Innovation Forum Podcast

This week: Dave Lütkenhaus, global sustainability and innovation director at Diageo, talks with Ian Welsh about the company's approach to circular packaging and how it's working to reduce scope 3 emissions. They highlight innovations in refill systems, reusable formats, and new materials being trialled across markets. Plus: at the Future of Food and Beverage conference this week, Ian talks with farmers Jocelyn Schlichting and Carla Schultz about the need for deeper partnerships between growers and food manufacturers. They explore risks in regenerative agriculture, the importance of regional nuance and how marketing decisions shape practices on the ground. And, major brands may be exiting the US Plastics Pact; EU nears 2030 climate goal, doubts remain; Italian fashion brands act on labour abuse; and, AI mineral demand threatens South American ecosystems, in the news digest by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Diana Kim

Tara St James, senior director of sustainability at Moose Knuckles talks with Ian Welsh at the recent sustainable apparel and textiles conferences. They discuss the implications a digital product passport introduction will bring and the specific requirements businesses must fulfil. They highlight practical steps in achieving this and what consumer experience would look like. To continue the conversation, join the sustainable apparel and textiles conference, taking place in New York City on 24-25 June. Click here for information on how to get involved.

Sustainability claims are facing increasing scrutiny, with rising costs, data uncertainty and growing pressure on businesses to provide verifiable proof of their efforts. Supply chain blind spots, outdated data and manual processes leave sustainability teams struggling to confidently meet compliance requirements. This webinar, hosted in partnership with Picterra, explored how emerging technologies such as Geospatial AI (GeoAI), remote sensing, and satellite data analytics can empower sustainability teams with trusted insights, enabling them to move from reactive reporting to proactive oversight. Our panel of experts discussed: The key hurdles businesses face in achieving sustainability compliance Strategies for moving from outdated, manual processes to more scalable, data-driven solutions An overview of Geospatial AI and how it is changing the landscape of supply chain transparency and monitoring The role of geospatial monitoring in identifying high-risk landscapes and improving compliance The future of AI in sustainability: opportunities, concerns and limitations Panel: Alicia Sullivan, product manager – Earth Engine sustainability solutions, Google Pierrick Poulenas, CEO and Co-founder, Picterra Andrew Wilcox, associate director for sustainability – procurement strategy & insights, Unilever The conversation was moderated by Ian Welsh, publishing director, Innovation Forum.

The race to secure critical minerals is accelerating—but so is the urgency to reduce their carbon footprint. Mining, refining, and processing are energy-intensive, often reliant on fossil fuels, and responsible for significant emissions. Paradoxically, as the demand for net-zero metals grows, so too does their footprint. This webinar explores the practical pathways for decarbonising critical minerals supply. Our panelists share tangible insights, from electrifying operations and adopting renewable energy sources, to using low carbon mining technologies. The panel: Urishani Govender, chief sustainability officer, Harmony Gold Mining Company Arend Van Der Goes, senior sustainability manager, Eramet Reza Rahmaditio, critical minerals project lead, WRI Indonesia Moderator: Ian Welsh, publishing director, Innovation Forum

This week: Emma Thompson, Forest 500 and tracking lead at Global Canopy, talks with Innovation Forum's Ian Welsh about the newly released 2025 Forest 500 report, a deep dive into how the world's most influential companies are disclosing and performing on deforestation. They discuss the differences in action across commodities, how regulation is influencing corporate behaviour and expectations for further progress on key climate targets.   Plus: gen Z and millennials demand purpose and sustainability; dairy giants lag on methane action; and, Hyundai Motor Group expands mineral tracing amid scrutiny, in the news digest with Ellen Atiyah.   Host: Ian Welsh

Ahead of this year's future of food and beverage forum in Minneapolis, Innovation Forum's Anamya Anurag talks with some of the participants. She is joined by Julie Kunen from Oatly and Walmart's Michelle Zackin, and they discuss how food and beverage companies are integrating climate and nature-smart practices into supply chain strategies. They highlight how to align nature-based solutions with regenerative agriculture, and how the industry can drive circularity, risk reduction and collaboration across the value chain.   Julie and Michelle will be at the future of food and beverage forum next week in Minneapolis (28-29 May). To continue the conversation, you can find full details on how to get involved.

