Beginning this fall, the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) will roll out a series of sustainability-focused educational offerings that will continue through 2026.
The aim is to provide organizations with resources and insights they need to implement sustainability initiatives in ways that best align with their priorities and capacity.
Feedback obtained during SEPC’s webinar earlier this year, “Sustainability Essentials,” served as the foundation for creating SEPC’s programming, based on sustainability topics members identified as being most relevant.
John Barnette, senior director of produce and floral category management at Southeastern Grocers, is co-chair of SEPC’s sustainability committee, along with co-chair Adam Brady, director of marketing for Shuman Farms.
“By focusing on practical, applicable knowledge and tools, we aim to equip our members – and the broader industry – with the insights they need to drive meaningful progress, both environmentally and economically,” Barnette said.
A webinar on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) will be held Aug. 27 in preparation for upcoming retailer policies requiring third-party IPM certification for suppliers. These new requirements are set to take effect at the end of 2025.
The IPM Institute will provide an overview of integrated pest management practices, highlight certification options that meet the new standards and offer insight into the rationale behind these changes – from a national and global perspective.
In addition, two SEPC member companies will share how they’ve implemented IPM practices and the impact they have had on their operations.
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A panel, “Why Sustainability is Good for Business,” will be held Sept 11 during Southern Innovations, SEPC’s innovation-driven trade show and conference.
The session’s goal is to share real-world examples of how sustainability can drive business value, with representation from across the supply chain – including retail, packaging, waste and grower/shipper.
Later in the fall, a Sustainable Packaging webinar is set for Oct. 28, providing practical tools and guidance on a topic that remains a top priority for many fresh produce companies.
The educational series continues in 2026 with in-person and virtual offerings on topics ranging from food loss and waste reduction, to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and carbon reduction and regenerative agriculture.
“The meaning of sustainability has evolved significantly in recent years across our industry. While global reporting frameworks continue to shift, the practical impact of sustainability remains very real for our members – and it continues to be a priority for many retailers,” said David Sherrod, SEPC president and CEO.
“That’s why we’re proud to launch this education series at a time when companies are seeking relevant, actionable tools and information to support their sustainability efforts in meaningful ways.”