Diverse Groups Working on Sustainability

The community of people who care about our food supply is growing by leaps and bounds. I think we are approaching an important "tipping point." Over the past few weeks I’ve had the pleasure of speaking to two groups of people who one might not traditionally think of as food activists.

The first was Net Impact – MBA students and professionals interested in using the power of business to make a positive net social, environmental, and economic impact. It was refreshing to hear traditional business people ask questions about transparency, CSR reporting, and sustainability as a business differentiator. I spoke on a panel entitled "The Future of CSR" alongside representatives from Starbucks and Office Depot.

Then, this past weekend I gave the keynote at the National Catholic Rural Life Conference in Kansas City. What an interesting and inspiring group of people! The attendees included farmers and clergy all working on social justice issues related to farming. I came home with "goodies" to share around the office including a soulful piece written by farmer Tom Giessel about why he believes in family farms. Download family_farms.pdf I also received materials from a Reverend with Michigan Interfaith Power & Light, a coalition of congregations and their partners across the State of Michigan whose mission is to "involve communities of faith as stewards of God’s creation by promoting and implementing energy efficiency, renewable energy and related sustainable practices". Very interesting! I had no idea that the Catholic church was doing this type of work.

I returned to the Bon Appetit offices knowing that we aren’t alone in caring about food issues. We’re part of an important network working for truly global change. That’s a great feeling!

– Maisie Ganzler, Director of Communications & Strategic Initiatives