ASTA partnered with the Sustainable Spice Initiative (SSI) to offer an interactive three-part webinar series in spring 2024 on sustainability essentials, namely, how to define sustainability in the spice industry. The sessions address how sustainability is tied to the economic paradigm and the advantages of embracing sustainability, including its profound impact on financial performance and brand enhancement. The series explores insights into global and U.S. sustainability concerns and why and how ASTA members should prioritize sustainability as a risk management tool and regulatory compliance strategy and offer practical insights into navigating sustainability certifications and industry standards.

Webinar Part 1: General Introduction to Sustainability and Key Concepts presented by Jan Gilhuis with Sustainable Spices Initiative addressed: What is sustainability? How is sustainability connected to economics? Why sustainability is important? Global and U.S. sustainability concerns and their impacts. Environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they relate to each other. The advantages of embracing sustainability include improved financial performance. The business case for sustainability.

Part II - A Pathway to Sustainability for the American Spice Industry, presented by Kai Robertson, Senior Corporate Sustainability Advisor, addressed: Why should ASTA members care about sustainability? Sustainability as a risk management/mitigation tool. How sustainability can help with regulatory compliance – MRLs, heavy metal, forced labor, traceability, resilience. Sustainability as a differentiator – brand protection, brand building, storytelling, building customer and consumer intimacy. How can sustainability help attract and retain talent and improve organizational engagement levels? What can ASTA members do?

Part III – Putting Sustainability Into Practice: Certifications and Company Initiatives, was presented by Matthew Ford, Growth Sectors Account Manager, Rainforest Alliance, Daniel Montes, Business Development Executive, Control Union, and Amber Sciligo, Director of Science Programs, The Organic Center. This session addressed the following questions: What is the importance of sustainability certification and verification schemes? What are the most commonly used and recognized sustainability certifications, schemes, and frameworks? What are the commonalities and differences between organic and sustainability certifications and standards? How do you choose the sustainability certifications, standards, and schemes that fit your requirements and business model? Where and how can you start your sustainability journey?