Join your retailer community and leading experts in climate action for an 8-session accelerator, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of grocery retailers.

Dive deep into crucial climate issues facing the retail sector, including packaging, food waste, refrigerants, energy use, consumer engagement, and more. These interactive sessions will commence on May 7th and run bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 10-11:30 am PT, offering a blend of expert insights and hands-on workshops to help you tackle the challenges you face in your work. Should you miss any, don't worry—all sessions will be recorded for easy access at your convenience. This isn't your average webinar series; it's an opportunity to actively engage with the material, collaborate with peers, and work directly on solving your specific challenges. Ready to make a real impact? Join us to transform your approach to climate action in the retail space.

Our deep thanks to Dr. Bronner's and Planet FWD for supporting this work!


Session Overview

Please note that the topics scheduled for a particular date may be subject to change, depending on speaker availability.

Understanding Climate Change and Retail's Role
Date: May 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Fundamental concepts of climate change, its specific impacts on the retail industry, and the critical role retailers play in climate mitigation. Strategies for maximum emissions reduction impact in stores.

  • Melissa Elkins, Sustainability Manager, Community Food Co-op
  • Peter Cooke, Co-Founder, Ratio Institute

Sustainable Supply Chains and Ethical Procurement
Date: May 21, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Building sustainable supply chains through ethical sourcing, supplier engagement, and adherence to sustainability standards.

  • Shelley Sapsin, VP, Market Integrity at Informa Markets
  • More speakers to be announced

Refrigerants: Managing and Reducing Impact
Date: June 4, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: The environmental impact of refrigerants, effective management, reduction strategies, and transitioning to climate-friendly alternatives.

  • Speakers to be announced

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Adoption
Date: June 18, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Strategies for energy management, efficiency improvements, and the adoption of renewable energy sources in retail operations.

  • Speakers to be announced

Food Waste Reduction in Retail
Date: July 2, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Innovative strategies for food waste reduction, donation, and recycling tailored for the retail industry.

  • Speakers to be announced

Embracing Circularity in Retail Operations
Date: July 16, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Applying principles of the circular economy to retail, focusing on product lifecycle, packaging, return systems, and zero-waste initiatives.

  • Speakers to be announced

Engaging Staff, Customers, & Communities in Climate Action & Advocacy
Date: July 30, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Methods to engage consumers and communities in climate action, including through in-store initiatives, educational campaigns, and collaborative projects.

  • Dr. Bronner's
  • More speakers to be announced

Tracking Progress: Metrics, Reporting, and Communication
Date: Aug. 13, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Topics: Frameworks for measuring, tracking, and communicating sustainability efforts and outcomes, including setting and achieving targets.

  • Kayalin Akens-Irby, Head of Growth, Planet FWD
  • More speakers to be announced

Frequently asked questions

Is the Accelerator recorded, and can I access the recordings?

Yes, all sessions of the Accelerator will be recorded. This ensures that if you're unable to attend a live session, you won't miss out. You can access the recordings at your convenience, allowing you to stay up-to-date with the program.

Who will be speaking at the Accelerator sessions?

The list of speakers for the Accelerator sessions will be released at the end of March. We are gathering a diverse group of leading subject matter experts in climate action, specifically those with significant experience and insight into the grocery retail sector. Stay tuned for the announcement of our exciting lineup.

Do I need to attend all the sessions?

No, you are not required to attend all the sessions, but we would love to have you there for each one. Attending all sessions will provide you with a comprehensive understanding and the full benefit of the interactive experiences and expert insights we have planned. However, we understand that schedules can be challenging, and you will still have access to the session recordings.

What makes this Accelerator unique?

What sets this accelerator apart is its specific focus on the unique needs of grocery retailers in addressing climate action. Unlike traditional webinars, our sessions are hands-on and interactive, designed to provide ample time for you to work through the questions and challenges specific to your work in the retail sector. This approach ensures practical learning and the development of actionable strategies tailored to your business.

Will there be opportunities for networking or interacting with other participants?

Yes, one of the key benefits of this Accelerator is the opportunity to connect and network with other grocery retailers facing similar challenges in climate action. Through interactive sessions and dedicated time for collaboration, participants can share experiences, insights, and strategies, fostering a community of practice committed to sustainability in the retail industry.

Are there any reduced price seats available for the Accelerator?

Yes, we are pleased to offer reduced price seats for the Accelerator, thanks to the generous support of our partners, Dr. Bronner's and Planet FWD. These underwritten seats are intended to make the Accelerator more accessible to a wider range of participants who are committed to advancing climate action within the grocery retail sector. If you are interested in applying for a reduced price seat, please contact us for more information on eligibility and the application process.