The Power of Green Conference 2009 offers a substantial program which includes the world’s most sought-after experts in business sustainability, leading CEOs, world-class environmentalists and respected policy experts.  They will offer their insights and global perspectives on opportunities through sustainable economic development.  The program includes a mix of keynote speeches and interactive panel sessions through which experts will share practical and meaningful insights. 

We will continue our focus on the "Business Case for Sustainability."  Implementing sustainable practices is not only socially responsible, it can lead to cost savings, greater innovation and productivity, new market opportunities, employee engagement and enhanced competitiveness.  We recognize organizations want to keep the environment as a priority while they face challenging economic circumstances.  Presentations will be highly practical, as concrete steps taken by one organization have the potential to benefit others in different sectors.  Organizations can benefit in the short-term from greater efficiency, and emerge more innovative and better positioned to meet new opportunities.

Last year, nearly 400 delegates attended to hear international and local CEOs and other experts offer their perspectives on the crucial "environment-economy" link.  Delegates heard from world-renowned environmentalist Lester Brown, the Chief Operating Officer of RBC, the CEO of Home Depot for Canada and Asia, and numerous engaging panelists.  In a post-event survey, 91 per cent of respondents said the event met or exceeded their expectations.  About 80 per cent or more of respondents said that, as a result of attending the conference, they were encouraged to implement sustainable practices in their organizations, communities and homes.  In addition, 83 per cent said they were encouraged to implement new practices and projects in their organizations.  

A primary objective of the conference is to engage all stakeholders in the sustainable prosperity agenda.  The conference supports the priorities in the cross-government economic growth strategy, Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity.  As well, Nova Scotia is one of only a few provinces in Canada that has established environmental and sustainability goals directly in law through the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act.  Active engagement by a broad range of stakeholders reinforces the idea that sustainability is a collective responsibility.


Audience
Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in our work, homes and communities.  The conference appeals to a wide audience, including the following:

Business Professionals
Through a focus on the `Business Case for Sustainability,`` speakers will demonstrate the beneficial impacts of sustainability on the bottom line.  Many CEOs, environmental experts and others will share their expertise through presentations and discussion.  Networking sessions allow for expanding connections and identifying resources. 

Government Officials
Representatives from federal, provincial and municipal governments will all find value in the Power of Green Conference.  The Province’s sustainable prosperity agenda has commitment at the highest levels, involving Deputy Ministers, senior officials and interdepartmental groups.  The program will address policy alternatives in sustainable prosperity, while showing how smart regulation and effective policy can support the economy and environment in tandem.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
These organizations play a valued role in advancing sustainability objectives.  Representatives of NGOs active in various aspects of sustainability will find the conference program offers valuable content.  Special rates are available for NGOs and other relevant not-for-profit organizations.   

Communities
Leadership in communities across the province is resulting in notable achievements in sustainability.  Their efforts contribute to community engagement, capacity building and preservation of our natural assets.  We hope to see community leaders and representatives from throughout Nova Scotia at the event.  

Academic Faculty and Staff 
Educational institutions in the province are demonstrating impressive leadership in sustainability through programs, research, infrastructure and partnerships.  Faculty and staff are encouraged to be part of this event and share their experiences and insights.   

Students
Students in virtually every discipline should consider attending the conference.  The role of youth in pursuing sustainability is a fundamentally important one.  Having future leaders participate will enable them to take part in the discussion of key issues, and contribute to identifying creative and innovative solutions.