Over 10 sessions discussed the circular economy, breaking away from fossil fuels and more.

The IPCC issued its most dire climate report earlier this week, calling it the “last chance” to save the planet.

So, it was perfect timing for Green Philly to host its third annual virtual symposium, Moving Forward, on Thursday, March 23rd.

It’s often about “progress over perfection” when we’re looking for climate solutions, as Candice Lawton of rePurpose Global remarked. The complexity of climate solutions – and potential setbacks – echoed throughout the day.

Can eco-innovation hurt otherwise good intentions? For example, take the newer food waste app, Too Good To Go. Some panelists raved about the delicious deals they find through local restaurant surplus at the end of their day. Other panelists and attendees raised questions about if participating restaurants have a reduction in food donations to those who are food-insecure, especially in a large city like Philadelphia.

Another case-in-point: the Inflation Reduction Act provides monetary and energy benefits to many homeowners. However, if a homeowner doesn’t “need” to upgrade an appliance, it may not make sense economically to purchase something new. Or, many renters are left out of the energy-reduction equation. How can landlords be incentivized to participate in these efforts?

Once we dig into the sustainability details, it often is complex and nuanced. Sure, we can take strides toward greener solutions, but there are frequently consequences. How can we mitigate those effects, equitably and fairly?

That’s why conversations like the ones we host in our virtual symposium are essential to have, especially with the people that are most engrained in the work and expertise.

If you want to catch the conversations, you can still purchase access to our virtual symposium to watch the recordings for 30 days.

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher