“We Are Banning Glitter, Don’t Like Staples and Have A Downer On Foil Blocking,” Said Tesco’s Paul Earnshaw at Sustainability Conference (SILC)

The Sustainability In Licensing Conference 2021 (organised by a sibling business to PG Buzz) took place digitally last week, ‘attended’ by over 500 attendees, including a number from the UK greeting card industry to those from 20 different countries from many different product sectors – all on a mission to be updated, educated and informed on the latest eco developments as the consumer products industry heads for a more sustainable future.

Above: SILC 21 covered so much ground that was relevant to all consumer product sectors. — **Above:** SILC 21 covered so much ground that was relevant to all consumer product sectors.

With input from retailers Tesco, Asda and Character.com as well as engaging panel discussions (including how the gaming industry is sharing the collective responsibility), details about the upcoming ‘plastic tax’ surcharges that come into effect in a few months’ time as well as inspirational talks from business leaders, and even Olympiad Hannah Mills MBE, the packed agenda enlightened and educated in equal measure.

Above: Tesco’s Paul Earnshaw, a self-confessed “packaging geek” gave a really engaging talk about the grocer’s stance on sustainability that is based on the four Rs. — **Above:** Tesco’s Paul Earnshaw, a self-confessed “packaging geek” gave a really engaging talk about the grocer’s stance on sustainability that is based on the four Rs.

The conference was attended by brand owners, product suppliers and retailers from all core categories, including those from the greeting card industry as well as those from the gift, toy, housewares, apparel, textiles and entertainment sectors among others.

To find out what ground Asda has gained on its environmental pledges click here…

Above: Asda’s Mel Wilson and Jade Snart left attendees in no doubt that we all need to work together without delay on the sustainability front. — **Above:** Asda’s Mel Wilson and Jade Snart left attendees in no doubt that we all need to work together without delay on the sustainability front.

To read more about how the gaming industry is working together on the sustainability front click here…

Lap up the research findings about how kids are reacting to climate change from The Insights Family by clicking here…

Above: Jonathan Watson of The Insights Family shared some fascinating research findings. — **Above:** Jonathan Watson of The Insights Family shared some fascinating research findings.

To hear all about confronting the supply chain issues sustainably from Julia Redman of Buyers Eye, click here…

Richard Lim of Retail Economics also shared his views on the major impacts of Covid-19 on the retail sector, and how they have translated to the sustainability agenda for retail boards. Click here to read more…

Anyone who missed the conference, but wish they hadn’t can still purchase a ticket for just £100, which gives access to all the presentations and panel discussions until 1 August 2021.

Click here to buy your access ticket or contact Clare Hollick of Createvents on clare@createvents.co.uk

Top: Helena Mansell-Stopher, founder of Products of Change, who curated SILC 2021.

TAGS asda, Buyers Eye, Character.com, createvents, Retail Economics, Sustainability In Licensing Conference 2021, tesco, The Insights Family