This week: Innovation Forum's Anamya Anurag and Ian Welsh talk about how companies are tackling supply chain volatility and advancing supply chain resilience. They discuss emerging themes including digital innovation, collaborative land-use strategies and the growing role of AI and cybersecurity in sustainability.   Plus: Dries Van Aerde from Coca-Cola Europacific Partners talks with Ian at the recent Sustainable Packaging Innovation Forum about how the company is navigating complex investment decisions, scaling refill and reuse models and responding to shifting regulatory and consumer expectations.   Host: Ian Welsh

This week: Thomas Gent, farmer at Gentle Farming talks with Innovation Forum's Hanna Halmari about the challenges and opportunities facing regenerative agriculture. They explore how innovation, better marketing and strong farmer-supply chain connections can attract younger generations and build resilience in a changing climate.   Plus: Anna-Karin Dahlberg, chief sustainability officer at Swedish fashion brand Lindex, talks with Innovation Forum's Ian Welsh about how the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive is transforming the way businesses conduct reporting.    And, indigenous rights ignored amid logging; only four nations deemed high-risk for EUDR; online marketplace Vinted tops French fashion sales; and, plastic recycling claims alleged to mislead consumers, in the news digest with Ellen Atiyah.   Host: Ian Welsh

Kevin Burkum at US Farmers and Ranchers in Action, and South Dakota dairy farmer Michael Crinion, talk with Ian Welsh about how regenerative practices such as cover cropping and improved soil health can enhance resilience and reduce input costs. They highlight key challenges including trade uncertainty, extreme weather and inflation, and explore how conservation agriculture can align with long-term farm profitability.   To continue the conversation, USFRA will be at the future of food and beverage forum in Minneapolis on 28-29 May. Click here for information on how to get involved.

This week: Innovation Forum's Niamh Campbell and Ian Welsh talk about some trends and hot topics in the apparel sector. From major tariff changes reshaping sourcing strategies, to growing momentum behind extended producer responsibility, they explore what's hot and what's next. Plus: Pierrick Poulenas, CEO of Picterra talks with Ellen Atiyah about how geospatial AI helps verify sustainability claims. Ahead of a complimentary webinar on 20th May, they discuss how to turn remote sensing into real supply chain insight. Host: Ian Welsh   Join the conversation at the sustainable apparel and textiles conference USA in New York City on 24-25 June. Click here for information on how to get involved. Join our complimentary webinars: Click here to join the webinar on geospatial AI with Picterra on 20th May. Click here to join a webinar on critical minerals decarbonisation on 15th May.

This week: As negotiations for the global plastics treaty continue, Nestlé's global public affairs lead for packaging and sustainability Jodie Roussell talks with Ian Welsh at the sustainable packaging innovation forum in Amsterdam. They discuss the political will, the regulatory stakes and why time is running short to reach a meaningful agreement. Plus: pushback against US rollback of climate-focused policy; new BNP Paribas fund for indigenous people-led forest conservation projects with Everland; Coca-Cola and Lavazza UK respond to greenwashing claims; and, circular fashion continues to grow in Europe, in the news digest by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh

Ellen McCormack, head of Europe at Watershed talks with Ian Welsh about how sustainability is moving closer to core business functions, the evolving carbon removal market, and why clean energy is increasingly a financial imperative. They explore how major companies are embedding climate strategy into operations, not just for compliance – but to unlock long-term value.

This week: Tara St James from Moose Knuckles and Ian Welsh unpack how digital product passports are reshaping supply chain transparency and compliance ahead of incoming EU regulations. They explore the challenges of supplier onboarding, data collection and engaging consumers with evolving sustainability tools. Plus: UK food sector urged to adopt AI; US secures Ukraine minerals access deal; B Corp overhauls standards to fight greenwashing; and, Brazil launches indigenous climate leadership circle, in the new digest, by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh

The Global Heat Reduction Initiative's Kiff Gallagher talks with Ian Welsh about 'Total Climate Accounting', a framework created by GHR to address critical gaps in current climate metrics by incorporating super pollutants like methane and black carbon. They discuss how this approach provides organisations with actionable data to reduce near-term warming while maintaining long-term decarbonisation goals – revealing why traditional carbon accounting falls short in today's crisis.

