144: Waste As A Building Resource with Frank Cato Lahti
In this episode, we talk to Frank Cato Lahti. He is the founder of Othalo. A company that has developed a patented system that use recycled plastic waste for construction materials to build affordable housing on an industrial scale. Born and raised in Vardø, an island in the middle of the Barents sea with the worlds richest fishing fields surrounding this little island. With a background in housebuilding as well as an officer in the army he saw a link between the world’s plastic pollution and the worlds need for affordable housing as a solution to each of these global problems. His believe have we all have an obligation to not hurt the planet and protect it for future generation as well as his believe that all is connected and that we all are as one, was the starting point for Othalo.
During this episode, we talked about the importance of housing and how his company is changing plastic from waste to a resource. We also looked at the importance of lifting up women and how that has a positive ripple effect in the communities they are working with.
Links from the episodes
Episode 036: Top Tip Thursday, Black Friday
Episode 011: Executive Director of Surge with Marita Peters
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Where can people find Othalo?
KEY TAKE AWAY
“It’s making this not a problem, but a resource.”
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.