Inspiring presentations and lively networking were the order of the day as manufacturers and suppliers of cleaning and hygiene products, and colleagues in university and government, gathered for Accord’s second Cleaning and Hygiene Conference. Held 22 to 23 July at Monash University (Melbourne), the program focused on the challenges and opportunities for businesses in the cleaning and hygiene sector.
Accord’s Conference was held in collaboration with the Chemicals & Plastics Innovation Network, a partnership between Monash University, Industry and Victorian Government to promote collaboration between industry and academia. Delegates had the chance to tour the new state-of-the-art green chemical futures facility at Monash University and to mingle with some of the top minds in chemistry and chemical manufacturing over drinks and canapés.
At Thursday’s plenary session, key themes of innovation and collaboration in sustainable manufacturing were explored. Beginning with a ‘big picture’ view of the landscape in Australia and overseas, presenters honed in on specific niche innovations in sustainability such as plant-based feedstocks, enzyme, and preservative and food sanitiser technologies.
Highlights of the day included Andrew Jones from G2 Innovation on mega-trends and the pace of innovation; Professor Milton Hearn (associate director Green Chemical Futures and Industry lead scientist and director, Victorian Centre for Sustainable Chemical Manufacturing) on ‘Green and Sustainable Chemistry: what’s in it for your industry sector?’. Also Shannon Coombs (president, Canadian Consumer Specialty Products Association) provided insights from a Canadian perspective.
Accord would like to thank Monash University Chemistry and our valued associate member KPMG for providing its facilities; silver sponsors Ecolab and Novozymes; bronze sponsor Thor; and supporters True Blue Chemicals, d-labs and Huntsman for the generous support of this event.
Please see www.accord.asn.au/sustainability for sustainability initiatives, including the Recognised ecolabel for environmentally preferable commercial cleaning products.