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The North American Sustainability and Responsibility Summit

March 12-14, 2025 | Denver, CO

Hosted by Executive Platforms and the ESG & CSR Board

Meeting Agenda

March 12th

3:30 pm - 4:15 pm WELCOME DAY SPECIAL CONTENT

Panel: Building a Sustainable Future: Innovations and Best Practices for ESG Leaders in 2025 and Beyond!

Melanie Chow Li

Vice President, Mission & Sustainability

Danone

Brad Lich

Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer

Eastman

Josh Raglin

Chief Sustainability Officer

Norfolk Southern Corporation

Peter Votruba-Drzal

Vice President Global Sustainability

PPG

George A. Moubayed

SVP, Chief Sustainability & Strategy Officer

Caterpillar

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Discussing how companies are adopting circular economy models to minimize waste, maximize resource efficiency, and promote product lifecycle sustainability
  • Explore strategies and technologies businesses are using to achieve carbon neutrality, including renewable energy investments, carbon offset projects, and energy efficiency improvements
  • Sharing best practices in creating sustainable supply chains, from ethical sourcing and reducing environmental impact to enhancing transparency and collaboration with suppliers
  • Examine the latest advancements in sustainable packaging solutions, focusing on reducing plastic waste, using biodegradable materials, and designing for recyclability
  • Understand the importance of corporate social responsibility and how businesses are engaging with local communities to drive social and environmental change, including education and outreach programs
4:20 pm - 5:10 pm PANEL

Strategies for Effective Climate Leadership

Ann Tracy

Chief Sustainability Officer

Colgate-Palmolive

Emilio Tenuta

SVP, Chief Sustainability Officer

Ecolab

Stewart Lindsay

Chief Sustainability Officer

The Campbell’s Company

Fernando Castellanos

Head of Environment and Climate Programming

United Nations Global Compact

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Moving from the ‘what’ to the ‘how’ with decarbonization goals
  • Discussing steps to make net-zero happen across all industries and sectors
  • Sharing strategies for engaging leadership and building a net-zero culture
  • How to align your sustainability strategies with the core business purpose
  • Outlining the power of collaboration and leveraging partnerships to drive ESG goals
5:15 pm - 5:50 pm WELCOME DAY SPECIAL CONTENT

Beyond Compliance: Harmonizing P roliferating Reporting Requirements

Nicole Peerless

Head of Business Engagement

Pulsora

Holly McHugh

VP Sustainability & Social Impact

Mejuri

Session Details Arrow Icon

Organizations face an unprecedented surge in disclosure demands from every direction. Whether it’s

responding to new government regulations or completing supplier scorecards, businesses must navigate an

intricate web of overlapping frameworks—each with unique metrics and timelines.

This session explores practical strategies for navigating this evolving landscape of standards and stakeholder

demands while optimizing limited resources. Learn how leading companies are identifying interoperability

between standards, streamlining their reporting processes, and leveraging tools and systems to reduce

duplication. Join us to discover actionable approaches for transforming a fragmented reporting landscape into

a cohesive, ecient program that delivers value beyond mere compliance.

6:00 pm
6:30 pm

executive dinner

Brought To You By

March 13th

Stream 1 Chair

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

7:30 am - 8:15 am
8:15 am - 8:20 am

Opening Remarks and Important Announcements

8:20 am - 8:30 am

Chair’s Welcome Address

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

8:30 am - 9:05 am KEYNOTE

Driving Sustainable Retail

Jerome Del Porto

Head of Corporate Sustainability

Walmart

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Learning about Walmart’s initiatives to source products responsibly, including sustainable agriculture, seafood, and forest products
  • Unveiling Walmart’s efforts to divert 100% of its waste from landfills in key markets by 2025 through recycling, reusing, and donating unsold goods
  • Understanding Walmart’s science-based targets to reduce emissions in its operations and supply chain, aiming for a zero-emission future
  • Discovering how Walmart collaborates with communities, suppliers, and other stakeholders to drive sustainability practices and promote environmental stewardship
9:05 am - 9:40 am KEYNOTE

How AI and Accelerated Computing Are Driving Energy Efficiency

Josh Parker

Head of Sustainability

NVIDIA

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Discover how NVIDIA’s twin engines, AI and accelerated computing, are revolutionizing energy efficiency across industries
  • Learning from case studies showcasing significant reductions in energy consumption and processing times
  • Understanding how transitioning from CPU-only operations to GPU-accelerated systems can save over 40 terawatt-hours of energy annually
  • Exploring diverse applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and research, including digital twins and AI-powered drug discovery, enhancing both efficiency and sustainability
  • Hear about NVIDIA’s initiatives like Earth-2 for climate science, liquid-cooling technology for data centers, and continuous advancements in GPU energy efficiency
9:45 am - 10:20 am Workshops
Stream One

How CSOs Can Drive Impact Amid Political Uncertainty

Mandi McReynolds

Chief Sustainability Officer

Workiva

Suzanne Hilker

Director, ESG Reporting & Operations

PayPal

Session Details Arrow Icon
Join Mandi McReynolds, Chief Sustainability Officer at Workiva, as she moderates a high-energy panel with top sustainability executives. In this compelling session, leaders will dive into the evolving role of the CSO in navigating today’s political and economic uncertainty, while remaining bullish on growth and impact. They’ll explore how sustainability data and innovation can not only safeguard business risks but also unlock business value—creating lasting impact.
Objectives and Discussion:
  • Regardless of who’s in power around the world, how to lead through sustainable growth strategies.
  • Building Value beyond Compliance: How CSOs can foster a culture of resilience, aligning sustainability goals with short and long-term business objectives, while engaging stakeholders and influencing change
  • Innovation as a Growth Catalyst: Leveraging new technologies to AI for creative solutions to drive both business impact and environmental responsibility.
Get ready for a forward-thinking conversation packed with real-world strategies, innovation, and insights from the front lines of sustainability leadership!
Stream Two

Transforming Sustainability Disclosures: Unlocking Efficiency with Next-Gen AI

Amanda Petzinger

VP, Sustainability, Stewardship, Supply Chain & ESG Solutions

Benchmark Gensuite

Sally Van Cleve

Leader, Sustainability & ESG Digital Solutions

Benchmark Gensuite

Session Details Arrow Icon

In today’s business landscape, organizations are facing an increasing number of sustainability disclosure requests from various stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and the public. Responding to these requests in a timely, accurate, and compliant manner can be a significant challenge. This session will explore how next-generation Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to revolutionize the sustainability disclosure response process. Attendees will learn about the latest AI-powered solutions that can automate data collection, analysis, and report generation, enabling organizations to streamline their sustainability disclosure workflows, improve transparency, and enhance their environmental, social, and governance reporting. This session will equip participants with the knowledge and tools to harness the power of AI and transform their sustainability disclosure practices.

