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New BSR Conference 2011 Sessions Announced: Rebuilding Japan; Sustainability Storytelling; More

July 27, 2011

San Francisco—July 27, 2011—The newest sessions in the BSR Conference 2011 agenda examine how CSR initiatives are helping recovery efforts in Japan, how to tell a compelling sustainability story for maximum impact, and how to create fundamentally new business models that promote—and reward—sustainability. The Conference, taking place November 1 through 4 in San Francisco, focuses on the theme “Redefining Leadership.”

The latest sessions include:

Rebuilding Japan: A Sustainability Challenge

The devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan earlier this year left the country at an important inflection point. As Japan looks to “build back better,” there are many ways that sustainability principles can contribute to this effort, especially related to the country’s energy mix, the role of NGOs, and transparency. This session will feature Takashi Hatchoji, Hitachi’s Group Chairman for the Americas, former head of Hitachi’s Emergency Headquarters for post-earthquake reconstruction and redevelopment, and a member of BSR’s board of directors, in a dialogue with BSR President and CEO Aron Cramer. They will explore the lessons that Japanese companies are drawing from the disaster, and how these lessons are being applied to create a new wave of innovation for a more sustainable Japan.

Sustainability Storytelling: What Works and Why

It’s no longer enough to have a sustainability program; key stakeholders want to hear from and engage with companies. Crafting compelling CSR stories to share can help companies achieve maximum impact and collaboration with internal and external groups. But how is a story created and told in a way that sets one business apart from the competition and breaks through the noise? This session, featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edward Humes (Force of Nature: The Unlikely Story of Walmart’s Green Revolution), offers practical guidance and inspiration on how new stories, and the reframing of data and anecdotes, can lead to new values and new opportunities.

In Conversation With Colin le Duc of Generation Investment Management and Ian Yolles of Recyclebank

In a look at new business models that promote sustainability, Generation Investment Management Partner Colin le Duc will talk with Ian Yolles, the Chief Sustainability Officer of Recyclebank, which the Wall Street Journal recently ranked as the top U.S. clean-tech company. Le Duc will discuss why Generation has invested in Recyclebank, as an illustration of his firm’s investment strategy. Yolles will explore Recyclebank’s unique business model, which offers benefits to consumers, cities, and companies as they create systemic solutions that reduce environmental impacts while delivering solid financial returns. Their partnership illustrates one key tenet of redefined leadership—the creation of systemic solutions to tackle sustainability challenges.

Now in its 19th year, the BSR Conference is ranked at the top of corporate responsibility events globally and was recently named to Forbes’ “Executive Conferences Women CEOs Love Best” list. The BSR Conference 2011 will give participants the inspiration, tools, and connections needed to shape the future—and redefine leadership for their business.

To register and get updates on speakers, sessions, and more, visit www.bsr.org/conference.

Media may request a complimentary press pass to the BSR Conference 2011 from Communications Manager Eva Dienel at edienel@bsr.org.

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