Turning the Dial 2024: Advancing Sustainability in WA’s Food and Beverage Sector
On May 30, 2024, I had the privilege of attending the Turning the Dial 2024 conference at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre. This flagship event, organized by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), brought together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore sustainable practices within Western Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector.
Among the key figures behind the event was Phil May from DPIRD, who played a crucial role in organizing Turning the Dial. Phil brings extensive experience in the wine industry, having previously worked as a wine exporter and a consultant for agricultural businesses across Western Australia. His deep understanding of the sector, combined with his passion for sustainability, was evident in the event’s strong focus on innovative and practical solutions for the industry.
Event Highlights:
-
Keynote Presentations: Over 20 thought leaders shared insights on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, sustainable packaging innovations, and strategies for food waste reduction.
-
Breakout Workshops: Interactive sessions allowed participants to delve deeper into topics such as circular economy solutions and sustainable business practices.
-
Exhibition Displays: Local businesses showcased cutting-edge technologies and sustainable solutions, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Networking and Collaborations:
During the conference, I had the opportunity to connect with vineyard farmers and representatives from the Sustainable Wine Association. These interactions provided valuable insights into sustainable viticulture practices and the challenges faced by the wine industry in reducing environmental impact.
A notable connection was with Dr. Jeremy Galbreath, Chief Strategy Officer for C4C Packaging, a company pioneering sustainable packaging solutions for Australia’s wine and Ready-to-Drink (RTD) products industries. Dr. Galbreath shared C4C’s collaboration with Tetra Pak to introduce a groundbreaking carton packaging production line, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional glass bottles and minimize glass waste.
Commitment to Sustainability:
Engaging with industry experts at Turning the Dial 2024 reinforced our commitment to integrating sustainable practices within our operations. Collaborations with organizations like C4C Packaging align with our goal to adopt innovative packaging solutions, thereby reducing our environmental footprint and contributing to a circular economy.
Looking Ahead:
Participating in events like Turning the Dial 2024 is instrumental in staying abreast of industry advancements and forging partnerships that drive sustainability. We look forward to implementing the insights gained and collaborating with like-minded organizations to promote sustainable practices within the food and beverage sector.
For more information on Turning the Dial and future events, visit the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s website.