Stream Three

From Greenwashing to Green Leading: How Traceability Secures Sustainability

Florent Bouguin

Chief Technology Officer, Executive VP

OPTEL Group

Session Details Arrow Icon

Sustainability is essential due to increasing regulations and consumer demands. This session presents a real-world case study demonstrating how traceability enabled compliance and provided a competitive advantage. Learn how a company improved supply chain visibility, reduced carbon emissions, and lowered costs through enhanced transparency.

10:25 am - 12:05 pm Pre-Arranged One-To-One Meetings Arrow Icon

These mutually agreed-upon conversations are arranged and facilitated by Executive Platforms staff to ensure attendees have valuable discussions about their top-of-mind questions, challenges, and opportunities.

10:30 am – 10:50 am: Meeting Slot 1/Networking

10:55 am – 11:15 am: Meeting Slot 2/Networking

11:20 am – 11:40 am: Meeting Slot 3/Networking

11:45 am – 12:05 pm: Meeting Slot 4/Networking

12:10 pm - 12:45 pm Case Studies
Stream One - Responsible Business Practices

Visualizing Aviation’s Path to Net Zero

Brian Moran

Chief Sustainability Officer

Boeing

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Discover the Boeing Cascade Climate Impact Model, a data modeling and visualization tool that evaluates effective strategies to cut aviation emissions
  • See how Boeing is utilizing the tool to deliver holistic, data-driven solutions for customers and stakeholders in pursuit of net zero
  • Dive into examples of how Boeing develops technologies that will contribute to the industry’s ambitious climate change commitments
  • Learn how Boeing is convening key players from the aviation, energy, policy, and finance sectors to help decarbonize aerospace together
Stream Two - Social Leadership

Leveraging Compliance Competencies to Drive Sustainability Progress

Page Motes

Chief Compliance & Sustainability Officer

Hertz

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Sustainability continues to become more and more regulated, and programs need more diverse skills and competencies
  • Compliance practitioners have been deep in the “G” and often “S” (of ESG) for many years – way before the acronym
  • What can sustainability officers and practitioners learn, and even leverage, from compliance professionals and their unique skills?
  • Firsthand Experience on how Page is leveraging the competencies of her combined organization to help advance the sustainability agenda
  • What other sustainability officers may want to consider given their own unique reporting structure and organizational makeup
Stream Three - Environmental Sustainability

Net Zero & The Path to Energy Goals

Roger Martella

Chief Corporate Officer, Head of Global Government Affairs and Policy, and Chief Sustainability Officer

GE Vernova

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Exploring innovative technologies and strategies that can help accelerate the deployment of renewable energy sources and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in achieving net-zero emissions
  • Discussing some of the biggest barriers that industries face in achieving their net-zero energy goals, and exploring how they can be effectively overcome
  • Taking a deep dive into the role energy conservation and energy efficiency play, and how can individuals and businesses be incentivized to adopt these practices
  • Taking a look ahead at what opportunities exist for job creation and economic growth in the renewable energy sector, and how can we ensure a just transition for workers in fossil fuel industries?
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm THEMED LUNCH DISCUSSIONS

Explore this year’s themed lunch discussions led by industry leaders, where executives engage in focused conversations over a meal, discussing topics they’re passionate about alongside their peers.

Managing and Operationalizing Global Sustainability Commitments in an Ever-Changing Regulatory Environment

How to Reduce Emissions & De-Fossilize Now with Integrity

The Role of Empowering Communities and Reducing Wealth Gaps Through Sustainable Development

Why Integrating Climate Risk Into Your Sustainability Strategy Can No Longer be Overlooked

How CPGs Can Integrate Sustainability into Their Governance Structures to Drive Impact

Empowering CSOs to Elevate Their Role with the CEO & Board of Directors

How to Encourage Societal and Behavioural Change to Support Sustainable Solutions?

ESG Governance: Mastering the Art of Board Engagement for Sustainable Leadership

Engagement Through Purpose: Strategies to Align Employee Values with Corporate Sustainability

Why Engaging Cross-Functional Teams in the ESG Roadmap Development Process is Crucial

Energy and Sustainability Project Financing 101

Climate and Nature Nexus: How to Optimize Business Value from a Dual Approach to Sustainability

Redesigning for Sustainability: Product Strategies with Circularity in Mind

Accelerating Industrial Decarbonization: Strategies for Immediate Impact

1:45 pm - 2:20 pm KEYNOTE

Flavoring the Future Sustainably

Michael Okoroafor

Chief Sustainability Officer

McCormick & Company

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Sourcing ingredients responsibly by partnering with farmers and suppliers to ensure sustainable and ethical practices
  • Exploring McCormick’s latest advancements in sustainable packaging solutions, including materials sourcing and design innovations aimed at reducing environmental impact
  • Learning about comprehensive strategies to lower carbon emissions throughout operations, from production to distribution
  • Increasing the use of renewable energy sources to power facilities and reducing reliance on fossil fuels
2:25 pm - 3:00 pm Workshops
Stream One

