#237 Using Robotics to Transform Recycling & Building Data Moats with Hardware w/ Rebecca Hu Thrams (Glacier)

Rebecca Hu Thrams, co-founder of Glacier, is on a mission to transform recycling using AI-powered robotics and proprietary physical data to fix one of the biggest inefficiencies in waste management.

Glacier isn’t just another AI company—it’s tackling the physical world problem of waste sorting, giving recyclers and major brands unprecedented visibility into where materials actually go. By deploying intelligent sorting robots, Glacier is not only increasing efficiency but also building a defensible data moat, positioning itself as the source of truth for the circular economy.

With growing consumer demand for sustainability and new regulations like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) on the horizon, companies are scrambling for solutions. Glacier’s technology is bridging the gap between recyclers and producers—helping brands measure, track, and improve their sustainability efforts with real, actionable data.

Get the full episode today to hear:

✅ How AI and robotics are unlocking new efficiencies in recycling
✅ Why proprietary physical data is the key to an enduring AI-powered business
✅ How Glacier is helping major brands and recyclers prepare for new regulations
✅ Rebecca’s journey from reluctant founder to leading a climate-tech startup
✅ What the future of circular supply chains could look like with AI-driven insights

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📝 Show Notes:

Topics 

• 02:04 Founding Glacier
• 05:54 Understanding Glacier's Role in Recycling
• 14:12 Identifying Opportunities for Disruption in Recycling
• 18:07 The Future of Recycling Efficiency
• 22:08 Challenges in the Recycling Industry
• 23:07 Navigating Risk Aversion in Robotics Investment
• 24:43 Finding Early Adopters in the MRF Industry
• 29:07 Advancements in AI and Robotics
• 35:07 The Future of Connectivity in Recycling
• 37:30 Collaborating with Industry Giants
• 42:44 Scaling Glacier

Links

• Rebecca Hu Thrams | Glacier
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