It’s good to be back.
Last year, the team at Sourcing Journal took our annual Sustainability Summit to the West Coast for the first time. That sojourn proved to be fruitful in myriad ways.
We got to connect with our peers that we don’t often see face to face, we spotlighted voices that graced our stage for the first time, and we did so in an atmosphere that was friendly, engaged and open-minded. Personally, I can’t wait to do it again.
This year’s theme, “A New Way of Thinking,” has numerous meanings. First, and most obviously, it calls out the constant innovation in the sustainability space that is improving by leaps and bounds with each season. But, on a deeper level, it sparks the conversation of how to proceed when the headwinds are fierce. From government program cuts to corporate pullbacks to stalled or neutered global legislation, this is not an easy time to be fighting for change. Winning this battle will require fresh ideas, a willingness to be nimble and the desire we all have to improve how our industry affects the world.
Addressing the need for new solutions, we will spotlight serious research with the scientists and educators who are doing the work behind the scenes that will fuel the better products and procedures of the future.
Bringing the pages of SJ Denim to life, we are once again giving the blue its due with representatives from numerous labels taking the stage. As the home of U.S.-made denim, LA is the perfect venue to have these conversations.
California is also on the forefront of legislative change, and the progress being made in that arena will be in focus, as well. From EPR to circularity, there’s a lot to cover, and we’ll be discussing where laws stand and what they might mean for the industry beyond state lines.
We will also again be bestowing the Baker Tilly Fashion Innovator Award to a deserving, eco-friendly company that marries style with sustainability. Be there to find out who we are honoring!
Recognizing that we all have a lot to learn from each other, we’re gathering great people and curating an agenda that will leave you with valuable takeaways and contacts so you can return to your company ready to make the uphill climb toward change. Can’t wait to see you there.
Peter Sadera
Editor in Chief
Sourcing Journal