This week: Innovation Forum's Niamh Campbell and Ian Welsh talk about what to expect at this year's sustainable apparel and textiles conference in Amsterdam. From exciting new sessions on textile waste solutions and Dragon's Den-style material innovation pitches to important debates on greenwashing, Niamh highlights what's new at this year's conference. Plus: reflections from last year's apparel conference with Amy Nguyen from Sustainable & Social and Christine Goulay from Sustainabelle. In conversation with Ian, they share their key takeaways, such as the evolution of circular business models, scope 3 challenges, and the growing importance of better data and regulation.

This week: Kevin Burkum, CEO of US Farmers and Ranchers in Action, and Michael Crinion, a South Dakota-based farmer and chair of USFRA, talk with Ian Welsh about the evolving challenges facing US agriculture. They explore how climate volatility, trade policies and supply chain pressures are reshaping farming, and why resilience, community and innovation are key to long-term success. Plus: Apple slashes emissions and boosts recycling; EU deforestation law sparks enforcement fears; new Suntory water spinoff to tackle groundwater loss; and, the Guardian gives silent climate majority a voice, in the news digest with Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh To continue the conversation, USFRA will be at the future of food and beverage forum in Minneapolis on 28-29 May. Click here for information on how to get involved.

Sebastian Munden, chair of the environmental NGO WRAP, talks with Ian Welsh about the potential for transforming packaging systems. They highlight innovative strategies that can reduce plastic pollution and promote responsible use, ultimately paving the way for more sustainable and circular plastic systems. To continue the conversation, Sebastian will be at the sustainable packaging innovation forum (Amsterdam, 6-7 May). Click here for information on how to get involved.

This week: Ellen McCormack, head of Europe at Watershed, talks with Ian Welsh about how major companies are integrating sustainability into finance and operations. They discuss the shifting narrative from climate goals to ROI, challenges in renewable energy infrastructure, and trends in carbon removal and investor demand. Plus: vegetable oil prices surge amid instability; rare earths weaponised in US-China trade war; global shipping strikes weak emissions deal; and, leaked PR campaign sparked diet backlash, in the news digest, by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh

Colin Brown, CEO of Cascale, talks with Ian Welsh about challenges and opportunities within the consumer goods industry, particularly in apparel and textiles. They discuss the need for collective action to reduce environmental impact and improve social justice, emphasising the importance of collaboration among brands, manufacturers and retailers to weather the potential tariff storm. 

In this webinar, experts from Agreena, Mars, Nespresso, and Gentle Farming explored how verified data is driving real impact in sustainable food production — and what it takes to scale regenerative practices that work. As regenerative agriculture gains momentum, the challenge lies in scaling practices that restore soil health, reduce emissions, and enhance food production sustainability.   In partnership with Agreena, a Verra-registered climate solutions company, this webinar explored how robust, verified data is transforming RegenAg programs, how companies are using data to make food production more sustainable, and if farmers are reaping the benefits.  Our panel of experts:  Thomas Gent, regenerative farmer, Gentle Farming Reineke Van Riemsdijk, sustainability lead and technical quality manager, Nespresso Claire Petit, climate lead for pet nutrition Europe, Mars Simon Haldrup, co.founder and CEO, Agreena The conversation was moderated by Tanya Richard, chief operating officer and head of stakeholder engagement, Innovation Forum. 

This week: Innovation Forum's Anamya Anurag and Ian Welsh highlight key emerging themes in the food and beverage industry, specifically in North America. They discuss the growing importance of resilience in food security, highlighting innovations like blockchain for supply chain transparency and AI-driven technologies in agriculture that enhance sustainability and efficiency. Plus: insights from Arohi Sharma at the Natural Resources Defence Council. In conversation with Ian at the Future of Food and Beverage USA forum in 2024, she talks about the critical need for agricultural policy reform to address climate change and promote sustainable farming practices in the US. To learn more about food innovations, join us at the future of food and beverage forum USA (Minneapolis, 28-29 May) . Click here.