Sustainable Innovation

Manoj Mathew

Global Practice Leader - Sustainability Engineering

Cognizant

Session Details Arrow Icon
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly acting as a powerful tool to drive greener practices across various industries and sectors — from energy management to waste reduction and sustainable agriculture.
Manoj will share his experiences and describe how Cognizant is leveraging Artificial intelligence (AI) to contribute to sustainable innovation by enabling companies to optimize operations, reduce waste, predict environmental changes, and develop new products and services that are more environmentally friendly.
Stream Two

How Investing in High-Quality Sustainability Data and Reporting Now Can Drive Financial Value

Patrick Obeid

CEO

Tracera

Sam Israelit

Advisory Partner and Chief Sustainability Officer

Bain & Company

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Learning how to evaluate and select suppliers based on their sustainability practices, ensuring alignment with your business’s environmental goals
  • Exploring strategies to minimize carbon emissions across your supply chain, including transportation optimization and sustainable logistics solutions
  • Discovering best practices for ethical sourcing and procurement, focusing on fair trade, responsible sourcing, and minimizing environmental impact
  • Understanding the importance of transparency in your supply chain, using tools and technologies to track and report on sustainability metrics
Stream Three

A Joint Approach to Decarbonization: Linking Product Life Cycle Assessment and Corporate GHG Accounting

Naved Siddique

Chief Product Officer

Sphera

Courtney Eastman

Director, Global Sustainability & Decarbonization

Eastman

Session Details Arrow Icon

Despite the increasing number of decarbonization and net-zero commitments, and regulatory requirements for climate disclosure, many organizations struggle to deliver on their emission reduction targets. Often, this shortfall is due to siloed corporate and product decarbonization efforts. Corporate GHG accounting gives a broader view of emissions but may cause sustainability leaders to miss specific opportunities for decarbonization lying upstream and downstream in the value chain—the scope 3 impacts.

Adding product sustainability initiatives like product carbon footprint (PCF) calculations and life cycle assessment (LCA) as a core element of corporate decarbonization efforts can bridge this gap and create synergies to drive measurable emissions reductions across the corporate value chain and products’ life cycles.

Join this session to learn how you can:

  • Eliminate guesswork, offering insights into emissions hotspots across the products’ life cycles.
  • Provide a more accurate and comprehensive view of Scope 3 emissions.
  • Establish a consistent data foundation for accurate corporate and product carbon accounting and reporting while aligning the entire organization toward a unified decarbonization goal.
  • Avoid environmental burden shifting and prepare for compliance with regulations that address broader sustainability issues such as biodiversity or the circular economy.
3:05 pm - 4:15 pm Pre-Arranged One-To-One Meetings Arrow Icon

These mutually agreed-upon conversations are arranged and facilitated by Executive Platforms staff to ensure attendees have valuable discussions about their top-of-mind questions, challenges, and opportunities.

3:05 pm – 3:25 pm: Meeting Slot 5/Networking

3:30 pm – 3:50 pm: Meeting Slot 6/Networking

3:55 pm – 4:15 pm: Meeting Slot 7/Networking

4:20 pm - 4:55 pm KEYNOTE

The Next Billion Sustainable Choices: How Payments Can Power the Circular Economy

Ellen Jackowski

Executive Vice President, Chief Sustainability Officer

Mastercard

Session Details Arrow Icon

As the urgency for sustainable consumption grows, businesses and consumers need both incentives and seamless solutions to make circular choices the default. This keynote explores how payments technology can enable more sustainable business models, from product-as-a-service to resale and repair ecosystems, while also informing and inspiring consumers to make lower-impact decisions. By embedding sustainability into everyday transactions, we unlock new value creation opportunities and accelerate the transition to a more circular, regenerative economy

4:55 pm - 5:30 pm KEYNOTE

Leaders Who Champion Sustainability

Paulette Frank

Chief Sustainability Officer

Johnson & Johnson

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Leading by example to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices in their own behavior and decision-making, inspiring others to follow suit
  • Articulating a compelling vision and develop a clear strategy for integrating sustainability into the core values and operations of an organization
  • Setting ambitious goals and providing a roadmap for achieving them
  • Recognizing the need for change and navigate the complexities of transitioning toward sustainable practices
5:30 pm - 5:35 pm

Chair’s Closing Remarks

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

5:35 pm
6:00 pm
6:30 pm

March 14th

7:30 am - 8:25 am
7:45 am - 8:20 am breakfast workshops
8:25 am - 8:35 am

Chair's Welcome Address

8:35 am - 9:10 am KEYNOTE

Building on Our Past to Reach a Better, More Impactful Future

Dirk Voeste

Chief Sustainability Officer

Volkswagen Group

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Exploring how Volkswagen is making ESG performance a fundamental part of everything it does
  • Understanding the scale of both the challenge and the opportunity: Volkswagen’s operations and products account for 1% of global CO2 emissions. What would orienting a million employees across a global footprint towards sustainability look like, and what would it achieve?
  • Showcasing the plan to decarbonize a global enterprise and build products that will function well in the circular economy of the future
  • Where are we now, and where are we going? How are we going to get there, and when? What do we need along the way, and how can we share our experience and lessons learned with other businesses throughout our journey?
9:10 am - 9:45 am KEYNOTE

Embracing Circular Innovation

Jen Huffstetler

Chief Sustainability Officer

HP Inc

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Showcasing HP’s advancements in closed-loop recycling systems for plastics and other materials used in its products
  • Learning about HP’s product design strategies that facilitate easy disassembly and material recovery at end-of-life
  • Discovering how HP is extending product lifecycles through remanufacturing programs, reducing waste and resource consumption
  • Promoting circularity within the supply chain, including partnerships with suppliers committed to sustainable practices
9:50 am - 10:25 am Case Studies
STREAM 1 CASE STUDY

Innovative Approaches to Resiliency and Circularity

James Gowen

Chief Sustainability Officer/ Senior Vice President Global Supply Chain & Sourcing

Verizon

Session Details Arrow Icon

James Gowen, who has served as Verizon’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Supply Chain since 2009, shares his insights on integrating sustainability into global supply chain operations. Under his leadership, Verizon has made strides in reducing its environmental footprint while transforming its supply chain to align with ambitious sustainability goals. In this session, James will outline how to set actionable goals, measure progress, and drive meaningful change.

