Sustainability takes centre stage at IFE seminar programme

New for 2023 is the Sustainability Stage, sponsored by Elopak, which will see a wide range of speakers take a deep dive into a plethora of issues under the banner of ESG, reflecting the diverse range of talking points within this important topic.  

A full day of content will be curated by key event partner the Food & Drink Federation (FDF), who have gathered together an unrivalled selection of speakers to delve into topics such as building resiliency into our food systems, achieving net zero, meeting evolving customer expectations, the transition to a circular economy for plastics and packaging and what ‘green skills’ are needed by the eco-conscious workforce of tomorrow.  

Head of climate change & energy policy at the FDF, Emma Piercy, commented, “The FDF is delighted to be partnering with IFE for their inaugural Sustainability Stage at this world-class event.   

“Global food systems make up around one-quarter of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. Bringing all stakeholders together and collaborating at IFE is essential to building the resilient and sustainable food systems we need.” 

Alongside curating a members’ pavilion within IFE’s Chilled & Frozen section, event partners the British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF) will be taking to the stage to discuss sustainability innovators within the frozen food sector, and how frozen food can pave the way to a more sustainable supply chain.  

Commenting on the new stage, BFFF chief executive Rupert Ashby said, “We are very much looking forward to discussing what sustainability means for the frozen food industry. Sustainability is at the top of the agenda for nearly all of our members at present with important target dates now appearing over the horizon.” 

Another session will take a close look at how upskilling employees in sustainability best practices can lead to a lower carbon future for the industry. Panellist Ben Goodwin, head of policy at the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA), commented, “I’m delighted to be shining a light on the importance of green skills development throughout the food and drink sector.

“The sector will play a big part in our transition to a cleaner economy, so ensuring that those individuals working within it are ready to deliver is critical. This is a fantastic opportunity for discussion on how we drive this agenda forwards.” 

To view the full seminar programme for IFE 2023, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, click here.