Please see below for session titles, leads, and a brief summary of the content that will be presented at the symposium. Full descriptions will be provided to registrants in advance of the event.

Attendees will have two tracks with six sessions in total to choose from being led by content experts, leaders in their fields, and regional and national organizations, covering a range of topics that span technical engineering, innovative financing, and community-driven equity practices.

Tickets are available starting at $50 for virtual tickets, $60 for Young Professionals (under 35), $90 for non-profit & government employees, $125 for SBN & GSI Partners members, and $155 for General Admission. We invite you to join us and to get a glimpse of our agenda by exploring the sessions and tracks detailed below.

Schedule:

9:00-9:50 AM: Breakfast
Continental style options, coffee & tea (available all day)

10:00-10:10 AM: Opening Remarks

10:10-11:00 am: Opening Plenary
Beyond Traditional Procurement: The Community-Based Partnership Model for Equitable Green Stormwater Infrastructure at Scale

11:10-11:50 AM: Session #1

Track 1: Reframing Laurel Hill’s Legacy Landscape Through Regenerative, Climate-Resilient Green Burial Design
Track 2: Partnerships in Bloom: Financing a Resilient Community Reading Garden

12:00-12:50 PM: Lunch
Assorted sandwiches, salads, chips, desserts, and beverages

1:00-1:40 PM: Session #2

Track 1: Symbiotic Subsurface Bioretention: Integrating Structural Soil Cells and Modular Storage for Dual-Purpose Urban Greening
Track 2: Competency as Capacity: Developing the National Stormwater Workforce

1:50-2:30 PM: Session #3

Track 1: Right-of-Way Stormwater Projects in Tredyffrin Township
Track 2: Reclaiming Land, Growing Resilience: Overbrook Environmental Education Center’s Climate Adaptation Model

2:40-3:00 PM: Closing Remarks

3:00-4:00 PM: Closing Reception
Mini sandwiches, dips, and crudite, beer & wine, and non-alcoholic beverages

Please see below a list of the sessions and speakers that have been planned for this year’s symposium.

Opening Plenary: “Beyond Traditional Procurement: The Community-Based Partnership Model for Equitable Green Stormwater Infrastructure at Scale”

Speakers: Marco Finazzi, PE PMP, Program Director, CIS & Roland Jones, Market Director, CIS

Session Time: 10:10-11:00 AM

Description: Our symposium kicks off with an Opening Plenary that introduces the Community-Based Partnership (CBP), a transformative delivery model designed to scale green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) while addressing the convergence of climate change, aging infrastructure, and social inequities. Using the nation’s first CBP—the Clean Water Partnership (CWP) in Prince George’s County, MD—as a primary case study, presenters will demonstrate how this model overcomes traditional procurement barriers to accelerate urban greening and concentrate economic benefits locally. Since 2015, the CWP has successfully implemented $350 million in GSI through over 200 projects, significantly impacting the local economy: 79% of contracts were awarded to local, women, and minority-owned businesses (WMBE), and 52% of labor hours were performed by county residents, generating an estimated $655 million in local economic impact. Attendees will explore how this model, now expanded to regions including Seattle and Chicago, empowers communities to solve complex stormwater challenges while driving long-term workforce development and climate resilience.

About the Speakers

Marco Finazzi, PE, PMP
Program Director
CIS

Marco Finazzi is a Program Director at CIS, responsible for leading a Community-Based Partnership with the Stormwater Authority of Chester, Pennsylvania and supporting program operations nationwide. He brings over a decade of experience advancing water and wastewater infrastructure improvements, watershed planning, flood resilience initiatives, and stormwater management solutions across North America. A licensed Professional Engineer in multiple states and a certified Project Management Professional, Mr. Finazzi combines strong technical knowledge with strategic program leadership to support effective implementation and long term community outcomes. He holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Columbia University, and a Bachelor and Master of Science in Environmental Engineering from University of Brescia, Italy.

Roland Jones
Market Director
CIS

Roland Jones is the Market Director at CIS and serves as the Program Director for the Clean Water Partnership with Prince George’s County, Maryland, the first Community-Based Partnership in the nation. In this role, he oversees program delivery, stakeholder engagement, and coordination across multidisciplinary teams. Mr. Jones brings decades of leadership experience in public sector procurement, having served as Chief Procurement Officer for Prince George’s County, Director of Strategic Sourcing at the University of Maryland College Park, and Director of Procurement & Contract Management for the Maryland Department of Environment. Before entering the public sector, he built a strong professional foundation through roles at several Fortune 500 companies. A nationally recognized leader in supplier development and diversity, he is Chairperson Emeritus of the Capital Region Minority Supplier Development Council and remains active in community organizations. Mr. Jones holds a Master of Science in Procurement and Contract Management and a Bachelor of Arts in the Administration of Justice.

Track 1: Urban Greening Management: New Approaches, Stewardship, and Maintenance

Reframing Laurel Hill’s Legacy Landscape Through Regenerative, Climate-Resilient Green Burial Design

Speakers: Karen Steenhoudt, RLA, Lead Landscape Architect, Land+, LLC & Nancy Goldenberg, Hon. ASLA, President & CEO, Laurel Hill Cemeteries & Laurel Hill Funeral Home

Session Time: 11:10-11:50 AM

Description: Once a traditional 19th-century landmark, Philadelphia’s 287-acre Laurel Hill Cemetery is undergoing a profound paradigm shift toward eco-sensitive, regenerative burial practices. This session explores how the cemetery is transforming its historic manicured lawn-scape into a climate-resilient “living landscape” through the integration of native meadows, memorial tree groves, and repurposed urban wood. By prioritizing natural burial methods over high-carbon conventional practices and expanding pedestrian-focused infrastructure, Laurel Hill has evolved into a vital community sanctuary and an educator in land stewardship. Attendees will discover how these sustainable transformations foster deeper connections between people and nature, creating a social and ecological asset that ensures the cemetery’s relevance for generations to come.

About the Speakers

Karen Steenhoudt, RLA
Lead Landscape Architect
Land+, LLC

Karen Steenhoudt, RLA, is a registered landscape architect and Principal at Land+ LLC, where her work focuses on ecological design for public spaces. Her portfolio spans public gardens, cemeteries, and zoological landscapes, with an emphasis on habitat restoration, climate resilience, and long-term stewardship of cultural landscapes. Karen serves as a board member and volunteer at the Delaware Botanic Gardens, where she contributed to the Inland Dunes Habitat Garden and the Living Shoreline Project, an award-winning initiative that integrates native ecology, green infrastructure, and public engagement. She is licensed in Delaware and Pennsylvania and holds master’s degrees in Bioscience Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Landscape Architecture.

Nancy Goldenberg, Hon. ASLA
President & CEO
Laurel Hill Cemeteries & Laurel Hill Funeral Home

Nancy Goldenberg is the President & CEO of Laurel Hill Cemeteries & Laurel Hill Funeral Home, responsible for ensuring that the historic properties remain premier cultural and educational destinations and national leaders in the evolving death care industry.

Prior to joining Laurel Hill, Nancy served for 20 years in multiple executive positions at the Center City District, Philadelphia’s premier downtown business improvement district, planning and managing many high-profile public space capital improvement projects, including the renovation of the Rail Park, Sister Cities Park, Collins Park and Dilworth Park.  She also served as Chief of Staff for the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Program Manager for Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park Commission, and Assistant Township Manager for Lower Merion Township, PA.

A native of Cincinnati, Nancy has a B.A. from George Washington University and Master’s Degree in City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania. She is a board member of the Pennsylvania Cemeteries Cremation and Funeral Association, the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia, and serves on the Cemeteries Committee of World Urban Parks, an international organization working to improve urban open spaces world-wide. Nancy is also a member of Greater Philadelphia Gardens and co-chairs PA Gardens, a statewide network of public horticulture entities that amplifies the collective voice and impact of Pennsylvania’s public horticulture organizations.  She is an emeritus board member of the Fairmount Park Conservancy and previously chaired the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commission, the Philadelphia Cultural Fund, and co-chaired the City Parks Alliance. Nancy is most proud of being a founder of the Philadelphia Outward Bound School and an Honorary Member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, a lifetime achievement and among the highest honors that organization confers.

Symbiotic Subsurface Bioretention: Integrating Structural Soil Cells and Modular Storage for Dual-Purpose Urban Greening

Speaker: Steve Shiffer, PE, Engineered Solutions Specialist, Ferguson Waterworks & Rob Woodman, PE, NGICP, CPESC, LEED Green Associate, Director, Engineering & Green Stormwater Infrastructure, Ferguson Waterworks

Session Time: 1:00-1:40 PM

Description: This session introduces a cutting-edge conceptual model for urban greening that integrates structural soil cell technology with high-capacity modular stormwater storage to achieve dual-benefit climate resilience. By moving beyond siloed subsurface designs, this symbiotic approach creates un-compacted root zones that are passively irrigated by captured runoff, simultaneously supporting robust canopy growth and large-volume stormwater retention. Attendees will explore the engineering and environmental potential of combining systems—such as R-Tank Modular Units and UrbanForest soil cells—to maximize space efficiency beneath urban hardscapes while enhancing GSI performance through decentralized infiltration and peak flow reduction. Designed for civil engineers, landscape architects, and urban foresters, this presentation demonstrates how to unlock the full potential of nature-based solutions to deliver healthier, longer-living tree canopies and superior water management in dense, space-constrained environments.

