8 October, 2024

From regulations to action: driving change in the soy sector

The RTRS International Conference 2024 will unite industry leaders and experts in a dynamic space for dialogue. Focused on Sessions 1 and 2, attendees will delve into EUDR implementation, the emerging regulatory landscape, and forward-thinking sectoral initiatives. This focus promises valuable insights to turn challenges into growth opportunities for the soy sector.

Taking place on November 19th and 20th at Oude Vismijn (Old Fishmine) in Ghent, Belgium, the conference, titled “Towards a Regenerative Transition,” presents a unique gathering point for industry professionals, producers, and researchers. Together, they will explore the evolving landscape of soy production and trade.

On the first day, five sessions will cover key topics, with Sessions 1 and 2 setting the stage:

In Session 1: The Emerging Regulatory Landscape for Soy, attendees will receive updates from the EU on EUDR implementation, including current status, key challenges, and potential opportunities. This session offers a comprehensive perspective on the regulatory shifts affecting the soy industry, alongside a chance for strategic Q&A.
Moderating the session is Melanie Faithfull Kent, CEO of Team Farner, a consultancy specializing in integrated communications. With her expertise, Melanie will guide participants through discussions on navigating EUDR implementation to harness opportunities for growth and sustainability.

 

The session’s speakers include:

Antonie Fountain, Founder and Director of Voice Network, who will cover the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and its role in enhancing transparency, along with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Green Claims: the new directives from the EU.

Karin Kreider, Executive Director at ISEAL Alliance, highlighting certification’s role in responding to evolving regulations and directives.

Bernhard Frey, Senior Sustainability Reporting Manager at EFRAG, sharing insights on how the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) affects soy-related sectors.

This session will also incorporate perspectives from stakeholders in the UK and China on the impacts of new directives on the soy sector:

Duncan Brack, an independent researcher at EFECA and Associate Fellow at Chatham House, will offer his insights on the UK’s regulatory landscape in the soy sector. Drawing from his expertise in environmental policy and sustainable sourcing, he will address the implications of the UK’s current approach to sustainable commodities, focusing on regulatory changes and their projected impact on soy trade.

Wei Si, Dean of the College of Economics and Management at China Agricultural University and Vice President of the Chinese Society of  Agro-technical Economics, will share his expertise on the implications of these regulatory shifts for the Chinese market. He also holds position as Scientist at the Industrial Economy Post of the National Soybean Industry System.

In Session 2: Sectoral Initiatives for Systems Change, speakers will focus on key sectoral initiatives emerging in response to EUDR compliance. This discussion will center on motivations, core components, and lessons learned, spotlighting how these initiatives foster systemic change beyond regulatory adherence.

This session is moderated by Petra Tanos, an independent consultant specializing in sustainability with significant experience across agriculture, food, and beverage industries. Featured speakers include:

Katrien D’hooghe, Managing Director of the Belgian Feed Association (BFA), who will discuss initiatives from the feed sector.

Wei Peng, Global Head of Sustainability for Grains & Oilseeds at Louis Dreyfus Company, addressing sustainability from a global supply chain perspective.

Olyn San Miguel, Business Development Manager at GMP+ International, a leader in animal feed safety certification, discussing certification’s role in systems change.

Roisin Mortimer, Global Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement Manager at COFCO, focusing on the Consumer Goods Forum’s Forest Positive Coalition Soy Roadmap and its role in advancing sustainable practices within the soy sector.

Luiz Pedro Poletti Bier, Vice President of Aprosoja Brazil representing Mato Grosso, speaking on Aprosoja’s sectoral strategies from the perspective of soy producers and how they are collectively addressing challenges and seizing opportunities for responsible soy.

Check the full agenda and confirmed speakers for other sessions.

Why attend?

  • Influence the strategic direction of responsible soy production.
  • Contribute to pivotal decisions impacting our collective journey.
  • Connect with industry experts and peers dedicated to sustainability.
  • Explore new technologies and innovations to drive us toward a sustainable future.
  • Engage in interactive discussions and real-time exchanges through polls, Q&A, and collaborative opportunities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the change. Register here.

 

This website uses cookies to make your browsing experience more efficient and enjoyable.
Take a look at our Privacy and Cookies Policy to learn more. If you click on "agree" we assume you are happy to allow the use of these cookies.