FOSTERING SUSTAINABILITY IN THE USE PHASE OF MATERIALS IN THE ALUMINIUM INDUSTRY

Ever-scarcer resources, increasingly expensive raw materials and related political, social and economic challenges are leading to rising international attention on sustainability. Against this backdrop, more and more stakeholders in today’s economy are committing to sustainable solutions in production, trade and lifestyles. A conference on these topics provided a platform for critical dialogue and discussion on pragmatic solutions for the procurement of sustainable raw materials, the use of sustainable products in companies and the development of credible Corporate Social Responsibil

Cooperation opportunities discussed by a wide range of participants

Today, pioneers from all areas of society are discussing questions of where sustainability and cost-effectiveness become complementary over the long term. The future belongs to production processes that are kind to the environment, encourage human working conditions and protect biodiversity. The first International Conference on Sustainable Production, Trade, Consumption and Lifestyle was organised by the CSCP in partnership with Nürnberg Messe and ISEAL Alliance. The event served as an innovative market and communication platform to shape the future of Sustainable Consumption and Production.

The spectrum of topics discussed during the conference ranged from current market developments and the competitiveness of sustainable products and services to solutions for future-oriented cooperation between official and non-governmental organisations and companies. The conference targeted manufacturers as well as buyers, product managers and procurement managers for consumer goods and services. International and national trade promotion organizations, CSR managers, scientists and researchers were also in attendance to enrich the discussion.

A special focus on Transparency and Labelling

The conference discussion focussed in particular on the question of how sustainability can be ‘verified’, particularly in terms of credible and comprehensible standards. Participants and speakers also debated the questions of increased transparency through certification and labelling systems. The latest developments in this field were discussed and the innovation potential of various approaches was presented based on specific examples and business models.

Background

The conference was held in Nürnberg, Germany on February 17 and 18, 2009. The event was organised in partnership with Nürnberg Messe, ISEAL Alliance with support from the Union for Ethical Bio Trade, Expo Sustentat, Biotrade initiative, GENISIS Institute, Fairtrade Food and Agriculture Organisation, Forest Stewardship Council, Rainforest Alliance, Marine Stewardship Council and Social Accountability International. Mediap partners were Brand eins, Forum Nachhaltig Wirtschaften and oekom Verlag.