About the Speakers

Steve Shiffer, PE
Engineered Solutions Specialist
Ferguson Waterworks

Mr. Shiffer brings over 12 years of experience in site civil development and green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) projects across both the private and public sectors in the greater Philadelphia region. His previous work involved designing and managing GSI projects as a consultant for the Philadelphia Water Department, one of the nation’s leading GSI programs, where he gained extensive expertise in innovative stormwater solutions. In his current role as an Engineered Solutions Specialist, Mr. Shiffer collaborates with engineers and designers throughout the greater Philadelphia area and the Chesapeake Bay Watershed to develop high-performing, sustainable stormwater solutions. He is committed to advancing green infiltration practices where appropriate, supporting the broader goal of achieving environmental, social, and economic benefits through resilient water management strategies.

Rob Woodman, PE, NGICP, CPESC, LEED Green Associate
Director, Engineering & Green Stormwater Infrastructure
Ferguson Waterworks

Mr. Woodman has more than 19 years of experience on a wide variety of engineering and site\civil development projects for private and public sector clients. In his current role as Director of Engineering & Green Stormwater Infrastructure at Ferguson Enterprises, Mr. Woodman strategically leads the business development and technical engineering and design support effort for the company throughout the US with regard to the implementation of innovative, sustainable and high performance stormwater management technologies for clients in the public, private and non-profit sectors from concept design through to value-engineering solutions. Mr. Woodman supports engineers and landscape architects across the country on a variety of challenging stormwater sites.

Right-of-Way Stormwater Projects in Tredyffrin Township

Speaker: Daniel Wible, Water Resources Engineer, Jacobs; Stephen Burgo,

Session Time: 1:50-2:30 PM

Description: This session explores Tredyffrin Township’s proactive, twenty-year journey in implementing green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) within the public right-of-way to address the dual challenges of aging infrastructure and intensifying rainfall. Guided by a comprehensive four-pronged strategy—improving water quality, reducing flooding, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring regulatory compliance—the presentation details the lifecycle of three recent residential projects, from grant acquisition and concept development to construction and monitoring. Attendees will learn how the Township leverages community input via its Citizens Advisory Task Force to transform flood-prone streets into climate-resilient landscapes that protect local watersheds. By sharing critical lessons learned and scalable design approaches, this session provides a practical framework for municipalities aiming to integrate high-performance GSI into established suburban environments.

About the Speakers

Daniel Wilbe
Water Resources Engineer
Jacobs

Daniel has over 25 years of experience in the advancement and design of innovative stormwater Best Management Practices and Green Stormwater Infrastructure. He has contributed to numerous stormwater projects for local municipalities and cities such as Tredyffrin Township, Radnor Township, Philadelphia, Chester, West Chester, Lancaster, and Harrisburg, as well as other cities such as Pittsburgh, New York, Newark, Boston, Syracuse, Atlanta, and San Diego. He has served as a senior technical consultant on several large-scale Green Stormwater Infrastructure implementation programs, most notably Onondaga County, NY’s Save the Rain Program and the City of Lancaster, PA’s green infrastructure program, and has contributed to various stormwater management manuals, guidance documents, and industry publications.

Stephen Burgo
Township Engineer
Tredyffrin Township

Biography coming soon!

Track 2: Funding & Financing Funding and Financing Opportunities for Community Greening & Water Infrastructure

Partnerships in Bloom: Financing a Resilient Community Reading Garden

Speakers: Le Xu, Innovation Director, SALT Design Studio; Sara Pevaroff Schuh, Principal, SALT Design Studio; Kimberly Leichtner & Stephanie Tomei, Co-Chairs, Penn Wynne Library Community Reading Garden; Kate Cronin, Owner, Oakleaf Ecological

Session Time: 11:10 AM-11:50 AM

Description: This session highlights the Penn Wynne Library Reading Garden as a powerful, replicable model for how neighborhood-led mobilization can transform underutilized land into high-impact social and ecological assets. Attendees will explore how a small group of volunteers leveraged strategic storytelling, inclusive design, and multi-stakeholder partnerships to raise over $400,000 for a resilient, community-focused sanctuary. By prioritizing transparency and diverse engagement—ranging from online surveys to localized storytelling—the project successfully integrated native greening and climate resilience into a beloved neighborhood hub. The presentation will share scalable fundraising strategies and leadership approaches that empower communities to navigate common hurdles and turn modest urban sites into meaningful public spaces that foster long-term stewardship and environmental health.

About the Speakers

Sara Pevaroff Schuh
Founder & Principal
Meliora Design

Sara Pevaroff Schuh is founder of SALT Design Studio, an award-winning, woman-owned landscape architecture practice focused on connecting people to place through design, tapping into community engagement as a catalyst for action. Applying sustainable strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change and leveraging the landscape as a teaching tool is a hallmark of Sara’s practice. She has 30 years of experience with master planning and design for public parks, secondary schools, college campuses, streetscapes, and urban centers across the country. As a recognized expert in the field, her work has garnered awards and been exhibited as models for social impact and ecological design. Sara lectures frequently on urban design, professional practice and community engagement to school groups and non-profit organizations, and serves on design juries. She holds a Master of Landscape Architecture from University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science in Political Communication from The University of Texas.

Le Xu
Innovation Director
SALT Design Studio

Le (Cindy) Xu, PLA is a licensed landscape architect and Innovation Director at SALT Design Studio. With a background spanning landscape architecture, planning, environmental design, and product design, she brings an international, interdisciplinary lens to creating landscapes that are visually compelling, functional, and equitable. Her portfolio ranges from schoolyards and cultural landmarks to national park master plans, corporate campuses, public art spaces, and higher education landscapes, with several projects recognized through LEED certifications. Beyond professional practice, Le frequently serves on design juries and participates in workshops at the University of Pennsylvania, and this year, is an invited juror for the 2025 Arizona ASLA Awards and 2026 Connecticut ASLA Awards. She is also deeply engaged in community work, volunteering as a translator and facilitator for engagement efforts in Philadelphia’s Chinatown. Le holds a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Arts from Tongji University.

Kimberly Leichtner
Program Manager
The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

Kim Leichtner’s professional experiences are in nonprofit management and leadership development. She’s a Program Manager with the Lipman Family Prize at the University of Pennsylvania, managing the relationships between global prize-winning nonprofit organizations and the university. As a trained facilitator, she moderates civic dialogues with undergraduate students from across Pennsylvania and adults through Keystone Civic Ventures. She’s also been a High Performing Team Facilitator for Wharton undergraduates, observing and coaching them on effective teamwork.

Kim enjoys volunteering in her community and served on the board of the Penn Wynne Library Association from 2018-2024. She joined the board as a co-treasurer and stepped up to be co-president during the COVID-19 pandemic to help the board meet its essential fundraising goals. She currently co-chairs the PWLA Community Reading Garden project. Kim holds a BA from Harvard College and a MPA from Penn’s Fels Institute of Government.

Stephanie Tomei
Public Relations/Communications Consultant
Former President and Board Member of the Penn Wynne Library Association; Co-Chair of the Community Reading Garden Committee

Stephanie has spent her professional career leading PR and communications efforts in both agency and corporate settings in the healthcare field. She currently works as a PR consultant supporting medical start-ups and societies. Outside of work, Stephanie is a passionate community volunteer and provides pro-bono PR support for local non-profit organizations. She served six years on the Board of the Penn Wynne Library Association (PWLA) in the roles of co-president, secretary and as the PWLA representative on the Lower Merion Library System Board of Directors. She served on the Boards of the Penn Wynne Civic Association and local Home and School Associations. She currently serves on the InterSchool Council and Co-Chairs the PWLA Community Reading Garden project. Stephanie has degrees in Public Relations & International Studies from the Pennsylvania State University, as well as a Spanish minor studying at the University of Salamanca.

Kate Cronin
Owner
Oakleaf Environmental

Kate Cronin is the owner of Oakleaf Ecological, where she blends stewardship with the creation of beautiful, dynamic spaces. Her work has been featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer for utilizing native garden design in small settings. Kate previously worked at Riverbend Environmental Education Center and Wissahickon Charter School, where she and her students cultivated a school garden. Kate serves on the Penn Wynne Library Association Board as co-chair for development of the Community Reading Garden. Kate holds a BA from Drexel University.

Competency as Capacity: Developing the National Stormwater Workforce

Speakers: Kaitie Evers, Stormwater and Watershed Training Coordinator, Center for Watershed Protection; Ian Ross, Industry Training-Programming, PowerCorps PHL

Session Time: 1:00-1:40 PM

Description: As urban areas accelerate the installation of green and gray infrastructure, a critical workforce gap has emerged in the capacity to operate and maintain these essential systems. This session explores how the Clean Water Certificate (CWC)—a nationally accredited, entry-level training program—addresses this challenge through strategic partnerships between municipal agencies, workforce organizations, and community-based instructors. Drawing on insights from a January 2026 literature review of national stormwater workforce trends, the presentation highlights competency-based training methods that reduce employment barriers and foster learner confidence through multi-modal instruction. Attendees will examine the operational requirements of maintaining an accredited program—balancing technical rigor with local relevance—and gain a roadmap for strengthening the workforce pipeline through regional modules and job task analysis.