This week: Kiff Gallagher, executive director of the Global Heat Reduction Initiative, talks with Ian Welsh about how to improve traditional climate accounting models to take account of pollutants beyond carbon dioxide that can have significantly greater impact.  Plus: why tariffs may hinder Brazil's climate finance efforts; UK food execs warn of looming crisis; expert warns against blanket bans on all PFAS; and, new EU and UK packaging laws shift recycling costs to producers, in the news digest, by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh

Seanicaa Edwards Herron, executive director at NGO Freedmen Heirs Foundation, talks with Innovation Forum's Diana Kim about the financial challenges faced by minority farmers in the US and how they can be tackled. They discuss barriers such as lack of collateral and complex application processes that hinder access to financing and land ownership. Seanicaa shares insights on innovative funding mechanisms and how consumers can support equitable farming practices.

This week: Innovation Forum's Diana Kim and Hannah Oborne discuss latest trends within the food and beverage industry in delivering sustainable food systems. They highlight key barriers to success and share successful case studies which will be discussed further at the future of food and beverage forum in Amsterdam in May. Plus: insights from the 2024 food forum with Dorothy Shaver at Unilever. In conservation with Ian Welsh, they talk about the importance of innovative product development, regenerative agriculture practices, and supporting farmers for long-term food security. Host: Diana Kim

This week: Sebastian Munden, chair of environmental NGO WRAP, talks with Ian Welsh about the potential of circular plastics and how innovative design can significantly reduce plastic waste. They share insight about the role of regulatory frameworks in shaping sustainable packaging strategies and the need for a radical shift in consumer behaviour to truly drive change. Plus: UK faces surge in plastic bag waste; historic drought threatens global food security; US farmers suffer $20 billion in losses; US funding cuts threaten global conservation efforts; and, Dutch NGO sues ING over climate inaction, in the news digest. Host: Ellen Atiyah

Willemijn Peeters, CEO and founder of Searious Business, talks with Ian Welsh about the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging. They discuss how major brands and retailers can transition to environmentally sustainable packaging solutions that are also financially viable. Willemijn emphasises the importance of a mindset shift towards circular approaches and the role of legislation in driving change.

This week: Innovation Forum's Lia Da Giau and Ian Welsh highlight the growing integration of research and development commercial value within the packaging sector, driven by legislation such as Extended Producer Responsibility and Deposit Return Schemes. They discuss exciting innovations in flexible packaging, particularly from the likes of Unilever, which are focusing on reducing material complexity while enhancing functionality.   Plus: Dieuwertje Nelissen, chief program officer at Enviu, talks with Lia about the Mission Reuse Coalition's efforts to transition from a disposable economy to a circular one, emphasising the importance of reusable and refillable packaging solutions. They highlight latest progress, including new legislation and successful pilot projects, plus factors needed for broader adoption.   Host: Ian Welsh

At the recent Responsible Sourcing and Ethical Trade Forum in London, industry experts joined Ian Welsh to share key takeaways from the conference. They discussed supply chain frameworks for human rights remediation, the current regulatory landscape, and progress on worker protection and responsible recruitment.     Hear from: 00:59 – Duncan Warner, senior responsible sourcing and human rights manager, ASDA 05:22 – Lise Smit, business and human rights adviser, Norton Rose Fulbright 12:46 – Andrey Sawchenko, regional vice president forced labor programs, Asia Pacific, International Justice Mission 17:21 – James Sinclair, director of human rights, Verisk Maplecroft

In this webinar recording, experts discuss the emerging supply shortages, investment trends, and the impact of geopolitics on the future of transition metals crucial to the climate agenda. As demand for critical minerals surges due to accelerating clean energy initiatives, the landscape is becoming increasingly complex. Current and looming supply gaps are emerging alongside shifting political dynamics that are pivotal to the climate transition. In this webinar, the panel explored supply gaps, the projected investment trends, and how geopolitical factors are shaping the future of critical minerals. Hear insights from: Anna Fleming, consulting project manager, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence Caroline Avan, head of just transition and natural resources, Business and Human Rights Resource Centre Jonathan Horrell, group head of sustainability, The Weir Group To continue the conversation, secure your place at the inaugural critical minerals innovation forum (London, 5-6 November). Click here for information on how to get involved.

