This is Part I of ASTA's Sustainability 101 Webinar Series.

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. It also offers practical insights into navigating sustainability certifications and industry standards. 

Part I - General Introduction to Sustainability and Key Concepts presented by Jan Gilhuis with Sustainable Spices Initiative addresses: 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.