About the Speakers

Kaitie Evers
Stormwater and Watershed Training Coordinator
Center for Watershed Protection

Kaitie Evers is a Stormwater and Watershed Training Coordinator with the Center for Watershed Protection, where she manages and delivers the nationally recognized Clean Water Certificate (CWC) program. Her work focuses on building workforce capacity in the stormwater and green infrastructure sector through professional training, instructor development, and strategic partnerships with municipalities, nonprofits, and industry leaders. Kaitie specializes in translating complex watershed science into practical, field-based learning experiences that support resilient communities and healthier waterways. She holds a B.S. in Plant Science from the University of Delaware and is passionate about environmental education, collaborative problem solving, and advancing sustainable stormwater management practices.

Ian Ross
Industry Training-Programming
PowerCorpsPHL

Ian Ross is the Industry Academy Team Lead at PowerCorpsPHL, where he has worked for 3.5 years. He oversees PCPHL’s workforce and technical trainings for the ‘Water Infrastructure and Land Management’ crews and Skilled Trades Academy.’ Ian also manages work order contracts with partners including the Philadelphia Water Department. Ian taught high school science for 5 years in Philadelphia and is currently studying for his arborist certification.

Reclaiming Land, Growing Resilience: Overbrook Environmental Education Center’s Climate Adaptation Model

Speakers: Michael Busch, Water Resources Engineer, Meliora Design; Jerome Shabazz, Executive Director & Founder, JASTECH Development Services, Inc; Tavis Dockwiller, Principal, Viridian Landscape Studio

Session Time: 1:50-2:30 PM

Description: This session explores the twenty-year transformation of West Philadelphia’s Overbrook Environmental Education Center (OEEC) from a derelict brownfield into a thriving model of community-led ecological restoration. Participants will examine OEEC’s sustained leadership in remediating environmental hazards, highlighted by two landmark initiatives: the recently completed Resilience Hub, which provides climate-adaptive shade and emergency solar power, and the Farmacy/NatureWorks Campus, a multifunctional green space currently breaking ground in 2026. By converting impervious auto yards into healing gardens, nature trails, and educational facilities, these projects demonstrate how strategic urban greening can strengthen neighborhood resilience and provide equitable access to nature-based solutions. Attendees will gain insights into how grassroots stewardship can effectively address public health and climate challenges in historically underserved urban corridors.

About the Speakers

Jerome Shabazz
Founder & Executive Director
JASTECH Development Services, Inc.

Jerome Shabazz is the founder and Executive Director of JASTECH Development Services, Inc., a notfor-profit organization developed in 1997, to promote environmental justice; encourage sustainable community development; and to promote public health in urban communities. In 2002, JASTECH established the Overbrook Environmental Education Center a community-based center dedicated to preserving the built and natural environments of Philadelphia.

Prior to working in the non-profit sector, Mr. Shabazz worked for 25 years at the Philadelphia Water Department and Philadelphia Gas Work in operations, engineering, and training. Mr. Shabazz is also an adjunct professor at Community College of Philadelphia. He is an active member of the PA Department of Environmental Protection’s – Citizen Advisory Council, Environmental Justice Advisory Board, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Board of Directors, and the EPA’s National Environmental Justice Advisory Council.

Michael Busch
Water Resources Engineer
Meliora Design

Michael Busch is a Water Resources Engineer with expertise in applying various hydraulic and hydrologic models to inform green infrastructure and flood reduction planning efforts and design projects. He has designed several large-scale flood reduction and green infrastructure projects that also provide ecological and community benefits.

Tavis Dockwiller
Principal
Viridian Landscape Studio®

Tavis Dockwiller, Principal, is the guiding influence for Viridian Landscape Studio®. Viridian heals ecological systems while making beautiful places for people. Tavis recognizes place-making as integral to the basic framework of society and understanding ecological systems as key to making place. Her work is built from an understanding of long-term strategy and strengthened by client investment in design. Tavis’ designs give people meaningful ways to engage with the environment – to play, learn and relax.

Closing Remarks

Closing Speaker to be announced soon.

Thank you to our Sponsors & Funders!

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Special thank you to this year’s funders! Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation. Additional support provided by the Essential Foundation and The Foundation for Pennsylvania’s Watersheds.

The post 2026 Achieving Climate Resilience Through Urban Greening Symposium – Agenda appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

Please see below a list of the presenters that will be speaking at this year’s Annual Meeting. 

See the agenda for Thursday evening’s program here:

6:00 PM – Registration Opens
Food & Drinks Available

6:45 PM – Welcome Remarks

6:55 PM – Panel Discussion with Special Guests
Judy Wicks, Leanne Krueger, Jamie Gauthier, Devi Ramkissoon

7:40 PM – Board Governance

7:50 PM – Triple Bottom Award Presentation

8:00 PM – Event Concludes

Opening Remarks

Nima Etemadi
Co-founder, Cake Life Bake Shop

Nima Etemadi grew up in Vancouver after his family immigrated from Iran. His upbringing as a first-generation North American shaped his food lens, together with a strong interest in both French cuisine and the foodways of the American South. He graduated from culinary school and worked in kitchens and catering before attending Sarah Lawrence College, where he met his best friend and future business partner, Lily Fischer.

After earning his degree, Etemadi worked as assistant editor at Aperture, a non-profit photography magazine and publishing house, but office life soon gave way to another round of culinary school – this time at the French Culinary Institute (now International Culinary Center) studying pastry arts.

In 2012, Etemadi moved to Philadelphia to found Cake Life Bake Shop with Fischer, first located in the Globe Dye Works building before moving to its flagship location in Fishtown. A proud transgender business owner, he hopes to see more members of the LGBTQ+ community start businesses of their own.

Marsha Levell
PolyMath Consulting, LLC

Marsha Levell, MBA, CSM, is the Principal of PolyMath Consulting, LLC, an executive coaching firm for small business owners and C-Suite level leaders.

She is the product of public-school education, graduating from Stuyvesant High School in NYC. She began her career with a stint in the federal government doing benefit analysis. From there, she spent over 25 years managing marketing, sales, and logistics operations in the publishing industry, higher education, and other businesses and sectors.

Meet SBN’s New Executive Director

Zoraida Cordero
SBN Executive Director

Zoraida Cordero, A U.S. Army veteran, civic educator, and macro social worker, has served in various roles spanning the government, nonprofit, and private sectors. During her time at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, she strengthened environmental equity through community involvement, public communication, and strategic partnerships. She also assisted with transforming local neighborhood spaces into hubs of opportunity through youth development and programming with Safe-Hub Philadelphia.

Zoraida holds a Master of Social Work from Temple University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Muhlenberg College. She teaches Civic Engagement at Drexel University and is a part of the Montgomery County Commission for Women. She appreciates a great book and loves spending time with her fiancée and fur babies.

As the new Executive Director of SBN, Zoraida vows to bring continued commitment to building thriving communities by advancing a just and green economy where sustainability, equity, and shared opportunity intersect. Her work is rooted in the belief that when people, communities, businesses, and the environment thrive together, we all rise.

Meet SBN’s Staff

Alex Cupo
Senior Manager, Climate Resilience Programs

Alex Cupo brings deep experience in community engagement, policy advocacy, and stormwater management. He joined SBN in 2020 after roles with AmeriCorps VISTA (City of Pittsburgh), PennFuture (Southeast PA Outreach), and Wissahickon Trails (Water Programs Coordinator), where he assisted homeowners and municipalities with green stormwater infrastructure best practices as well as leading a variety of programs, events planning, and advocacy efforts.

Alex holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies from the University of Pittsburgh, with a minor in Political Studies and a Global Studies certificate in Sustainable Development and Latin American history. 

Rebecca Nichols Franqui
Program and Membership Manager

Before joining SBN, Rebecca spent several years working with her family’s small business, pursuing its mission to be a more sustainability-minded member of the Philadelphia community. She helped enhance their commitment to sustainability through partnerships with like-minded businesses, engagement with community members, organizations, and civic associations, and company branding on recycling bins and reusable bags. Her previous experience includes working for her university’s sustainability department, spreading awareness for recycling e-waste, and as a programs coordinator for Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer Counties.

Rebecca received her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science at Pacific Lutheran University and has a Master’s Degree in Environment, Politics, and Globalization from King’s College London.

Ilene Stark
Sustainability Outreach and Engagement Fellow

Ilene recently graduated in May 2025 from the University of Maryland, with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy. While attending UMD, Ilene was the Sustainability Coordinator for the Residence Hall Association, as well as a Program Assistant for the Terp-to-Terp Campus Reuse Store.  She was also a member of Epsilon Eta, the Environmental Science and Sustainability fraternity.  In 2024, she had the opportunity to travel abroad on Semester at Sea, where she traveled to 10 different countries on 3 continents. There, she learned how to navigate different cultures, communicate with different people, and step outside of her comfort zone. This trip also grew her interest in outreach and engagement, something she has prior experience with as an intern at EARTHDAY.org. She hopes to apply all of her experience and knowledge she has gained to aid in SBN’s goal of helping businesses thrive while protecting the environment and surrounding communities.

