In this week’s Climate Week NYC webinar, we at Kite Hill PR were proud to host and gather industry experts to discuss the importance of sustainability and climate tech communications. The panel included Nadine Traboulsi, Vice President Marketing, Sapphire Technologies, Danny Grande, Co-founder and CPO, Arbor, and Olivia Burca, Director of Sustainability, Sustainable Future Lab, and was moderated by our very own Emma Wolfe, VP.
The panelists discussed the importance of scaling early-stage climate technologies and the impact of the US election on the conversation around climate change and sustainability. They also shared insights on what business leaders are focusing on now and the challenges they face in sustainability communications.
Here are the top 5 key takeaways:
Scaling early-stage climate technologies is critical to combating climate change. Companies should keep assisting early-stage climate tech companies top of mind to support their growth and prevent them from losing funding and stifling innovation.
Sustainability communications should be laser-focused on the business's goals, mission, and vision. Brands should navigate the balancing act between political and regulatory environments by keeping their sustainability communications focused on their core values.
Companies must be simple, transparent and authentic in their sustainability communications. By acknowledging that the organization may not have all the answers or data yet, they avoid greenwashing and build trust among key stakeholders.
Cross-functional collaboration is essential for effective sustainability communications. Collaborate with the legal team from the beginning to align on the roadmap and avoid potential challenges. Involving legal teams and other stakeholders early in the process and ensuring transparency across the organization.
Communicators should avoid a "doomsday" tone when discussing climate change. Instead should focus on highlighting the positive impact of sustainability initiatives and the potential for businesses to lead the way in addressing climate change.
Bonus Tips
Stay agile: The climate conversation keeps evolving. If you are an entrepreneur or an already established industry leader, agility is the name of the game.
Implement a process: Prioritizing key targets and implement Large Account Management Process (LAMP) or a Sprint.
Thank you once again to our moderator and panelists — their insights on how these trends can impact business leaders, marketers, and communicators are invaluable. We also extend our gratitude to our fantastic audience for joining us in celebrating New York City's Climate Week.
Did you miss it? Visit our website to catch the playback, and be sure to pass it along to any colleagues who you think might be interested!
— Maggie Stasko, Senior Account Manager