This week: Colin Browne, CEO of Cascale, talks with Ian Welsh, exploring the state of sustainability in the apparel and textile sector. They discuss the challenges of decarbonisation, impact of emerging legislation and share insight on how companies can navigate trade disruptions and prepare for the future of sustainable supply chains. Plus: companies drop “ESG” term but sustain green efforts; US farmers struggle as USDA funding freeze hits; companies raise climate targets but struggle with scope 3; and, nutri-score gains support despite EU rejection, in the news digest, by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh

Sajeev Mohankumar, senior climate and biodiversity specialist at the FAIRR Initiative, talks with Ian Welsh about key findings from the initiative's latest report on climate and nature-based interventions in agriculture. They discuss the importance of investors in driving change by assessing material risks and transitioning to net-zero solutions. They highlight the benefits of nature-based interventions over tech-based ones, particularly in livestock production, while addressing the barriers to funding and adoption of these solutions.

This week: Innovation Forum's Niamh Campbell and Ian Welsh talk about key themes shaping the apparel sector in 2025. They discuss the shifting legislation, greenwashing crackdowns, supply chain resilience and innovations in next-gen materials. Plus: at the 2024 apparel conference, CottonConnect's Alison Ward and Ian explored how to deliver climate resilience in cotton farming. They discussed sustainable practices, the role of technology, local adaptation, and government influence in shaping a more resilient and regenerative cotton supply chain. Host: Ian Welsh Alison, Niamh and Ian will be at this year's sustainable apparel and textiles conference in Amsterdam on 29-30 April. Click here for information on how to get involved.

Rob Nicholls from Musim Mas, Livelihoods Venture's Sébastien de Royer and Rizki Pandu Parma at NGO SNV, talk with Ian Welsh about the transformative efforts in regenerative agriculture within the palm oil sector. They explore how multi-stakeholder collaborations are reshaping traditional practices and empowering smallholder farmers in Sumatra. They discuss the challenges of soil degradation, the importance of sustainable farming techniques, and the innovative financial solutions being developed to support farmers through replanting phases.

This week: Seanicaa Edwards-Herron, executive director at NGO Freedmen Heirs Foundation, talks with Innovation Forum's Diana Kim about the challenges minority farmers face in securing financing and land ownership. They explore innovative funding models, the role of agtech, and how consumers and companies can support equitable and resilient food systems. Plus: at the responsible sourcing and ethical trade forum in London this week, Lise Smit from Norton Rose Fulbright talks with Ian Welsh about the EU's evolving regulatory landscape. They discuss the omnibus regulation proposal and its implications for corporate due diligence and supply chain responsibilities. Host: Ian Welsh

Innovation Forum's Natasha Bodnar and Ian Welsh talk about the responsible sourcing and ethical trade forum, coming up in London this week. Key topics include the importance of survivor voices in modern slavery discussions and the collaboration between responsible sourcing professionals and procurement teams. And, another chance to hear Peter McAllister, Ethical Trade Initiative, and Sam Ludlow-Taylor from John Lewis Partnership reflecting on key discussions at the 2024 conference. In conversation with Ian Welsh, among the topics they explore include the effectiveness of social audits in manufacturing versus agriculture, highlighting the unique challenges each sector faces. Host: Ian Welsh

This week: Willemijn Peeters, CEO and founder of Searious Business talks with Ian Welsh about what a sustainable approach to packaging looks like. They discuss how businesses can transition to circular systems by prioritising design for reuse and recycling while considering existing infrastructures. Plus: Brazil's highway sparks outrage before COP30; Ghana's cocoa crisis fuels illegal gold mining; rising biodiesel demand threatens palm oil supply; and, California revises plastic rules amid cost concerns, in the news digest by Ellen Atiyah. Continue the conversation with Willemijn at the Sustainable Packaging Innovation Forum in Amsterdam (6-7 May) to explore practical solutions and innovations in sustainable packaging. Click here for information on how to get involved.