In her free time, Ilene loves to thrift, scrapbook/collage, read, workout, and spend time with her 3 cats and rabbit. You can also find her working behind the counter at her family’s Rita’s Italian Ice franchise, which she’s been at for 9 years!

Outgoing and Incoming Board Members

Thank you to our Outgoing Board Members

Alisa Shargorodsky
Founder & Director, ECHO Systems

Jenn Richey Nicholas
Partner, Pixel Parlor

Jessica Hartley
Environmental, Health, Safety, Sustainability, and Community Relations Manager, Vicinity Energy

Welcome Incoming Board Members

Nick Ashburn
Founder & CEO, Calibrate
Host, The HomeEc Podcast

Nick Ashburn works at the intersection of sustainable finance, behavioral science, and technology, helping institutions design financial systems that better reflect real human decision-making that supports financial health and emotional well-being. Before founding the fintech company, Calibrate, Nick was a Managing Director and Head of Responsible Investing at PNC Bank’s Asset Management Group. He was a Senior Director at the Wharton Social Impact Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania, and he’s taught at Penn, Drexel, and the University of Texas-Austin. While at Wharton, he hosted “Dollars & Change” on SiriusXM’s Business Radio Channel and now hosts HomeEc, a podcast at the intersection of money, relationships, and mental health. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and is certified in financial therapy.

Lauren Mandel
Associate Principal and Director of Design & Innovation, Studio Sustena

Lauren is a Philadelphia-based landscape architect and partner at Studio Sustena (formerly called Roofmeadow), a WBE-certified landscape architecture and civil engineering firm. Since 2005, she contributed to the design of more than $100M of landscapes, including more than 70 green roofs, and founded three companies that connect people to nature. Her work—which integrates fringe solutions into professional practice—has been recognized through 12 professional awards and shared through her 30+ publications. Lauren writes for Landscape Architecture Magazine and authored EAT UP: The Inside Scoop on Rooftop Agriculture (New Society Publishers, 2013), the first full-length book about rooftop food production. She is an avid hiker and passionate about environmental resilience.

Marsha Levell
Principal, PolyMath Consulting, LLC

Panel Discussion Guests

Judy Wicks
SBN Founder

Author, activist, and retired entrepreneur, Judy Wicks founded Philadelphia’s landmark White Dog Cafe in 1983, helping spark the farm‑to‑table movement and setting a national model for sustainable business. She went on to launch Fair Food Philly, the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia, and cofound the national BALLE network (now Common Future). Judy later created the Circle of Aunts & Uncles micro‑loan fund and founded All Together Now PA to build resilient regional economies in the face of climate change. In 2023, she stepped back from organizational leadership as the initiative evolved into PA Fibershed, focused on sustainable textiles.

Her entrepreneurial roots stretch back to cofounding the Free People’s Store in 1970—later renamed Urban Outfitters—and opening the Black Cat in 1989, a fair‑trade and locally made gift shop. Judy’s decades of work have earned major national honors, including awards from the James Beard Foundation and the International Association of Culinary Professionals, and induction into the Innovators Walk of Fame.

After selling the White Dog Cafe, she published her award‑winning memoir Good Morning, Beautiful Business: The Unexpected Journey of an Activist Entrepreneur and Local Economy Pioneer in 2013. Now, Judy is channeling her energy into transforming her own backyard into a sustainable homestead and future community learning space.

Leanne Krueger
PA-State Representative (PA-161)
Past SBN Executive Director

State Representative Leanne Krueger represents Pennsylvania’s 161st Legislative District in Delaware County. Leanne made history in 2015 as the first woman to represent the district. A progressive champion and tireless advocate for women, school kids, the environment, and working families, Leanne was elected by her peers to serve on the House Majority Leadership team as House Democratic Caucus Administrator where she is the first woman to hold the office. She convenes the Blue Green Working Group and is a co-founder of the Climate Caucus. Leanne was the first woman to chair the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee, where she spent four and a half years working to flip control of the Chamber. 

Prior to elected office, Leanne served as the first Executive Director of the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN), and Senior Director of Strategy and Development at the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE), an organization which supported over 50,000 locally owned, independent businesses across the country to create a stronger, fairer economy. She has received local and national attention for her work in economic development and public policy.

Leanne holds an MBA in Urban Economic Development from Eastern University and a BA from Rutgers University. She is also a BALLE Fellow, a Senior Fellow of the Environmental Leadership Program and a 2009 Pennsylvania Fellow of the Center for Progressive Leadership.

The 161st District is comprised of Aston Township, Brookhaven Borough, Chester Township, Middletown Township (part),  Nether Providence Township, Ridley Township (part), Rose Valley Borough and Upland Borough. Leanne lives in Wallingford with her son Wendell.

Jamie Gauthier
Philadelphia City Councilmember, District 3
Past SBN Executive Director

Jamie R. Gauthier, City Councilmember for West and Southwest Philadelphia’s Third District and the only Philadelphia elected official with a planning degree, champions policies that protect long-term residents, expand affordable housing, strengthen public spaces, and advance environmental sustainability. Her leadership includes enacting the city’s first mandatory inclusionary zoning policy, helping create the Eviction Diversion Program, securing major investments for community resources like Sayre Pool, and supporting Community Land Trusts. She also launched the #JustServicesPHL campaign to improve quality‑of‑life services, has been a leading voice for a public‑health‑centered response to gun violence, and established the Philadelphia Reparations Task Force to develop proposals for Black Philadelphians whose ancestors endured slavery and Jim Crow.

Before joining City Council, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier served as Executive Director of the Fairmount Park Conservancy, where she carried out vital improvements in West Fairmount Park and organized stewardship and care for parks across the city. 

After graduating from Central High School, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier received an accounting degree from Temple University and her Master of City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania

Devi Ramkissoon
Chief Sustainability Officer, Montgomery County
Past SBN Executive Director

Devi Ramkissoon has 15+ years of experience in international development, specializing in working with sustainable businesses for economic growth and poverty reduction. An immigrant and social entrepreneur herself, Devi has worked tirelessly to advance the work of small businesses from underrepresented communities across Latin America, Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East. For nearly the past decade at USAID, she led multimillion dollar food security, environment, and private sector development projects around the world, managed the Agency’s premier knowledge-sharing platform for market development, and advanced the US Government’s sustainable development goals at multiple international market development fora. She has won numerous awards from the US Government and the private sector for her leadership navigating global humanitarian crises. She is now working as the Chief Sustainability Officer for Montgomery County. 

Devi holds a Master of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and English Literature from Swarthmore College.

Triple Bottom Champion Nominees

This year’s award winner will serve as SBN’s Triple Bottom Champion Ambassador, helping to amplify their commitment to sustainability and presenting next year’s award, will receive a complimentary year of free membership, and a certificate during this year’s Annual Members Meeting.

Feast Your Eyes is an experiential catering and events company grounded in the belief that exceptional hospitality has the power to uplift people and strengthen community. With a people centered culture, Feast makes sure every team member feels supported and valued. They are equally committed to environmental stewardship through local sourcing, seasonal menu development, food-waste reduction, composting partnerships, and continuous efforts to reduce our operational footprint across both our kitchen and on location at events.

Glitter was born from a simple idea: that everyone deserves to live on a clean, safe block—and that neighbors can come together to make that happen. Since 2021, Glitter has built a unique, pay-what-you-can model that pools small contributions from residents and businesses to fund weekly block cleaning. The service is delivered by local cleaners, many of whom face barriers to employment and are earning a living wage averaging $30/hour plus profit sharing. 

This model has allowed Glitter to clean thousands blocks and remove over 1,000,000 pounds of litter, while providing meaningful, dignified work for 34 Philadelphians—75% of whom face barriers to employment including being formerly incarcerated. They are proud to now serve over 1,400 active subscribers across 350 blocks, and are continuing to grow with new city partnerships and grant-funded projects in areas like Germantown, West Philly, and Northeast Philadelphia.

Glitter’s work directly contributes to all three pillars of the triple bottom line:

People: At our core we are helping neighbors come together to solve hyper local problems by building connection and community pride through collaboration.

Planet: By removing trash from our ecosystem we are preventing stormwater pollution and reducing environmental harm through regular block-level cleanups.

Profit (with purpose):  We prioritize equitable hiring and living wages as well as profit sharing to our whole team.

Strategy Arts is a planning and facilitation consulting firm with an emphasis on equitable community engagement. Since our founding in 2003 we have been guided by a set of principles centering humanity and being good stewards of the earth. When B Lab was established it gave a structure to our values and we became a founding B Corp and in 2019 a Best for the World honoree. We also had the honor of being part of the founding board of SBN and our Managing Partner, Elizabeth Guman, served as co-chair with Judy Wicks. 

Strategy Arts works directly with marginalized communities and the organizations serving them on many societal issues such as high rates of economic insecurity, food insecurity, disproportionate rates of infant and maternal mortality and morbidity, reentry issues and more. We know all too well that these disparities predominantly affect Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and that understanding root causes of these disparities is a requirement for changing the system.

To engage in this work we do extensive professional development, including unpacking internal bias for privileged identities and support and healing for marginalized identities. In our client work, we incorporate equitable practices relevant to the processes required for the project that range from ensuring marginalized voices are included through stakeholder engagement, incorporating equitable norms in meetings, training on equitable practices for clients and equity audits. We continue to develop a strong internal culture that values each of our team members through our policies and our collaborative working processes. Our latest project has been to learn about and incorporate self-governance practices to deepen our commitment to shared decision-making and power.