  • Taking a holistic and forward-looking perspective to ensure that our current practices are sustainable
  • Discussing the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind,
  • Demonstrating the potential for creative solutions to address sustainability challenges and pave the way for a more resilient future
  • Offering solutions in the development of sustainable alternatives to traditional materials
STREAM 2 CASE STUDY

Transforming the Beverage Industry for a More Sustainable Future

Kurt Ritter

Vice President & GM Sustainability North America

Coca-Cola

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Highlighting advancements in lightweighting and sustainable packaging designs to reduce plastic usage and environmental impact
  • Discover Coca-Cola’s efforts to replenish water sources used in its beverages through community water projects and conservation initiatives
  • Understand how Coca-Cola collaborates with stakeholders and NGOs to promote sustainable water management practices and reduce water footprint
STREAM 3 CASE STUDY

Innovating for a Sustainable Future

Scott Collick

Vice President, Sustainability

DuPont

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Explore DuPont’s commitment to creating innovative, sustainable materials and products that minimize environmental impact and enhance performance
  • Learn about DuPont’s efforts to implement circular economy principles by designing products for recyclability and promoting resource efficiency across the lifecycle
  • Discover how DuPont is reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency within its operations to meet ambitious climate goals
  • Understand DuPont’s initiatives to manage water resources responsibly, including reducing water usage and improving water quality in communities where it operates
10:25 am - 11:15 am Pre-Arranged One-To-One Meetings Arrow Icon

Pre-Arranged One-to-One Meetings

These mutually agreed-upon conversations are arranged and facilitated by Executive Platforms staff to ensure attendees have valuable discussions about their top-of-mind questions, challenges, and opportunities.

10:30 am – 10:50 am: Meeting Slot 8/Networking

10:55 am – 11:15 am: Meeting Slot 9/Networking

10:25 am - 11:15 am FOCUS GROUP

Executive focus groups are informal moderated discussions among peers, held during networking breaks outside the summit agenda. No sign-up is required; delegates and speakers can join any group of interest.

TOPIC one

From Ambition to Action: A Company Case Study in Driving Sustainable Outcomes

Allyson Anderson Book

Chief Sustainability Officer

Baker Hughes Company

11:20 am - 11:55 am Workshops
Stream One

Building Resilient Supply Chains: Innovating for Sustainability and Business Growth

Sarah Moasser

Sustainability Solution Consultant

EcoVadis

Session Details Arrow Icon

Is your supply chain resilient enough to withstand global disruptions? Can sustainability drive both innovation and cost optimization?

In today’s evolving risk landscape, businesses must manage disruptions while driving growth. This session will explore:

  • A proactive, data-driven formula for managing supply chain risks
  • The role of new technology in radically expanding visibility across suppliers
  • Right-sizing supplier engagement techniques based on profile and risk level
  • Proven strategies for performance improvement and long-term sustainability success
Stream Two

Carbon Credits: The Next Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?

Todd Krause

Chief Revenue Officer

Climate Impact Partners Limited

Session Details Arrow Icon

This workshop will provide insights into how companies can approach carbon credit purchases strategically, meeting their long-term sustainability goals and supporting the development of impactful projects with incredible stories to tell. During this workshop:

  • Explore the potential of long-term offtake agreements for carbon credits and how to structure this like a PPA
  • Discover how to manage price risk and ensure a stable supply of high-quality credits.
  • Gain insights from real-world case studies and expert discussions

Join the conversation and shape the future of carbon markets.

12:00 pm - 12:35 pm KEYNOTE

Advancing Healthcare with Sustainability

Raman Venkatesh

Chief Sustainability Officer

Medtronic

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Learn about Medtronic’s commitment to designing medical devices and technologies that minimize environmental impact through sustainable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing
  • Exploring strategies to achieve its ambitious carbon reduction targets, including renewable energy adoption and operational efficiency improvements
  • Offering initiatives to minimize waste through innovative packaging designs that prioritize recyclability and reduce resource consumption
  • Discussing efforts to improve energy efficiency within facilities and increase the use of renewable energy sources
12:35 pm - 1:35 pm THEMED LUNCH DISCUSSIONS

Explore this year’s themed lunch discussions led by industry leaders, where executives engage in focused conversations over a meal, discussing topics they’re passionate about alongside their peers.

Unlocking the Power of Net Zero: Transforming Sustainability Goals into Key Business Drivers

Mastering Sustainable Storytelling Across Your Brand

From Waste to Wheels: How Renewable Natural Gas is Transforming Transportation Emissions

Climate on the Edge: Turning Risk into Opportunity through Adaptation and Mitigation

Low Carbon Solutions in Transportation – Evaluating Life-Cycle Carbon Impact and Economics of Leading Strategies

How to Get Your Entire Organization to C.A.A.R.E. About Sustainability?

Futureproofing Organizations and Preparing the Workforce for Sustainability

Decarbonizing Your Grid: The Role of Sustainability in Sourcing Electricity for Business

1:35 pm - 2:10 pm KEYNOTE

Promoting Growth Through Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships

Gayle Schueller

Senior Vice President & Chief Sustainability Officer

3M

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Embracing innovation to create sustainable solutions to support building resilience in infrastructure and communities
  • Raising awareness and promoting education about the importance of sustainable practices
  • Achieving long-term sustainability by collaborating among various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals
  • Promoting active involvement of communities and the development of their capacity to respond to climate change impacts
2:15 pm - 2:50 pm KEYNOTE

Pioneering Low Carbon Solutions

Matt Kolesar

Chief Environmental Scientist

ExxonMobil

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • ExxonMobil’s view of energy demand and supply dynamics through 2050
  • ExxonMobil’s resolve to drive meaningful change, the results were already delivering, and our plans under a wide range of future scenarios
  • Addressing climate change challenges through partnerships with governments, academia, and industry stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of low carbon solutions
2:50 pm - 3:00 pm

Chair’s Closing Remarks

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors



March 12th

3:30 pm - 4:15 pm WELCOME DAY SPECIAL CONTENT

Panel: Building a Sustainable Future: Innovations and Best Practices for ESG Leaders in 2025 and Beyond!