Andrew Wallis, CEO of Unseen talks with Ian Welsh about the critical role businesses play in addressing modern slavery. Andrew discusses the importance of transparency, effective governance and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure human rights are upheld in supply chains. They highlight the need for stronger legislation and proactive corporate responsibility as essential steps toward eradicating forced labour.

This week: Ian Welsh speaks with David Antonioli, former CEO of Verra and founder of Transition Finance about the state of play in the carbon markets. They discuss the foundational work being done to improve market integrity, greenwashing concerns and long-term decarbonization strategies.  Plus, Ian discusses Scope 3 supply chains emissions with Natasha Bodnar. Key challenges include financing decarbonization and improving emissions data transparency. Initiatives such as green supply chain financing and AI-driven lifecycle assessments are emerging to help companies tackle these challenges.   For more insights on Scope 3 and supply chain decarbonization, join Innovation Forum's Scope 3 Innovation Forum in Amsterdam on June 3-4. Host: Ian Welsh To read the report mentioned in this episode, click here: https://tranfin.com/home/resources  Stay up-to-date on our podcasts by following us on PodBean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Podcasts.

Aidan Maguire, coalition program manager at the Plastic Pollution Coalition, talks with Ian Welsh about some examples of innovative new materials that can replace plastic at scale. They also discuss the outcomes from the INC-5 meetings and share insights on the need for ambitious treaties to address plastic production and harmful chemical use.

This week: Sajeev Mohankumar, from investor group the FAIRR initiative, talks with Ian Welsh about his research into on-farm interventions for livestock climate and nature risks. In particular, he compares the effectiveness of nature-based and tech-based interventions. Plus: major migrant worker abuse issues in food supply chains; the European Commission goes cold on nutri-score food labelling; EU omnibus regulation; successful reusable cup trial in California; and, how greenhushing is going mainstream, in the news digest, by Ellen Atiyah. Host: Ian Welsh Sajeev Mohankimar will be at the Future of Food and Beverage USA in Minneapolis on 28-29 May. To continue the conversation, secure your spot here. To discover further analysis from the FAIRR initiative, view the full report here.

This week: Innovation Forum's Hannah Oborne and Ian Welsh highlight latest trends in the food and beverage industry. They discuss the implications of the EU's omnibus regulation and share key examples of innovations and collaborations from organisations such as Unilever and TechnoServe. Plus: Agreena's CEO and co-founder Simon Haldrup talks with Ellen Atiyah about how technology is revolutionising approaches to climate-smart agriculture and the importance of verified data. And, a preview of the recording of Innovation Forum's recent next-gen packaging materials webinar. Hear from ex-Just Eat Takeaway.com Robin Clark, talking about how their partnership with Notpla has developed. Host: Ian Welsh To join the conversation on the latest food innovations and partnership, secure your place at the future of food and beverage forum in Amsterdam on 13-14 May. Click here for full registration details. Click here to join a complimentary webinar with Agreena, discussing how technology can power data-driven sustainability in food systems. Register here.

This week: Jeff Milder from the Accountability Framework initiative and Louise Nakagawa from Brazilian NGO Imaflora talk with Ian Welsh about the AFi's public consultation to refine guidance for responsible supply chains. They discuss the challenges of aligning sustainability standards, improving traceability, and supporting smallholder inclusion in ethical commodity production. Plus: Kresse Wesling from Elvis and Kresse speaking at the 2024 sustainable apparel and textiles conference in Amsterdam about upcycling and driving sustainability in fashion, and the urgent need for better industry practices and regulation. And, the EU sets new food and textile waste targets; the US nears mineral deal with Ukraine; the European Commission shifts agri-food policy away from strict environmental goals; UN biodiversity talks kick off in Rome; and climate change worsens bird flu outbreaks, in the news digest with Ellen Atiyah.

French sporting goods brand Decathlon's head of environmental evaluation, Quentin Badenelle, shares his experiences implementing the requirements of the EU's product environmental footprint. In conversation with Ian Welsh, he explores how PEF metrics can transform product design, supply chain transparency and consumer trust in sustainability claims.