Solar States is a certified B-Corporation founded in 2008 with a dual-mission to install solar and educate the next generation. They take a triple-bottom-line approach to solar: People, Planet, and Profit.

PEOPLE: Solar States provides full healthcare, 401k, and profit-sharing to all employees—but more importantly, they build careers. In 2025, their Find Your Power program trained 100 students, employed 27 paid interns, and extended 8 full-time offers—up from 5 interns and 3 hires the year before. To date, they’ve trained 600+ people through partnerships with Philadelphia OIC, PowerCorpsPHL, and the Energy Coordinating Agency.

PLANET: Their 2,000+ installed systems have saved customers $15+ million in avoided electricity costs and kept millions of pounds of CO2 out of the atmosphere. Solar States makes solar accessible to ALL in our communities.

PROFIT: Seventeen years in business, driven by reputation and referrals. They avoid high-pressure sales tactics and instead find sensible solar+storage solutions for homeowners and businesses across the region.

PWPvideo (PWP) provides Video with a Mission. They are a boutique production company specializing in video and podcasting services to nonprofit organizations, sustainable businesses, and education agencies. From the founding in 2000, to their initial B Corp Certification in 2012, through today, PWP has been aligned with the organizations they serve. PWP uses their creative talents to help improve the lives of others through education and opportunity. Core values at PWP include deep sustainability practices and promoting volunteerism. In addition to their team volunteering annually on Martin Luther King Day and throughout the year, their company principals serve on nonprofit boards. 

What sets PWP apart from other companies is their combination of experience, instincts, and ability to thoroughly understand the organizations they serve. PWP knows that nonprofits have to stretch every creative dollar and, above all, serve the mission of the organization in the most effective way possible. They serve nonprofits, their staff has worked with nonprofits, it is a part of their culture and who they are as people. This experience enables PWP to produce media that enlightens and moves viewers by telling thoughtful and respectful stories of real people, while understanding pacing, visual interest, and purpose. PWP is built on courtesy, honesty, creativity, and successful communication. This recipe has led to them developing long-term client relationships with like-minded organizations.

Re:Vision was founded in 2002 to make a positive difference in the natural, built, and social environments. Today, Re:Vision is comprised of two studios in one LEED-certified building—an Architecture studio that designs sustainable projects and a Sustainability Consulting studio that supports other architects, owners, contractors, and organizations to  make their work and their companies more sustainable.

Sustainability is part of Re:Vision’s DNA and it shows in our portfolio of Zero Energy verified, Passive House certified, LEED Platinum, Living Building certified, and common-sense-green projects. Re:Vision has been recognized nationally and locally as sustainable design experts and thought leaders by leading organizations including the AIA, The New York Times, Metropolis Magazine, PHIUS, Living Future, and others.

With care for the impact of our business, Re:Vision has been a certified B Corporation since 2007 and Just labeled since 2021 to make transparent our social and environmental performance.

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors!

Thank You to our Annual Sponsors!

The post 25th Anniversary Annual Meeting Program appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

With SBN’s 2026 Annual Meeting coming up on Thursday, February 5, the Triple Bottom Champion Award returns, recognizing a business within SBN’s network that embodies the triple-bottom-line approach of being mindful of people, the planet, and profit.

This year’s award winner will serve as SBN’s Triple Bottom Champion Ambassador, helping to amplify their commitment to sustainability and presenting next year’s award, will receive a complimentary year of free membership, and a certificate during this year’s Annual Members Meeting.

Six outstanding local businesses are nominated for their positive environmental, social, and economic efforts over the last year. Voting is open to the public Monday, January 19 through Wednesday, January 28. The winner will be announced towards the close of the Annual Members Meeting, and there’s still time to register for the event, so please find tickets here.

Feast Your Eyes

Feast Your Eyes is an experiential catering and events company grounded in the belief that exceptional hospitality has the power to uplift people and strengthen community. With a people centered culture, Feast makes sure every team member feels supported and valued. They are equally committed to environmental stewardship through local sourcing, seasonal menu development, food-waste reduction, composting partnerships, and continuous efforts to reduce our operational footprint across both our kitchen and on location at events.

Glitter

Glitter was born from a simple idea: that everyone deserves to live on a clean, safe block—and that neighbors can come together to make that happen. Since 2021, Glitter has built a unique, pay-what-you-can model that pools small contributions from residents and businesses to fund weekly block cleaning. The service is delivered by local cleaners, many of whom face barriers to employment and are earning a living wage averaging $30/hour plus profit sharing. 

This model has allowed Glitter to clean thousands blocks and remove over 1,000,000 pounds of litter, while providing meaningful, dignified work for 34 Philadelphians—75% of whom face barriers to employment including being formerly incarcerated. They are proud to now serve over 1,400 active subscribers across 350 blocks, and are continuing to grow with new city partnerships and grant-funded projects in areas like Germantown, West Philly, and Northeast Philadelphia.

Glitter’s work directly contributes to all three pillars of the triple bottom line:

• People: At our core we are helping neighbors come together to solve hyper local problems by building connection and community pride through collaboration.
• Planet: By removing trash from our ecosystem we are preventing stormwater pollution and reducing environmental harm through regular block-level cleanups.
• Profit (with purpose):  We prioritize equitable hiring and living wages as well as profit sharing to our whole team.

PWPvideo

PWPvideo (PWP) provides Video with a Mission. They are a boutique production company specializing in video and podcasting services to nonprofit organizations, sustainable businesses, and education agencies. From the founding in 2000, to their initial B Corp Certification in 2012, through today, PWP has been aligned with the organizations they serve. PWP uses their creative talents to help improve the lives of others through education and opportunity. Core values at PWP include deep sustainability practices and promoting volunteerism. In addition to their team volunteering annually on Martin Luther King Day and throughout the year, their company principals serve on nonprofit boards. 

What sets PWP apart from other companies is their combination of experience, instincts, and ability to thoroughly understand the organizations they serve. PWP knows that nonprofits have to stretch every creative dollar and, above all, serve the mission of the organization in the most effective way possible. They serve nonprofits, their staff has worked with nonprofits, it is a part of their culture and who they are as people. This experience enables PWP to produce media that enlightens and moves viewers by telling thoughtful and respectful stories of real people, while understanding pacing, visual interest, and purpose. PWP is built on courtesy, honesty, creativity, and successful communication. This recipe has led to them developing long-term client relationships with like-minded organizations. 

Re:Vision Architecture

Re:Vision was founded in 2002 to make a positive difference in the natural, built, and social environments. Today, Re:Vision is comprised of two studios in one LEED-certified building—an Architecture studio that designs sustainable projects and a Sustainability Consulting studio that supports other architects, owners, contractors, and organizations to  make their work and their companies more sustainable.

Sustainability is part of Re:Vision’s DNA and it shows in our portfolio of Zero Energy verified, Passive House certified, LEED Platinum, Living Building certified, and common-sense-green projects. Re:Vision has been recognized nationally and locally as sustainable design experts and thought leaders by leading organizations including the AIA, The New York Times, Metropolis Magazine, PHIUS, Living Future, and others.

With care for the impact of our business, Re:Vision has been a certified B Corporation since 2007 and Just labeled since 2021 to make transparent our social and environmental performance.

Solar States

Solar States is a certified B-Corporation founded in 2008 with a dual-mission to install solar and educate the next generation. They take a triple-bottom-line approach to solar: People, Planet, and Profit.

PEOPLE: Solar States provides full healthcare, 401k, and profit-sharing to all employees—but more importantly, they build careers. In 2025, their Find Your Power program trained 100 students, employed 27 paid interns, and extended 8 full-time offers—up from 5 interns and 3 hires the year before. To date, they’ve trained 600+ people through partnerships with Philadelphia OIC, PowerCorpsPHL, and the Energy Coordinating Agency.

PLANET: Their 2,000+ installed systems have saved customers $15+ million in avoided electricity costs and kept millions of pounds of CO2 out of the atmosphere. Solar States makes solar accessible to ALL in our communities.

PROFIT: Seventeen years in business, driven by reputation and referrals. They avoid high-pressure sales tactics and instead find sensible solar+storage solutions for homeowners and businesses across the region.

Strategy Arts

Strategy Arts is a planning and facilitation consulting firm with an emphasis on equitable community engagement. Since our founding in 2003 we have been guided by a set of principles centering humanity and being good stewards of the earth. When B Lab was established it gave a structure to our values and we became a founding B Corp and in 2019 a Best for the World honoree. We also had the honor of being part of the founding board of SBN and our Managing Partner, Elizabeth Guman, served as co-chair with Judy Wicks. 

Strategy Arts works directly with marginalized communities and the organizations serving them on many societal issues such as high rates of economic insecurity, food insecurity, disproportionate rates of infant and maternal mortality and morbidity, reentry issues and more. We know all too well that these disparities predominantly affect Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and that understanding root causes of these disparities is a requirement for changing the system.

To engage in this work we do extensive professional development, including unpacking internal bias for privileged identities and support and healing for marginalized identities. In our client work, we incorporate equitable practices relevant to the processes required for the project that range from ensuring marginalized voices are included through stakeholder engagement, incorporating equitable norms in meetings, training on equitable practices for clients and equity audits.  