Melanie Chow Li

Vice President, Mission & Sustainability

Danone

Brad Lich

Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer

Eastman

Josh Raglin

Chief Sustainability Officer

Norfolk Southern Corporation

Peter Votruba-Drzal

Vice President Global Sustainability

PPG

George A. Moubayed

SVP, Chief Sustainability & Strategy Officer

Caterpillar

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Discussing how companies are adopting circular economy models to minimize waste, maximize resource efficiency, and promote product lifecycle sustainability
  • Explore strategies and technologies businesses are using to achieve carbon neutrality, including renewable energy investments, carbon offset projects, and energy efficiency improvements
  • Sharing best practices in creating sustainable supply chains, from ethical sourcing and reducing environmental impact to enhancing transparency and collaboration with suppliers
  • Examine the latest advancements in sustainable packaging solutions, focusing on reducing plastic waste, using biodegradable materials, and designing for recyclability
  • Understand the importance of corporate social responsibility and how businesses are engaging with local communities to drive social and environmental change, including education and outreach programs
4:20 pm - 5:10 pm PANEL

Strategies for Effective Climate Leadership

Ann Tracy

Chief Sustainability Officer

Colgate-Palmolive

Emilio Tenuta

SVP, Chief Sustainability Officer

Ecolab

Stewart Lindsay

Chief Sustainability Officer

The Campbell’s Company

Fernando Castellanos

Head of Environment and Climate Programming

United Nations Global Compact

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Moving from the ‘what’ to the ‘how’ with decarbonization goals
  • Discussing steps to make net-zero happen across all industries and sectors
  • Sharing strategies for engaging leadership and building a net-zero culture
  • How to align your sustainability strategies with the core business purpose
  • Outlining the power of collaboration and leveraging partnerships to drive ESG goals
5:15 pm - 5:50 pm WELCOME DAY SPECIAL CONTENT

Beyond Compliance: Harmonizing P roliferating Reporting Requirements

Nicole Peerless

Head of Business Engagement

Pulsora

Holly McHugh

VP Sustainability & Social Impact

Mejuri

Session Details Arrow Icon

Organizations face an unprecedented surge in disclosure demands from every direction. Whether it’s

responding to new government regulations or completing supplier scorecards, businesses must navigate an

intricate web of overlapping frameworks—each with unique metrics and timelines.

This session explores practical strategies for navigating this evolving landscape of standards and stakeholder

demands while optimizing limited resources. Learn how leading companies are identifying interoperability

between standards, streamlining their reporting processes, and leveraging tools and systems to reduce

duplication. Join us to discover actionable approaches for transforming a fragmented reporting landscape into

a cohesive, ecient program that delivers value beyond mere compliance.

6:00 pm
6:30 pm

executive dinner

Brought To You By

March 13th

Stream 1 Chair

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

7:30 am - 8:15 am
8:15 am - 8:20 am

Opening Remarks and Important Announcements

8:20 am - 8:30 am

Chair’s Welcome Address

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

8:30 am - 9:05 am KEYNOTE

Driving Sustainable Retail

Jerome Del Porto

Head of Corporate Sustainability

Walmart

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Learning about Walmart’s initiatives to source products responsibly, including sustainable agriculture, seafood, and forest products
  • Unveiling Walmart’s efforts to divert 100% of its waste from landfills in key markets by 2025 through recycling, reusing, and donating unsold goods
  • Understanding Walmart’s science-based targets to reduce emissions in its operations and supply chain, aiming for a zero-emission future
  • Discovering how Walmart collaborates with communities, suppliers, and other stakeholders to drive sustainability practices and promote environmental stewardship
9:05 am - 9:40 am KEYNOTE

How AI and Accelerated Computing Are Driving Energy Efficiency

Josh Parker

Head of Sustainability

NVIDIA

Session Details Arrow Icon
  • Discover how NVIDIA’s twin engines, AI and accelerated computing, are revolutionizing energy efficiency across industries
  • Learning from case studies showcasing significant reductions in energy consumption and processing times
  • Understanding how transitioning from CPU-only operations to GPU-accelerated systems can save over 40 terawatt-hours of energy annually
  • Exploring diverse applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and research, including digital twins and AI-powered drug discovery, enhancing both efficiency and sustainability
  • Hear about NVIDIA’s initiatives like Earth-2 for climate science, liquid-cooling technology for data centers, and continuous advancements in GPU energy efficiency
9:45 am - 10:20 am Workshops
Stream One

How CSOs Can Drive Impact Amid Political Uncertainty

Mandi McReynolds

Chief Sustainability Officer

Workiva

Suzanne Hilker

Director, ESG Reporting & Operations

PayPal

Session Details Arrow Icon
Join Mandi McReynolds, Chief Sustainability Officer at Workiva, as she moderates a high-energy panel with top sustainability executives. In this compelling session, leaders will dive into the evolving role of the CSO in navigating today’s political and economic uncertainty, while remaining bullish on growth and impact. They’ll explore how sustainability data and innovation can not only safeguard business risks but also unlock business value—creating lasting impact.
Objectives and Discussion:
  • Regardless of who’s in power around the world, how to lead through sustainable growth strategies.
  • Building Value beyond Compliance: How CSOs can foster a culture of resilience, aligning sustainability goals with short and long-term business objectives, while engaging stakeholders and influencing change
  • Innovation as a Growth Catalyst: Leveraging new technologies to AI for creative solutions to drive both business impact and environmental responsibility.
Get ready for a forward-thinking conversation packed with real-world strategies, innovation, and insights from the front lines of sustainability leadership!
Stream Two

Transforming Sustainability Disclosures: Unlocking Efficiency with Next-Gen AI

Amanda Petzinger

VP, Sustainability, Stewardship, Supply Chain & ESG Solutions

Benchmark Gensuite

Sally Van Cleve

Leader, Sustainability & ESG Digital Solutions

Benchmark Gensuite

Session Details Arrow Icon

In today’s business landscape, organizations are facing an increasing number of sustainability disclosure requests from various stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and the public. Responding to these requests in a timely, accurate, and compliant manner can be a significant challenge. This session will explore how next-generation Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to revolutionize the sustainability disclosure response process. Attendees will learn about the latest AI-powered solutions that can automate data collection, analysis, and report generation, enabling organizations to streamline their sustainability disclosure workflows, improve transparency, and enhance their environmental, social, and governance reporting. This session will equip participants with the knowledge and tools to harness the power of AI and transform their sustainability disclosure practices.

