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Newest BSR Conference Sessions Focus on Conflict Minerals, Rebuilding Japan, and the Global Water Crisis

September 14, 2011

San Francisco—September 14, 2011—The latest BSR Conference 2011 sessions highlight compelling issues in sustainability today: how companies can address the challenge of using minerals that come from conflict mines, the opportunity for Japan to “build back better” after its tsunami and earthquake, and how companies can use the power of the market to solve the worldwide water crisis.

The Conference, “Redefining Leadership,” takes place November 1 through 4 in San Francisco. The advance registration opportunity—the last chance to receive a registration discount—ends September 15.

The newest sessions include:

Rebuilding Japan: A Sustainability Challenge

The devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan 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.

Conflict Minerals: Cleaning the Supply Chain and Solving the Problem?

Over the past two years, a few industries have become more proactive in addressing the challenge of using minerals that come from conflict mines, even as a broad range of companies begin to face reporting requirements. The question remains how best to go about integrating this issue into supply chain sustainability programs and gather needed information, no matter where a company sits in the supply chain. This session will use specific industry case studies in a workshop format to lay out some of the challenges that companies face and how they might develop solutions.

Global Water Crisis Solutions: Moving From Charity to Catalytic Philanthropy

Global water access and sanitation are among the world’s most urgent crises. Every day, millions of people have to walk miles, wait hours, and pay unreasonable prices to secure water for their families. Join Gary White of Water.org for a conversation about the organization’s ambitious vision and how partnerships at all levels can help realize the day when everyone can access and drink clean water, and experience the dignity of a toilet. White will discuss solutions that harness market forces, use philanthropy as a catalyst, and help those living in poverty to channel their intrinsic power and resources to participate in the process.

Now in its 19th year, the BSR Conference is ranked at the top of corporate responsibility events globally. 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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