We continue to develop a strong internal culture that values each of our team members through our policies and our collaborative working processes. Our latest project has been to learn about and incorporate self-governance practices to deepen our commitment to shared decision-making and power.

The post SBN Announces Nominees for the 2026 Triple Bottom Champion Award appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

From food and drink options to a multitude of services and products, you are bound to find something that you will love while also supporting local businesses, reducing waste, and spreading holiday cheer.

Check out SBN’s 2025 Holiday Gift Guide Below!

Crust Vegan Bakery

Not that you ever need an excuse to have a sweet treat, but the holidays are a perfect time to gift one!

Crust Vegan Bakery has a multitude of vegan options for anyone with a sweet tooth. If you choose to order a cake ahead of time, you can customize it with a holiday greeting, an inside joke, or even a design of your choice! If you are looking to buy a sweet treat for someone but aren’t sure what they may like? Crust also sells gift cards customizable gift cards that can be sent virtually or via mail. Stay tuned for their upcoming move into their new space in East Falls, featuring a sit down cafe with an expanded menu and coffee.

Check out their website or follow them at @crustveganbakery for mouth-watering photos and ordering options.

Triple Bottom Brewing

Triple Bottom Brewing is Philadelphia’s fair-chance brewery, serving up delicious craft beer with a mission. As a certified B Corp, they create living-wage jobs and opportunities while brewing standout beers, making every sip a gift that supports community impact! They also offer gift cards and great merch for those looking for a lower budget gift!

For the beer aficionado in your life, consider signing them up for Triple Bottom Brewing’s Beer Club! Every three months, members receive an eclectic selection of beers hand-picked by Triple Bottom’s beer experts. Each case will contain four six-packs of beer based on what is seasonal to that month or just what Triple Bottom’s team is excited to show off! The price is $85 per quarter, 20% cheaper than buying individual cases. 

Visit them online or follow them at @triplebottombrewing to learn more about their delicious sips and opportunities.

Fishtown Seafood

Do you have a foodie in your life? Maybe someone who might enjoy a class about pairing flavors with seafood or how to handle oysters? Get them a gift card to Fishtown Seafood. 

With locations in Fishtown, Fitler Square, and Haddonfield, NJ, Fishtown Seafood makes sustainable luxury accessible. The “New School Fish Shop” offers a wide variety of freshly-sourced sea food items and classes for newcomers and culinary experts, alike! 

Find more information on their website and follow them at @fishtownseafood. 

Cake Life Bake Shop

Beyoncé trusts Cake Life with her birthday cakes. Enough said. 

Steal the show without breaking a sweat this year with Cake Life’s delicious holiday baking! Visit their Fishtown shop for Philly’s BEST holiday cookie boxes, cakes, pastries, gifts, coffee, and more!! Pre-orders, delivery, and nationwide shipping are also available. Proudly Woman-, Immigrant-, and Trans-owned!

Find more delicious items on their website or follow them at @cakelifebakeshop.

LUHV Vegan Deli

LUHV Vegan Deli is a Philadelphia favorite for plant-based comfort food, making it a standout choice for holiday gifting. Their deli specializes in hearty sandwiches, soups, and signature selections crafted to show that vegan food can be satisfying, flavorful, and nourishing. 

Whether you’re shopping for a vegan loved one or simply want to introduce someone to Philly’s thriving sustainable food scene, LUHV Vegan Deli is perfect for:

• Gift cards that let friends and family enjoy a meal in the iconic Reading Terminal Market
• Prepared foods and deli favorites that make holiday gatherings more inclusive and memorable

If you are hosting a holiday party, consider getting your celebration catered by Luhv Vegan Deli! No matter your dietary needs, Luhv got you covered! 

Visit their website for more information!

Good Karma Cafe

With locations in the Wilma Theater, Society Hill, and Fitler Square – Good Karma Cafe serves Organic coffees and delicious baked goods. Good Karma prides themselves on their sustainable practices and eco-friendly shops.

For the coffee lover in your life, consider gifting them a Good Karma gift card or a Good Karma gift basket consisting of GK wine, GK mug, and GK gift card!

Check our their website and follow them at @goodkarmaphilly.

Shane Confectionary

Indulge in sustainable sweets from America’s oldest continuously-run confectionery. Shane Chocolate Works crafts ethically sourced, bean-to-bar chocolate that honors tradition while innovating for sustainability. 

Enjoy 10% off with code SBNMemberHoliday. Peruse their entire collection of sweet treats and follow @shaneconfectionery for a taste of their commitment to responsible sourcing and local production.

Remark Glass

Remark Glass is a zero-waste certified glass shop that recycles discarded glass bottles and jars to create beautiful pieces. This holiday season, for a fun surprise– consider gifting a mystery box. The box will contain two mystery glasses for just $30! 

Shop online, order a custom keepsake, and follow @remarkglass to see how they have recycled over 420k lbs of glass and turned Philly’s trash into true treasures.

Old City Canning Co.

Old City Canning Co. is the perfect place to shop for the candle-lover in your life. The sustainable, women-owned company designs and sells straight from Philadelphia, boasting five diverse collections of scents. Each candle is handmade with a clean-burning coconut–soy wax blend that delivers a longer, more even burn and enhanced fragrance. 

This winter, consider perusing Old City’s holiday collection for seasonal scents! Use promo code Giftmas20 for 20% off your order

Visit them online or check out their Instagram at @oldcitycanningco. 

The Wardrobe

Love shopping for secondhand treasures? The Wardrobe is a nonprofit resale shop working to eliminate clothing insecurity in the greater Philadelphia area. When you shop with or donate to The Wardrobe, you help us provide clothing for free to folks in need. Featuring all types of clothing–casual, professional, and more–for all gender identities, The Wardrobe is the place to shop with sustainability in mind. 

Find out more at WardrobePA.org or follow them at @thewardrobeorg.

Natural Body Essentials

This holiday season, Natural Body Essentials is offering exclusive gift bundles that make self-care simple and sustainable.

 Featured sets include: 

🎁 Radiance Glow Gift Set – Blue Tansy and Bakuchiol Serums with a Jade Roller for glowing, youthful skin.

🕯️ Winter Radiance Set – Coffee Scrub and Whipped Body Butter for soft, hydrated skin all winter long.

Each bundle comes beautifully packaged and ready to gift! Customers can also enjoy free shipping on orders over $75 and special seasonal pricing on all holiday sets while supplies last.

Visit their website and follow @naturalbody_skincare for promos and events!

dilo

Relax the right way this holiday season with dilo. 

At dilo, products are created that blend modern design with high-quality, USA-sourced ingredients, all made locally in Philadelphia. Their collection includes candles, incense, reed diffusers, room sprays, and personal fragrances. Whether you’re looking for a signature scent to elevate your home or a beautifully packaged set for a colleague or friend, dilo’s products embody warmth and creativity. 

Check out their website and use promo code SBN15 to receive 15% off all products. Follow them on Instagram at @dilophilly and @dilo_home.

Bennett Compost

Don’t just give a gift – give a greener future! With Bennett Compost, you’re not just filling stockings, you’re filling local farms and gardens with life and keeping our planet happy.

Whether you are buying for a full-time farmer or a loved one with a few potted plants, consider giving them the gift of compost! Bennet Compost boasts high-quality, locally-made soil and compost products that are perfect for the green thumbs in your life. Now is the perfect time to nudge your neighbor to go green!

Have a look through their website or follow @bennettcompost to find the right mix.

Baby Gear Group

Do you have a new parent in your life? This holiday season, introduce them to Baby Gear Group! The innovative, sustainable company allows parents or even gift-givers to rent a wide variety of baby products. From travel strollers to developmental toys for long-term, at-home use, and more– Baby Gear Group has it, allowing parents to save cash on items their little ones will quickly outgrow.

This holiday season, Baby Gear Group has $1 for $20 Gift Cards!  Buy one for yourself or gift to a partner and all your friends! Fill out this form for a gift card today!

Valid at Philadelphia branch only.  Applicable towards membership and rental fees.  Not applicable towards deposits and buyouts.  Either Purchaser or Recipient must be a new customer name for 2025.  If you rented with us in 2024, but not yet in 2025, you count as new! Limit 1 gift card per Purchaser/Recipient combo. Promotion expires 12/31/25 or until 250 gift cards are sold, whichever comes first. 

Visit their website and follow @babygeargroup to learn how they’re making baby gear more circular.

Repleo Boutique

Transform your holiday gift giving with Repleo Boutique. With a name rooted in Latin meaning to replenish, refill and restore, Repleo (pronounced Reh-PLAY-oh) embraces the ancient philosophy shared by cultures around the world that cherishing our resources is the true source of abundance. It reminds us that the small actions we take really do matter. Whether you are refilling your hand soap, replenishing your shampoo bar, or restoring your energy, living more sustainably should feel like a beautiful ritual. 

From artisan soaps, bath bombs and shower steamers to refillable vessels, you’ll find products with clean ingredients that are kinder to you and the planet. Elegant gift sets and customizable collections offer sustainable options perfect for everyone on your list. Discover your new favorite home and body care ritual and share it with someone you care about this holiday season. 

