🎧 Top Podcasts on Sustainable Development to Listen to in 2025

If you’re passionate about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate action, and global cooperation, podcasts are a great way to stay informed and inspired. Whether you’re a student, professional, or policy advocate, these top podcasts on sustainable development for 2025 offer valuable insights from global experts shaping the future of people and the planet.

Below are five must-listen podcasts exploring the latest trends in sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth.

1. SDGs and Beyond: Rethinking Multilateralism for the Post-2030 Era

Featuring: Prof. Jeffrey Sachs, UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network
In this thought-provoking episode, Prof. Jeffrey Sachs discusses how global multilateral systems must evolve as we approach the 2030 SDG deadline. Expect deep insights on international cooperation, global equity, and the future of sustainable development.
🔗 Listen here

2. How to Heal a River: What the Emscher Teaches Us About Cities and Nature

Featuring: Prof. Dr. Uli Paetzel, Emschergenossenschaft / Lippeverband
Discover how one of Europe’s most polluted rivers became a model for ecological transformation. This episode explores the intersection of urban planning, water management, and environmental restoration — essential listening for anyone working in sustainable cities or climate resilience.
🔗 Listen here https://www.unsdglearn.org/podcast/how-to-heal-a-river-what-the-emscher-teaches-us-about-cities-and-nature

3. What Happens When AI Becomes Your Startup Mentor?

Featuring: Dorina Dobre-Basca & Guillaume Lamothe, ITC SME Trade Academy
Artificial Intelligence is changing the way small and medium enterprises (SMEs) grow. This episode dives into how AI-driven mentorship and trade innovation can accelerate entrepreneurship, productivity, and sustainability in developing economies.
🔗 Listen here https://www.unsdglearn.org/podcast/what-happens-when-ai-becomes-your-startup-mentor

4. Europe at a Crossroads: Can the EU Lead the World to SDG Success?

Featuring: Guillaume Lafortune, UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network
How is Europe performing on the SDGs? This episode explores the EU’s leadership role in sustainable development, touching on policy coherence, climate action, and innovation for the post-2030 agenda.
🔗 Listen here https://www.unsdglearn.org/podcast/europe-at-a-crossroads-can-the-eu-lead-the-world-to-sdg-success

5. Economies That Work—for All

Produced by: United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC)
This podcast series examines how inclusive economies can balance growth with social and environmental well-being. Each episode features experts exploring topics such as sustainable finance, green jobs, and economic transformation.
🔗 Listen here https://www.unsdglearn.org/microlearning/economies-that-work-for-all/

✨ Explore More Episodes

Looking for more expert voices on sustainability, leadership, and innovation?
🔗 Explore the full podcast series here https://www.unsdglearn.org/podcast/

🔍 Why Listen to Sustainable Development Podcasts?

Podcasts offer an engaging way to stay current with global trends, gain professional insights, and hear from the world’s leading thinkers on climate change, social justice, and the future of development. Whether you’re commuting, studying, or working, these episodes can expand your perspective on how we can build a more equitable and resilient world.