Stream Three

From Greenwashing to Green Leading: How Traceability Secures Sustainability

Florent Bouguin

Chief Technology Officer, Executive VP

OPTEL Group

Session Details Arrow Icon

Sustainability is essential due to increasing regulations and consumer demands. This session presents a real-world case study demonstrating how traceability enabled compliance and provided a competitive advantage. Learn how a company improved supply chain visibility, reduced carbon emissions, and lowered costs through enhanced transparency.

10:25 am - 12:05 pm Pre-Arranged One-To-One Meetings Arrow Icon

These mutually agreed-upon conversations are arranged and facilitated by Executive Platforms staff to ensure attendees have valuable discussions about their top-of-mind questions, challenges, and opportunities.

10:30 am – 10:50 am: Meeting Slot 1/Networking

10:55 am – 11:15 am: Meeting Slot 2/Networking

11:20 am – 11:40 am: Meeting Slot 3/Networking

11:45 am – 12:05 pm: Meeting Slot 4/Networking

12:10 pm - 12:45 pm Case Studies
Stream One - Responsible Business Practices

Visualizing Aviation’s Path to Net Zero

Brian Moran

Chief Sustainability Officer

Boeing

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  • Discover the Boeing Cascade Climate Impact Model, a data modeling and visualization tool that evaluates effective strategies to cut aviation emissions
  • See how Boeing is utilizing the tool to deliver holistic, data-driven solutions for customers and stakeholders in pursuit of net zero
  • Dive into examples of how Boeing develops technologies that will contribute to the industry’s ambitious climate change commitments
  • Learn how Boeing is convening key players from the aviation, energy, policy, and finance sectors to help decarbonize aerospace together
Stream Two - Social Leadership

Leveraging Compliance Competencies to Drive Sustainability Progress

Page Motes

Chief Compliance & Sustainability Officer

Hertz

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  • Sustainability continues to become more and more regulated, and programs need more diverse skills and competencies
  • Compliance practitioners have been deep in the “G” and often “S” (of ESG) for many years – way before the acronym
  • What can sustainability officers and practitioners learn, and even leverage, from compliance professionals and their unique skills?
  • Firsthand Experience on how Page is leveraging the competencies of her combined organization to help advance the sustainability agenda
  • What other sustainability officers may want to consider given their own unique reporting structure and organizational makeup
Stream Three - Environmental Sustainability

Net Zero & The Path to Energy Goals

Roger Martella

Chief Corporate Officer, Head of Global Government Affairs and Policy, and Chief Sustainability Officer

GE Vernova

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  • Exploring innovative technologies and strategies that can help accelerate the deployment of renewable energy sources and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in achieving net-zero emissions
  • Discussing some of the biggest barriers that industries face in achieving their net-zero energy goals, and exploring how they can be effectively overcome
  • Taking a deep dive into the role energy conservation and energy efficiency play, and how can individuals and businesses be incentivized to adopt these practices
  • Taking a look ahead at what opportunities exist for job creation and economic growth in the renewable energy sector, and how can we ensure a just transition for workers in fossil fuel industries?
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm THEMED LUNCH DISCUSSIONS

Explore this year’s themed lunch discussions led by industry leaders, where executives engage in focused conversations over a meal, discussing topics they’re passionate about alongside their peers.

Managing and Operationalizing Global Sustainability Commitments in an Ever-Changing Regulatory Environment

How to Reduce Emissions & De-Fossilize Now with Integrity

The Role of Empowering Communities and Reducing Wealth Gaps Through Sustainable Development

Why Integrating Climate Risk Into Your Sustainability Strategy Can No Longer be Overlooked

How CPGs Can Integrate Sustainability into Their Governance Structures to Drive Impact

Empowering CSOs to Elevate Their Role with the CEO & Board of Directors

How to Encourage Societal and Behavioural Change to Support Sustainable Solutions?

ESG Governance: Mastering the Art of Board Engagement for Sustainable Leadership

Engagement Through Purpose: Strategies to Align Employee Values with Corporate Sustainability

Why Engaging Cross-Functional Teams in the ESG Roadmap Development Process is Crucial

Energy and Sustainability Project Financing 101

Climate and Nature Nexus: How to Optimize Business Value from a Dual Approach to Sustainability

Redesigning for Sustainability: Product Strategies with Circularity in Mind

Accelerating Industrial Decarbonization: Strategies for Immediate Impact

1:45 pm - 2:20 pm KEYNOTE

Flavoring the Future Sustainably

Michael Okoroafor

Chief Sustainability Officer

McCormick & Company

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  • Sourcing ingredients responsibly by partnering with farmers and suppliers to ensure sustainable and ethical practices
  • Exploring McCormick’s latest advancements in sustainable packaging solutions, including materials sourcing and design innovations aimed at reducing environmental impact
  • Learning about comprehensive strategies to lower carbon emissions throughout operations, from production to distribution
  • Increasing the use of renewable energy sources to power facilities and reducing reliance on fossil fuels
2:25 pm - 3:00 pm Workshops
Stream One