Repleo is based in the Art Museum Area and currently mobile, offering local delivery and popping up at retailers and markets across Philadelphia. 

Visit repleoboutique.com and follow @repleoboutique on Instagram for upcoming events.

Garden Behavior

Live Trees (potted, B&B) are available for rent for temporary use this holiday season! Whether you’d like them just for an event, or to use in your home or office for a few weeks, holiday tree rental is ideal for those who love real trees and sustainability. Service includes tree selection (Varietals of Spruce, Pine, Cypress and Arborvitae), delivery, pickup and placement + care instructions. 

Fun fact: trees are later re-planted and used in landscapes or sold, instead of being disposed of.

DM them on Instagram at @rentatreephilly or @gardenbehavior, or email them at phillytreerentals@gmail.com to receive 10% off all rentals (for SBN members only). 

Thank You!

As you reach the end of our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide, SBN would like to thank our friends and members for helping to build a more sustainable community. Through the carefully crafted and impactful gift options provided, your choices and practices truly embody the triple bottom line. Happy Holidays!

The post SBN’s Holiday Gift Guide 2025 appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

The symposium will include two tracks, Urban Greening Management: New Approaches, Stewardship, and Maintenance, as well as Funding & Financing Opportunities for Community Greening & Water Infrastructure. In addition to these core tracks, SBN and its Steering Committee will consider proposals that present cutting edge developments and innovations in water & tree canopy management technologies and practices, as well as those that incorporate an integrated water systems approach to climate resilience for our Opening Plenary. This year’s symposium will have a focus on urban forestry in support of our newly launched Urban Forestry Initiative and the implementation of the Philly Tree Plan, thanks to support from the William Penn Foundation!

SBN is actively seeking session proposals for our event and will accept submissions until the extended deadline of 5:00PM EST on Friday, January 16. Please share with your networks and we look forward to receiving your session proposals!

Please email any questions to Alex Cupo, Senior Manager, Climate Resilience Programs for SBN at alex@sbnphiladelphia.org.

The post Call for Submissions Open for “Achieving Climate Resilience Through Urban Greening” Symposium appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

PHILADELPHIA, PA – The Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN) is proud to announce the appointment of Zoraida Cordero (she/her) as our new Executive Director.

Zoraida brings a dynamic blend of experience, energy, and purpose-driven leadership that will guide SBN into its next chapter of growth and impact. A U.S. Army veteran, civic educator, and macro social worker, she has built a career rooted in equity, sustainability, and community empowerment across the government, nonprofit, and private sectors.

Her commitment to environmental justice was evident during her tenure at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where she advanced environmental equity through strategic partnerships and community engagement. More recently, Zoraida helped transform neighborhood spaces into hubs of opportunity through her work with Safe-Hub Philadelphia, expanding youth development and programming in underserved communities.

Zoraida holds a Master of Social Work from Temple University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Muhlenberg College. She teaches Civic Engagement at Drexel University and serves on the Montgomery County Commission for Women, further demonstrating her dedication to inclusive leadership and civic responsibility.

Throughout the search process, SBN’s Board of Directors was deeply impressed by Zoraida’s strategic insight, thoughtful leadership style, and clear alignment with SBN’s mission. She is eager to connect with our members, partners, and broader community, and to lead SBN with vision, integrity, and heart.

Cordero’s tenure as Executive Director began Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

About the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia

The Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN) is building a just, green, and thriving economy in the region. We empower the local business community to be change agents in the movement towards equity and climate resilience, and we advocate with them and on their behalf so an equitable and climate-resilient local economy grows and thrives.  

Since our founding in 2001, SBN has remained the region’s only membership and advocacy organization playing the critical role of serving Greater Philadelphia’s independent values-driven business community. 

www.sbnphiladelphia.org

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The post SBN Announces New Executive Director, Zoraida Cordero appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

As a member of SBN’s Board of Directors, you’ll play an integral role in shaping the strategy, major organizational policies, and direction of SBN going forward. If you’re passionate about advancing SBN’s mission of building a just, green, and thriving local economy in our region, fill out an application today! See below for a brief description of the position and qualifications:

Board of Directors: At-Large Position Description and Qualifications

The Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN) is seeking Board members to provide appropriate foresight, oversight, and insight in service of our mission, and work in partnership with the Executive Director to advance SBN’s Vision, Mission, Core Values, and Strategic Objectives. 

SBN Vision: We envision a future where businesses are investors in the quality of life for all citizens. We challenge and support the business community to build profitable enterprises that serve community needs, share wealth, and protect the environment.

SBN Mission: The mission of the Sustainable Business Network is to build a just, green, and thriving economy. We accomplish this by educating and growing a broad base of local, independent local businesses and educating policymakers and the general public.

SBN Core Values: Sustainability and Respect for the Earth, Community Self-Reliance and Cooperation, Diversity, Optimism, Authenticity and Accountability, and Pioneering leadership

SBN Strategic Objectives: 

1. Equity and anti-oppression are embedded in all we do
2. Critical growth industries—the regional food system, renewable energy and energy efficiency, and green stormwater infrastructure—thrive in the region, creating opportunities for diverse small businesses and workers, providing family-supporting wages, enhancing equitable community development, and advancing climate resilience
3. The policies and budget priorities of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and City of Philadelphia support an economic ecosystem that centers localism, protects our environment, and ensures prosperity for all
4. SBN continues to be recognized as the region’s thought and practice leader on local independent business issues, triple bottom line business practices, and an equitable, inclusive, and climate resilient economy
5. The region’s diverse independent businesses are doing well by doing good
6. SBN has the infrastructure, and human and financial assets necessary to achieve our goals

Our ideal candidates are business owners or leaders with a track record of practicing – and measuring success by – the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit; a proven ability to provide both strategic and innovative thought leadership; an orientation towards prioritizing the best interests of the Board, organization, and members; a demonstrated record of taking a cooperative and collaborative approach to their work; comfort and confidence in acting as an ambassador and connector for the organization; practiced at engaging in difficult and probing conversations both as a contributor and a listener; and has the capacity to invest the time the organization needs from Board members.

To review the Board director position in full, please find it here: SBN Board Member 2026-2029 Job Posting

How to apply:

Candidate application forms are available here (or click the button below). Applications are due no later than Friday, November 7, 2025. 

All candidates must complete the candidate application form, and include requested submissions detailed on that form. Send completed candidate application forms and/or any questions via email to SBNBoardApp@gmail.com. 

SBN values the diversity of our region’s assets, perspectives, and voices. We believe that the broadest possible participation of different races, genders, and other identities is vital to SBN’s continued relevance and our ability to best serve our mission. As such, we strongly encourage people of color, women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and other identities to apply for this and all open positions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. SBN’s non-discrimination policy can be found here.

The post SBN’s Call for Board Member Candidates for the 2026 – 2029 Term appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

PHILADELPHIA, PA July 30, 2025 — The Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN) is pleased to announce the launch of its 2024-2025 as a part of the Philly Tree Plan, which supports tree canopy expansion in Philadelphia. This year, SBN launched its Food Saver Inventory Wind-Down Challenge in partnership with Saxbys. In total, 28 cafes participated in the challenge with 10 cafes in the Greater Philadelphia Area.

Saxbys is “for students, by students,” meaning that locations are run and operated by student CEOS on college campuses throughout the country. During the end of every semester, Saxbys sees a decrease in consumers. This year’s challenge focused on the collective goal to maintain product availability while cutting down on food waste during the final weeks of the semester.

With invaluable support from the Natural Resources Defense Council’s (NRDC) Food Matters Initiative, SBN coordinated with Saxbys in order to shift production patterns, redistribute food products, and reduce waste through composting. The Student CEOs, tasked with implementing the challenge, each found unique ways to cut down on food waste.

This initiative was driven by the staggering reality that up to 40% of the U.S. food supply is wasted, with Philadelphia alone contributing up to 25% of its waste stream to this figure. On a global scale, food waste accounts for over 8% of greenhouse gas emissions and is responsible for 58% of landfill methane emissions.

Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, approximately 250,000 residents lack access to nutritious food, further highlighting the importance of this challenge. The report celebrates the success of the Food Saver Challenge, a pioneering effort by SBN to address food waste. The collaborative efforts of our partnership with Saxbys has resulted in meaningful strides towards diverting waste from entering landfills, promoting sustainability, and engaging our community in the fight against food waste and food insecurity.

Saxbys is an education company disguised as a coffee company: a one-of-a-kind hospitality platform delivering coveted, career-launching outcomes for students and higher education partners. In 2015, Saxbys pioneered The Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform (The Saxbys E.L.P.), a network of cafes entirely designed for and run by college students. The Saxbys E.L.P. emboldens the next generation of changemakers by providing undergraduates with entrepreneurial opportunities, complementing classroom learning with tangible real-world experience. Founded in 2005 by Nick Bayer and headquartered in Philadelphia, Saxbys operates 30 cafes across nine states; 26 of which are part of The Saxbys E.L.P. network, and include Boston University, Georgia State University, Drexel University, Bowie State University, and an array of other incredible partners.

Find the Saxbys location nearest you at hellosaxbys.com or follow @saxbys on Instagram.You can also stay updated on SBN’s food waste reduction efforts by joining the organization, subscribing to its newsletter, and following it on social media @sbngreaterphiladelphia.

