And now for something completely different. We’re sidestepping our roster of food founders for this one because we want to take you down the path less travelled, this conversation is with Kristy O'Leary—a subject matter expert and consultant that helps businesses of all types, including food, beverage and agriculture, to affect positive change. Radical change.
In this episode we’re going behind the scenes of how business can approach sustainability while still driving profits and how consumers can play a major role in how companies can act and market more ethically. We talk about certifications and corporate responsibility, we talk about how international brands have the biggest role to play and how social justice fits into a sustainability mandate.
The future is brighter through food when smart people are helping business become more transparent, more accountable, and more deeply committed to making things that are good for people and the planet. This is a really fun, chill and insightful conversation and we know you’re going to love listening in.
Here are the highlights:
Concept of the Ideal Future Grocery Store: Kristy envisions a grocery store where all workers are paid fair living wages and are connected to the food system. Every product is regenerative, meaning it leaves something better than it was before, like regenerating soil or using animals in regenerative agriculture.
Understanding Regenerative Practices: There's a distinction between "organic" and "regenerative organic." While organic focuses on fewer chemicals, regenerative practices aim to heal and improve the environment, like soil regeneration.
Consumer Behaviour and Demand: Both discuss how consumer behaviour can influence the market. Consumers should demand better options and not just seek perfection but progress. Brands need to communicate their sustainable efforts effectively, as green blushers (companies doing good work but not talking about it) miss the opportunity to influence consumer choice.
Role of Big and Small Companies: There's a discussion about the impact of large corporations versus small businesses in sustainability. While small, local businesses are crucial, the transformation of large companies can have a massive impact on the economy and sustainability practices.
B Corp Certification: They delve into the significance of B Corp certification, which indicates a company meets high standards of social, environmental, and governance practices. Kristy encourages consumers to trust brands with this certification, as achieving it requires significant effort and change.
Challenges with Sustainable Choices: The conversation acknowledges the complexity consumers face when choosing sustainable products. For instance, Nespresso's B Corp certification versus more eco-friendly but less recognized alternatives. The importance of transparency and consumer education is emphasized.
Social Justice in Business: The interview touches on how companies often address social aspects, like employee welfare, before tackling environmental issues. The conversation advocates for economic justice and the importance of local spending to support community and environmental well-being.
Call to Action for Companies: Kristy urges companies to become more radical and proactive in their sustainability efforts. She emphasizes that it's time for substantial change and that companies, not just consumers, bear the responsibility for ensuring a livable planet for future generations.
Learn more about Kristy and her teams' work here:
https://www.decadeimpact.com/
Thanks for listening! This podcast is brought to you by www.ethicalfoodgroup.com.
