The Going Green Summit: A Pinnacle of Sustainability Advocacy
In a resounding celebration of sustainability, the inaugural Going Green Summit convened a vibrant tapestry of participants, all committed to fostering a more eco-conscious world. This momentous event, a harmonious collaboration between dynamic partners, aimed to create a platform where innovative ideas, collaborative efforts, and tangible strategies could flourish.
The inaugural Going Green and Going Smart Annual Summit was an extraordinary gathering that united individuals, businesses, and organizations in a shared pursuit of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Hosted by a collaboration of visionary partners, this event aimed to provide a platform for meaningful discussions, education, and networking centered around the themes of sustainability and eco-conscious practices.
Key Topics and Speakers
The summit featured a diverse range of topics, all woven together by the common thread of sustainability. From insightful panel discussions on sustainable business practices and collaborative community efforts to workshops on energy efficiency and eco-friendly strategies, attendees were treated to an array of informative sessions. Notably, the “Sustainable Practices for Small Businesses” panel discussion highlighted the interconnectedness of people, profit, and planet in the pursuit of holistic sustainability. Esteemed panelists, including Charlene Saltz from APS, Dr. Donna Jagielski from the AZ Sustainability Alliance, Stephanie Vasquez of Fair Trade Café, and Dr. Matthew Whitaker from the Carver Museum, shared their expertise and experiences, fostering dialogue on the potential of sustainable practices for both businesses and communities.

A Multifaceted Approach to Sustainability
The summit was a prime example of how diverse perspectives and insights can contribute to a more sustainable future. With representatives from local organizations, government bodies, fellow entrepreneurs, and sustainability experts, attendees were exposed to a rich tapestry of ideas and solutions. The participation of esteemed sponsors, including Arizona Public Service (APS), the Carver Museum, and Compass CBS, underscored the commitment of these entities to driving positive change through collective action. We are grateful to APS and Carver for helping us make the first annual going green summit possible!
Collecting Arizona Sustainability Resources
One of the most compelling aspects of the summit was the compilation of a wealth of Arizona-specific sustainability resources in a single space. From expert insights to practical tools and case studies, attendees were able to tap into a repository of knowledge tailored to the local context. This inclusive approach encouraged attendees to explore innovative ways of integrating sustainable practices into their daily lives and business operations.
In a world where information is abundant yet dispersed, the summit became a veritable treasure trove of Arizona-specific sustainability resources. Attendees could access an anthology of insights, tools, and real-life case studies tailor-made for the local landscape. This consolidation of knowledge-empowered participants to embark on a journey of redefining their business strategies, personal practices, and collective efforts to embrace sustainability.
Don’t miss this enlightening interview with Ted Geisler, President of Arizona Public Service (APS), as he discusses the pivotal role APS plays in fostering sustainable practices within the community. Learn how the Going Green Summit serves as a dynamic platform for APS to connect with the community, sharing insights, initiatives, and collaborative efforts for a greener future. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore APS’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Special thanks to all our partners who helped put on our first Going Green Summit:
- Arizona Sustainability Alliance
- City of Phoenix Zero Waste
- Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
- GreenLight Solutions
- Keep PHX Beautiful
- StartUP PHX
- Better Business
- AZ Climate Conversations
- AZ Humanities
- Arizona Small Business Association
- Chicanos Polla Causa
- Arizona Public Service
- Inclusive Prosperity Capital
- Growth Partners Arizona
- Wildfire Nature
- Fair Trade Cafe
- Dos Chris
Propelling Forward with the Going Green & Going Smart Program
As the curtain fell on the going green summit, the momentum of sustainability didn’t wane; rather, it evolved. Attendees were invited to participate in the transformative Going Green & Going Smart program. This comprehensive course offers participants the invaluable tools and wisdom required to cultivate a sustainable business model. By completing the course and earning a certificate of sustainability, businesses unlock an array of benefits. Not only can they streamline operational costs, but they also demonstrate a tangible commitment to environmental stewardship. Furthermore, businesses armed with the insights from the course can attract like-minded customers who value conscious consumption, thereby fostering a virtuous cycle of growth, environmental preservation, and economic prosperity.
The inaugural Going Green Summit illuminated the immense potential of collective action, collaborative learning, and shared goals. The summit reaffirmed that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a compass guiding us towards a more equitable, responsible, and harmonious world. As we reflect on the trailblazing moments of this summit, we stand poised on the precipice of endless possibilities, where every step towards sustainability leaves an indelible mark on our communities, businesses, and planet.