Sustainable Innovation

Manoj Mathew

Global Practice Leader - Sustainability Engineering

Cognizant

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly acting as a powerful tool to drive greener practices across various industries and sectors — from energy management to waste reduction and sustainable agriculture.
Manoj will share his experiences and describe how Cognizant is leveraging Artificial intelligence (AI) to contribute to sustainable innovation by enabling companies to optimize operations, reduce waste, predict environmental changes, and develop new products and services that are more environmentally friendly.
Stream Two

How Investing in High-Quality Sustainability Data and Reporting Now Can Drive Financial Value

Patrick Obeid

CEO

Tracera

Sam Israelit

Advisory Partner and Chief Sustainability Officer

Bain & Company

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  • Learning how to evaluate and select suppliers based on their sustainability practices, ensuring alignment with your business’s environmental goals
  • Exploring strategies to minimize carbon emissions across your supply chain, including transportation optimization and sustainable logistics solutions
  • Discovering best practices for ethical sourcing and procurement, focusing on fair trade, responsible sourcing, and minimizing environmental impact
  • Understanding the importance of transparency in your supply chain, using tools and technologies to track and report on sustainability metrics
Stream Three

A Joint Approach to Decarbonization: Linking Product Life Cycle Assessment and Corporate GHG Accounting

Naved Siddique

Chief Product Officer

Sphera

Courtney Eastman

Director, Global Sustainability & Decarbonization

Eastman

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Despite the increasing number of decarbonization and net-zero commitments, and regulatory requirements for climate disclosure, many organizations struggle to deliver on their emission reduction targets. Often, this shortfall is due to siloed corporate and product decarbonization efforts. Corporate GHG accounting gives a broader view of emissions but may cause sustainability leaders to miss specific opportunities for decarbonization lying upstream and downstream in the value chain—the scope 3 impacts.

Adding product sustainability initiatives like product carbon footprint (PCF) calculations and life cycle assessment (LCA) as a core element of corporate decarbonization efforts can bridge this gap and create synergies to drive measurable emissions reductions across the corporate value chain and products’ life cycles.

Join this session to learn how you can:

  • Eliminate guesswork, offering insights into emissions hotspots across the products’ life cycles.
  • Provide a more accurate and comprehensive view of Scope 3 emissions.
  • Establish a consistent data foundation for accurate corporate and product carbon accounting and reporting while aligning the entire organization toward a unified decarbonization goal.
  • Avoid environmental burden shifting and prepare for compliance with regulations that address broader sustainability issues such as biodiversity or the circular economy.
3:05 pm - 4:15 pm Pre-Arranged One-To-One Meetings Arrow Icon

These mutually agreed-upon conversations are arranged and facilitated by Executive Platforms staff to ensure attendees have valuable discussions about their top-of-mind questions, challenges, and opportunities.

3:05 pm – 3:25 pm: Meeting Slot 5/Networking

3:30 pm – 3:50 pm: Meeting Slot 6/Networking

3:55 pm – 4:15 pm: Meeting Slot 7/Networking

4:20 pm - 4:55 pm KEYNOTE

The Next Billion Sustainable Choices: How Payments Can Power the Circular Economy

Ellen Jackowski

Executive Vice President, Chief Sustainability Officer

Mastercard

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As the urgency for sustainable consumption grows, businesses and consumers need both incentives and seamless solutions to make circular choices the default. This keynote explores how payments technology can enable more sustainable business models, from product-as-a-service to resale and repair ecosystems, while also informing and inspiring consumers to make lower-impact decisions. By embedding sustainability into everyday transactions, we unlock new value creation opportunities and accelerate the transition to a more circular, regenerative economy

4:55 pm - 5:30 pm KEYNOTE

Leaders Who Champion Sustainability

Paulette Frank

Chief Sustainability Officer

Johnson & Johnson

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  • Leading by example to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices in their own behavior and decision-making, inspiring others to follow suit
  • Articulating a compelling vision and develop a clear strategy for integrating sustainability into the core values and operations of an organization
  • Setting ambitious goals and providing a roadmap for achieving them
  • Recognizing the need for change and navigate the complexities of transitioning toward sustainable practices
5:30 pm - 5:35 pm

Chair’s Closing Remarks

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

5:35 pm
6:00 pm
6:30 pm

March 14th

7:30 am - 8:25 am
7:45 am - 8:20 am breakfast workshops
8:25 am - 8:35 am

Chair's Welcome Address

8:35 am - 9:10 am KEYNOTE

Building on Our Past to Reach a Better, More Impactful Future

Dirk Voeste

Chief Sustainability Officer

Volkswagen Group

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  • Exploring how Volkswagen is making ESG performance a fundamental part of everything it does
  • Understanding the scale of both the challenge and the opportunity: Volkswagen’s operations and products account for 1% of global CO2 emissions. What would orienting a million employees across a global footprint towards sustainability look like, and what would it achieve?
  • Showcasing the plan to decarbonize a global enterprise and build products that will function well in the circular economy of the future
  • Where are we now, and where are we going? How are we going to get there, and when? What do we need along the way, and how can we share our experience and lessons learned with other businesses throughout our journey?
9:10 am - 9:45 am KEYNOTE

Embracing Circular Innovation

Jen Huffstetler

Chief Sustainability Officer

HP Inc

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  • Showcasing HP’s advancements in closed-loop recycling systems for plastics and other materials used in its products
  • Learning about HP’s product design strategies that facilitate easy disassembly and material recovery at end-of-life
  • Discovering how HP is extending product lifecycles through remanufacturing programs, reducing waste and resource consumption
  • Promoting circularity within the supply chain, including partnerships with suppliers committed to sustainable practices
9:50 am - 10:25 am Case Studies
STREAM 1 CASE STUDY

Innovative Approaches to Resiliency and Circularity

James Gowen

Chief Sustainability Officer/ Senior Vice President Global Supply Chain & Sourcing

Verizon

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James Gowen, who has served as Verizon’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Supply Chain since 2009, shares his insights on integrating sustainability into global supply chain operations. Under his leadership, Verizon has made strides in reducing its environmental footprint while transforming its supply chain to align with ambitious sustainability goals. In this session, James will outline how to set actionable goals, measure progress, and drive meaningful change.

