On April 27th, ran an exclusive social networking event for senior sustainability professionals took place, co-hosted by IAC and Emperor Agency. We aimed to create connections among industry leaders, providing a platform for sharing challenges, celebrating successes, and fostering collaboration. We had guests from all sectors including brands such as BT, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Coutts, Deloitte, Amazon, KPMG, and OVO.
We invited several speakers who shared their expertise on key sustainability topics. Their presentations provided unique, valuable insights that gave attendees an eye into different worlds of sustainability trends, strategies, and best practices in the industry.
Saif Hameed from Altruistiq delivered a thought-provoking talk titled “The Devil’s in the Data.” He emphasised that value is being rapidly generated in sustainability, and value accrues to efficient, scalable infrastructure. However, he also highlighted the critical importance of data accuracy and trustworthiness. Saif pointed out that sustainability data is only as good as the wider data points used to measure impact, and currently, there is a lack of trust in the sources and accuracy of this information. He outlined the evolution of emissions data through three stages: Audit Grade, Decision Grade, and Procurement Grade emphasising the need for reliable data to drive operational decision-making, ROI assessment, and transformative changes in operations, financing, and procurement.
Gabrielle Ginér from BT Group focused on “Tackling Supply Chain Emissions.” She highlighted BT’s commitment to sustainability by becoming the 3rd company in the world to have a 1.5-degree target validated by the science-based targets initiative. Gabrielle emphasized the importance of engaging suppliers in the journey toward emissions reduction. BT introduced a carbon reduction clause in key contracts with suppliers, ensuring that they actively work toward the 1.5-degree emissions goals. This proactive measure not only holds suppliers accountable but also demonstrates BT’s commitment to addressing Scope 3 emissions. Gabrielle shared feedback from suppliers who appreciate being asked about their targets, as it continuously motivates and aligns them with sustainability goals.
Tassilo von Hirsch presented the “Introduction to Natural Capital and Nature Risk.” He highlighted the incompatibility of the current definition of GDP with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly concerning nature-based targets. Tassilo emphasised that nature, risk, and sustainability are accounting issues that require new frameworks. He stressed the need to move away from the business-as-usual model and challenged the philosophy of infinite, continuous growth, likening it to a cancer cell.
The networking aspect of the event proved to be equally rewarding. Participants had the chance to engage with sustainability leaders and build relationships in a relaxed and informal setting.
Pamela Noakes from M&C Saatchi shared her positive experience in a review:
“Great sustainability event last week – really appreciated the opportunity to hear from a few high-caliber speakers on some key topics and then spend some time networking with other sustainability leaders. Would definitely go again.”
For sustainability professionals who missed out on this event, there’s good news: future editions are in the pipeline. The success of this only reinforced the need for continued opportunities to connect and collaborate. We know working sustainability is turbulent and the more we share advice to support each other the quicker companies can find solutions to innovate for the future.
If you would like to join a future networking event please reach out to Chris.Brooker@iac-recruit.com.