Circularity has the potential to reshape industries, reduce waste, and regenerate nature. But when it comes to the social side, is it advancing a just transition, or does it risk deepening global inequalities? This webinar discussion took a holistic approach to circularity to explore how circular systems can empower workers, foster economic resilience, and drive sustainable growth for the triple bottom line—people, planet, and profit. Hear insights from: Carmen Gama, director of circularity, Eileen Fisher Dr Hakan Karaosman, associate professor at Cardiff University and co-founder of FReSCH Paul Kerssens, COO and co-founder, United Repair Centre

This week: Ian Welsh and Innovation Forum's Niamh Campbell talk about the tension between regulatory uncertainty and the need for innovation within the fashion industry. Despite these hurdles, new partnerships are driving progress in, for example, ethical sourcing, recycled materials and regenerative cotton initiatives.   Plus: a preview of the recording of Innovation Forum's recent apparel sector circularity webinar. Hear from Carmen Gama at Eileen Fisher, talking about the brand's take back programme.    Host: Ian Welsh   To join the conversation on the latest textile innovations and partnership, secure your place at thesustainable apparel and textiles conference in Amsterdam on 29-30 April. Click here for full registration details.   Click here to join a complimentary webinar tomorrow, discussing the future of alternative packaging materials in driving circularity. Hear from Notpla, Mondi Group, traceless and ex-Just Eat Takeaway.com. Register here.

A wide variety of companies face significant risks related to human rights in sourcing minerals critical to the energy transition. Join us to explore how businesses can minimise sourcing risks across mining, electronics, EVs, and renewable energy. The panellists discussed practical steps for monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. Speakers included: Angela Jorns, head of impact innovation, Fairphone Shahila Perumalpillai, human rights principal, Anglo American James Nicholson, head of corporate responsibility, Trafigura Haajarah Ahmed, manager, International Council Mining and Metal The conversation was moderated by Ian Welsh, publishing director, Innovation Forum. This webinar is part of 'The reality of critical minerals' series. Click here to view the upcoming events in the series.

This week: Rob Nicholls from Musim Mas, Livelihoods Venture's Sébastien de Royer and Rizki Pandu Parma at NGO SNV talk with Ian Welsh about a regenerative agriculture programme in Sumatra, Indonesia – Livelihoods Project. They explore the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in enhancing smallholder livelihoods and regenerative agriculture in sustainable palm oil production.   Plus: more food price volatility in 2025; Brazil opposes UN shipping levy on cost; global south urges EU to uphold corporate due diligence law while France considers rollback; Indonesia rethinks Paris Agreement commitment, in the news digest with Ellen Atiyah.   Host: Ian Welsh

Marty Matlock from the University of Arkansas talks with Ian Welsh about how US agriculture can become a climate solution, transitioning to be a net-negative in terms of greenhouse gas. They discuss the innovation in existing farming practices necessary and how farmers can be at the forefront of the transition.

This week: Ian Welsh and Anamya Anurag explores emerging food trends in North America, including farmer inclusion specifically for underrepresented farmers and continued uncertainty around input costs, labour availability and policies.    Plus: a short preview of a interview coming up in the Innovation Forum podcast with palm oil company Musim Mas, social business Livelihood Ventures and impact NGO SNV, discussing regenerative agriculture in Indonesia. Hear from SNV's Rizki Pandu Parma talk about how farmers are being empowered by region ag projects.   Host: Ian Welsh   Click here for more information on upcoming complimentary webinars.   To learn more about food innovations, join us at the future of food and beverage forum USA (Minneapolis, 28-29 May) . Click here.

This week: Andrew Wallis, CEO of business and human rights NGO Unseen, talks with Ian Welsh about what good practice looks like when companies are engaging on responsible sourcing and ethical trade issues. They discuss the opportunities business can take advantage of and what incoming legislation means for them.   Plus: more calls for delay in EU sustainability regulations; soy sector companies back threatened soy moratorium; why renewable energy's rise is unstoppable; and, EUDR  may threaten Scandinavian forestry, in the news digest.   Host: Ian Welsh

Wayne Jordash, managing partner at Beyond Human Rights Compliance, talks with Ian Welsh about how companies are engaging with evolving business and human rights regulation, particularly from the European Union. Wayne shares advice on how companies can approach risk assessments,  what to look out for and the opportunities from this approach.