  • Taking a holistic and forward-looking perspective to ensure that our current practices are sustainable
  • Discussing the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind,
  • Demonstrating the potential for creative solutions to address sustainability challenges and pave the way for a more resilient future
  • Offering solutions in the development of sustainable alternatives to traditional materials
STREAM 2 CASE STUDY

Transforming the Beverage Industry for a More Sustainable Future

Kurt Ritter

Vice President & GM Sustainability North America

Coca-Cola

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  • Highlighting advancements in lightweighting and sustainable packaging designs to reduce plastic usage and environmental impact
  • Discover Coca-Cola’s efforts to replenish water sources used in its beverages through community water projects and conservation initiatives
  • Understand how Coca-Cola collaborates with stakeholders and NGOs to promote sustainable water management practices and reduce water footprint
STREAM 3 CASE STUDY

Innovating for a Sustainable Future

Scott Collick

Vice President, Sustainability

DuPont

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  • Explore DuPont’s commitment to creating innovative, sustainable materials and products that minimize environmental impact and enhance performance
  • Learn about DuPont’s efforts to implement circular economy principles by designing products for recyclability and promoting resource efficiency across the lifecycle
  • Discover how DuPont is reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency within its operations to meet ambitious climate goals
  • Understand DuPont’s initiatives to manage water resources responsibly, including reducing water usage and improving water quality in communities where it operates
10:25 am - 11:15 am Pre-Arranged One-To-One Meetings Arrow Icon

Pre-Arranged One-to-One Meetings

These mutually agreed-upon conversations are arranged and facilitated by Executive Platforms staff to ensure attendees have valuable discussions about their top-of-mind questions, challenges, and opportunities.

10:30 am – 10:50 am: Meeting Slot 8/Networking

10:55 am – 11:15 am: Meeting Slot 9/Networking

10:25 am - 11:15 am FOCUS GROUP

Executive focus groups are informal moderated discussions among peers, held during networking breaks outside the summit agenda. No sign-up is required; delegates and speakers can join any group of interest.

TOPIC one

From Ambition to Action: A Company Case Study in Driving Sustainable Outcomes

Allyson Anderson Book

Chief Sustainability Officer

Baker Hughes Company

11:20 am - 11:55 am Workshops
Stream One

Building Resilient Supply Chains: Innovating for Sustainability and Business Growth

Sarah Moasser

Sustainability Solution Consultant

EcoVadis

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Is your supply chain resilient enough to withstand global disruptions? Can sustainability drive both innovation and cost optimization?

In today’s evolving risk landscape, businesses must manage disruptions while driving growth. This session will explore:

  • A proactive, data-driven formula for managing supply chain risks
  • The role of new technology in radically expanding visibility across suppliers
  • Right-sizing supplier engagement techniques based on profile and risk level
  • Proven strategies for performance improvement and long-term sustainability success
Stream Two

Carbon Credits: The Next Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?

Todd Krause

Chief Revenue Officer

Climate Impact Partners Limited

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This workshop will provide insights into how companies can approach carbon credit purchases strategically, meeting their long-term sustainability goals and supporting the development of impactful projects with incredible stories to tell. During this workshop:

  • Explore the potential of long-term offtake agreements for carbon credits and how to structure this like a PPA
  • Discover how to manage price risk and ensure a stable supply of high-quality credits.
  • Gain insights from real-world case studies and expert discussions

Join the conversation and shape the future of carbon markets.

12:00 pm - 12:35 pm KEYNOTE

Advancing Healthcare with Sustainability

Raman Venkatesh

Chief Sustainability Officer

Medtronic

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  • Learn about Medtronic’s commitment to designing medical devices and technologies that minimize environmental impact through sustainable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing
  • Exploring strategies to achieve its ambitious carbon reduction targets, including renewable energy adoption and operational efficiency improvements
  • Offering initiatives to minimize waste through innovative packaging designs that prioritize recyclability and reduce resource consumption
  • Discussing efforts to improve energy efficiency within facilities and increase the use of renewable energy sources
12:35 pm - 1:35 pm THEMED LUNCH DISCUSSIONS

Explore this year’s themed lunch discussions led by industry leaders, where executives engage in focused conversations over a meal, discussing topics they’re passionate about alongside their peers.

Unlocking the Power of Net Zero: Transforming Sustainability Goals into Key Business Drivers

Mastering Sustainable Storytelling Across Your Brand

From Waste to Wheels: How Renewable Natural Gas is Transforming Transportation Emissions

Climate on the Edge: Turning Risk into Opportunity through Adaptation and Mitigation

Low Carbon Solutions in Transportation – Evaluating Life-Cycle Carbon Impact and Economics of Leading Strategies

How to Get Your Entire Organization to C.A.A.R.E. About Sustainability?

Futureproofing Organizations and Preparing the Workforce for Sustainability

Decarbonizing Your Grid: The Role of Sustainability in Sourcing Electricity for Business

1:35 pm - 2:10 pm KEYNOTE

Promoting Growth Through Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships

Gayle Schueller

Senior Vice President & Chief Sustainability Officer

3M

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  • Embracing innovation to create sustainable solutions to support building resilience in infrastructure and communities
  • Raising awareness and promoting education about the importance of sustainable practices
  • Achieving long-term sustainability by collaborating among various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals
  • Promoting active involvement of communities and the development of their capacity to respond to climate change impacts
2:15 pm - 2:50 pm KEYNOTE

Pioneering Low Carbon Solutions

Matt Kolesar

Chief Environmental Scientist

ExxonMobil

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  • ExxonMobil’s view of energy demand and supply dynamics through 2050
  • ExxonMobil’s resolve to drive meaningful change, the results were already delivering, and our plans under a wide range of future scenarios
  • Addressing climate change challenges through partnerships with governments, academia, and industry stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of low carbon solutions
2:50 pm - 3:00 pm

Chair’s Closing Remarks

Kristen Siemen

Former, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer

General Motors

Please note: This agenda is subject to change based on speaker availability and scheduling.