Past sessions
New tools for putting environmental life cycle thinking into action
This event featured new tools and studies that can aid business, government and non-profits in understanding and evaluating the greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution impacts of goods and services throughout their environmental life cycles. In particular, speakers focused on the development and practical uses of three new tools. (February 2012)
2011 Review of Minnesota's consumer electronics recycling law
The Minnesota Electronics Recycling Act turned 4 in May, and this state-level product stewardship program continues to mature. This panel of speakers offered their perspectives on experiences with the program and offer suggestions for potential improvements. The event featured presentations and opportunity for discussion. (December 2011)
Increasing recycling in the U.S. through EPR
Nestlé Waters North America is the leading corporate advocate for extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging in the U.S., with a commitment to achieving 60 percent recovery of its PET bottles by 2018. The speaker, Michael Washburn, fleshed out this vision for increasing packaging recycling in the U.S. (November 2011)
Product stewardship efforts in Ontario and Manitoba
Speakers addressed the development and implementation of stewardship programs for a variety of products, with a particular emphasis on waste electronics and packaging. (August 2010)
Review of Minnesota's consumer electronics recycling law
A panel of stakeholders offered perspective on how the Electronics Recycling Act has changed the landscape of recycling consumer electronics from Minnesota. (June 2010)
Green cleaning
Green cleaning was the focus, with speakers representing two leading Minnesota companies. (April 2010)
Biopolymers
Perspectives on current research and products being developed using bio-based chemicals, featuring a panel of Minnesota experts. (October 2009)
Sustainable packaging
A panel of Minnesota packaging experts discussed the goals and activities of the Sustainable Packaging Coalition, as well as the moves Minnesota companies are making towards more sustainable packaging. (September 2009)
Sustainability at 3M
Several representatives from 3M outlined how product stewardship is implemented at 3M, from product design through end-of-life management considerations. (June 2008)
Interest in policy
Addressed the growing national interest in product policy, particularly from local government. (April 2008)
Product standards, certifications, and eco-labels
A presentation on the growing interest in product standards, certifications and eco-labels and their role in promoting sustainable products. (February 2008)
