Scaling Sustainability in a Changing Global Economy
Geopolitical tensions, shifting trade flows, industrial competition and economic pressures are reshaping global supply chains and the economics of sustainability. Drawing on McKinsey’s global research and market insights, Jonas Oxgaard will explore what these developments mean for circularity, decarbonization and the transition to more sustainable materials and technologies. The session will examine the balance between […]
Private Brands, Public Impact: How Retailers Can Lead on EPR
In a time of consumer burnout, fear, and apathy, research shows that simple, bold messages are needed to break through to consumers and build trust. Business is trusted to act where others aren’t, and retailers are well positioned to lead. With direct consumer relationships and control over private brand supply chains, retailers have the tools […]
Plastics Update: What’s Ahead
Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Plastics Regulatory Affairs Division will share the latest federal updates on plastics, packaging and circularity, including current regulatory priorities, policy development and areas of ongoing stakeholder engagement. This session will provide participants with a clearer understanding of where federal work is headed, how it may affect producers, retailers and packaging […]
From Sustainability Ambition to Action: Navigating the Path Forward
Sponsored by Retailers are navigating growing sustainability expectations alongside evolving regulations, reporting requirements and resource constraints. In this five-minute spotlight, WM will share how organizations can use data, insights and operational expertise to identify opportunities, prioritize initiatives and turn sustainability goals into practical, measurable results. Attendees will gain insight into approaches that can help strengthen […]
Advancing Cross-Canada Alignment in EPR
Rising EPR costs and operational complexity remain a persistent thorn in the side of retailers and manufacturers. Our expert panel will discuss potential solutions to improve alignment between provincial and territorial EPR systems.
Advancing Sustainable Packaging and Hygiene Solutions
Sponsored by This session will highlight how eco-design principles, including packaging reduction and increased recycled content, are integrated into product development. Through concrete examples, from recycled fibre tissue products and packaging to trays and food service solutions, we will demonstrate how innovation and sustainability go hand in hand to support our customers’ ESG ambitions.
From Checkout to Canopy: Turning Everyday Retail Moments into Climate Action
Sponsored by Every customer transaction is an untapped opportunity for measurable climate action, yet most retailers still treat sustainability as a reporting obligation rather than a growth lever. In this spotlight, Cool Climate Club shares how its Smart Forests™ platform lets retailers embed traceable tree planting into the customer moments that matter most, turning everyday […]
Three Trends to Watch: What Forward Thinking Retailers Need to Know About EPR
Adrian Vannahme, Chief Operating Officer, Reclay StewardEdge As extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations accelerate worldwide, Canadian retailers face mounting complexity at home and abroad. Adrian Vanaham, COO of the Canadian division of Reclay StewardEdge, highlights the rising cost of getting compliance right, the patchwork pace of regulatory alignment, and the practical tools that may finally make it […]
Why Nature is a Business Imperative
Lauren Adey, Vice President, Marketing & Retail, Cool Climate Club 75% of gen Z’s are worried about the future and suffer from climate anxiety and 63% of retailers said that sustainability initiatives helped boost revenues. A sustainability strategy is no longer optional for retailers, it’s an expectation from customers, who are increasingly shopping with their […]
Advancing Producer-Led Recycling: Circular Materials’ Strategic Vision
Allen Langdon, CEO, Circular Materials As extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs for packaging and paper continue to advance across Canada, the need for cost-efficiency, harmonization and innovation in recycling systems is evident. As a national, not-for-profit producer responsibility organization operating across several provinces, Circular Materials manages the collection of over 1 million tonnes of packaging […]