big challenge was integrating sustainability into all aspects of BEWI’s operations, ensuring it becomes an inherent part of daily activities rather than a separate initiative. Encouraging a mindset shift across the organization to view sustainability as a fundamental business practice.

Successfully embedding sustainability into BEWI’s corporate strategy and reporting framework, aligning with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Implemented and integrated climate accounting practices and Science Based Targets (SBTi) to drive measurable emissions reductions and long-term sustainability goals.

A word of advice

Advocate for Change – The EPS industry faces challenges regarding recycling and environmental impact. Be a voice for innovation, pushing for improved recycling systems, and responsible production practices.

Develop a Strong Network – Connect with industry professionals, sustainability leaders, and policymakers to stay informed and collaborate on impactful projects.

Stay Resilient and Confident – The industry is traditionally male-dominated, but women bring valuable perspectives. Believe in your expertise, speak up, and take on leadership opportunities.

Embrace Continuous Learning – The industry is evolving with new policies and technologies. Stay ahead by keeping up with advancements in material science, emissions reduction, and circularity solutions.