The post SBN Releases 2024-2025 Saxbys Food Saver Challenge Report appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

As we kick off Earth Month, SBN is celebrating by spotlighting some of our member’s sustainable products and services that have a positive impact on the environment. Although environmental stewardship should be recognized throughout the year, this month is a perfect reminder that we all play a role in preserving our environment. Whether you’re well-versed in sustainability or you’re looking for a new opportunity to make an impact, our Earth Day Business Guide is here to highlight the businesses in our area that can help you reach your environmental goals.

Bar Hygge

HYGGE (pronounced HOO-GAH) is a word that embodies a culture of Danish living that embraces warm atmosphere and cozy surroundings, where people can spend time surrounded by loved ones enjoying good food, drink and conversation. Bar Hygge was designed and built to offer a space where guests can experience hygge firsthand.

The restaurant and brewery located at 1720 Fairmount Ave., opened in 2016 was constructed using a sustainability model utilizing repurposed wood, barrel staves and pallets. The scratch kitchen presents a new/contemporary American menu with seasonal changes, local ingredients and a focus on neighborhood comfort food.

Brewery Techne is their in-house 10 barrel brewery. They exclusively use local barleys grown in Pennsylvania and malted in Philadelphia. Eight to ten seasonal and year-round beers can be found on draft and in cans.

Composting is an integral part of Bar Hygge’s daily routine and they are proud to use fellow SBN member, Bennett Compost.

Make a reservation today and stay up to date via their Instagram, @bar_hygge!

Crust Vegan Bakery

Crust is a queer woman owned vegan bakery that values high quality ingredients and purchases local products when possible to support other like minded small businesses. Crust strives to find the balance between offering an affordable and quality product to customers while providing a living wage and supportive work environment to their staff. They ensure there is always room to give back to our community within their costing structure, and they embrace their politics in deciding who to donate to. Crust keeps it political because food is political.

Crust was also the winner of SBN’s Inaugural Food Saver Challenge last year! They were recognized for their unique repurposing solutions that helped prevent waste from entering landfills. Learn more about Crust’s win and other food waste reduction achievements in our Food Saver Challenge Report.

Visit their storefront location at 4409 Main St, Philadelphia, PA 19127 to learn more and order. You can also check out their Instagram, @crustveganbakery, for weekly and seasonal menu updates!

Triple Bottom Brewing

Triple Bottom Brewing Company is a woman-owned craft brewery and event space located on Spring Garden Street in Philadelphia. They are the first and only brewery in Pennsylvania to have earned the B Corp Certification, and have been a fair chance employer since their founding in 2019. Triple Bottom Brewing recently launched their Future of Service Apprenticeship program, which helps people impacted by the justice system and housing insecurity to build meaningful careers in the hospitality industry and beyond.

Visit them at 915 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19127 and check out their instagram, @triplebottombrewing for more updates and fun events!

Cork & Candles

Cork & Candles is an interactive, hands-on candle making experience where guests create their own personalized candles in a welcoming space. Select your favorite scents, blend them to perfection, and create your own candles during their 90-minute experience!

Cork & Candles’ scent bar is designed to be a sensory delight, with a wide range of fragrances that cater to every preference, from exotic and fruity to earthy and floral. It’s more than just candle making; it’s about the joy of creation, learning, and exploration in a cozy environment where memories are made.

Follow @corkandcandles on Instagram and book an experience at one of their locations throughout the region!

Weavers Way Co-op

As a community-owned organization, Weavers Way has a long history of putting planet before profit, ensuring shoppers have opportunities to reduce waste, with extensive bulk shopping opportunities, incentives for shoppers to use their own containers, an innovative container refund program that recirculates reusable containers, and community work to improve our environment. Weavers Way has a long history of environmental action, and they continue to seek ways to improve. Their stewardship for this planet is written into their Ends. They also invite community engagement in sustainability efforts through the Weavers Way Environment Committee (WWEC) and their Plastic Reduction Task Force (PRTF) who work together with Weavers Way administration and staff to make the Co-op sustainable.

Weavers Way was also awarded as SBN’s 2025 Triple Bottom Champion at this year’s Annual Meeting. The Triple Bottom Champion Award recognizes a business within SBN’s network that embodies the triple-bottom-line approach of being mindful of people, the planet, and profit.

Visit one of Weavers Way’s store locations in Mt. Airy, Chestnut Hill, and Ambler. Stay updated on their news and events as well via their Instagram, @weaversway and Facebook, @WeaversWayCo-op!

Perrystead Dairy

Perrystead Dairy is an urban Philadelphia producer of American original cheeses made with pastured milk from local, sustainable family farms. In the past four years, they have won 20 domestic and international awards and the Slow Food Snail of Approval, along with major media coverage affirming their uncompromising commitment to flavor and quality, environmental stewardship, and supporting both the urban community and farmers who do right by land and animals.

Their cheeses bring together novel ideas and heritage techniques, to create distinctly American flavors that speak to our place and time. They are also one of your most local producers.

Learn more about Perrystead Dairy by following their Instagram, @perrysteaddairy.

Glitter

Cleaning up Philly, one block at a time—while creating living-wage jobs.

Glitter is a community-powered cleaning service that helps neighbors crowdfund weekly block cleanings while providing fair-wage jobs for people facing barriers to employment. Since 2021, they’ve cleaned thousands of city blocks, improving neighborhood quality of life and environmental health.

Glitter’s work directly reduces litter in storm drains, keeps public spaces cleaner, and fosters stronger, more connected communities. By investing in cleaner streets, they are not only making Philly greener—they’re creating economic opportunities for those who need them most.

SBN is excited to team up with Glitter for Earth Month to bring cleaner, healthier streets to more neighborhoods. As part of this partnership, SBN members can get a FREE first block cleaning! This offer is valid for new blocks who have reached at least their first pledge goal of $50 (to be split between as many neighbors as you want!). Sign up today and help make Philadelphia a cleaner, greener, and more welcoming place for everyone! (If you are not already an SBN member, learn more and join today!)

Start a cleaning fund for your block today and visit their social media for more updates: Instagram: @shareglitter, Facebook: @shareglitter, and Linkedin: @ShareGlitter.

Baby Gear Group

Borrow, don’t buy!

Baby Gear Group is a local baby gear library helping families gear up for their little ones while saving money, reducing clutter, and living sustainably. Replace your registry items with a sustainable alternative or rent a la carte for summer travels!

Earth Month Promotion: Use promo code SBN20 to get 20% off gift cards for the month of April. Buy for yourself or give a gift to a friend!

Shop online today or check out their Instagram, @babygeargroup for more news and updates!

ECHO Systems

Cut Costs, Waste Less, and Elevate Your Business with Reuse!

Tired of watching your hard-earned dollars disappear with every trash pickup? At ECHO Systems, they help food, beverage, event, and hospitality businesses slash waste-hauling costs, reduce single-use expenses, and boost their brand by adopting reusable solutions that work. ECHO Systems’ circular systems and warewashing strategies don’t just save you thousands each year—they make your business look good while doing good. Sustainability isn’t just about the planet; it’s about profitability, too. Let’s build a smarter, cleaner future—where waste is out, and reuse is in!

Earth Month Promotion: Get 10% off of our consulting services to help any businesses set up an end to end reuse system using code SBN10%!

Visit their Instagram or Bluesky profile to learn more and get updates!

Grow Our Food

Grow Our Food is a full-service edible landscaping company. Transform your outdoor space into a beautiful, productive landscape that provides fresh food for your family and friends! Whether you have a small urban yard or a larger suburban plot, Grow Our Food will help you understand your land’s potential and create a roadmap for developing a sustainable food garden.

Services offered include: vegetable garden setup, native gardens, pollinator gardens, rainwater harvesting systems, fruit trees & berries, garden coaching, expert consultations, and full site design & planning.

Earth Month Promotion: Get a 10% discount for all landscape projects using code SBNSPRING2025 executed before June 1, 2025. Reach out via email, growourfooddesign@gmail.com, or phone, 267-415-6076, and get on the calendar today!

Rego

Rego believes that what gets measured gets improved. The most significant and overlooked opportunity in climate is helping organizations accurately measure their waste management data that would help organizations recoup billions of dollars of waste costs and increase global waste diversion rates. Rego is building incredible tools that make it easy for any organization, anywhere in the world, to easily measure waste and take action.

First-time clients can access Rego’s Zero Waste tracking at any organization for $9 per month for their first 12 months with a 100% money-back guarantee. Whether you’re a local coffee shop or global organization wanting to learn how to achieve Zero Waste, lower your waste costs, or show off your sustainability efforts to your stakeholders, Rego’s platform can help!

Earth Month Promotion: First-time clients can unlock a 40% discount to try Rego’s waste tracking platform at any location! To claim your offer, email Josh at Josh@liverego.com.

Stay up to date with Rego through their Instagram and Linkedin!

Green Investment Strategies

Green Investment Strategies crafts portfolios that aim to help you maximize return potential for your risk tolerance level and keep as much of that return as possible by making investments that minimize risk and maximize opportunities for our shared future. Green Investment Strategies is proud to be a Climate Investing Firm.

Earth Month Promotion: The Earth needs a good financial advisor. In honor of Earth Day, Green Investment Strategies is extending its friends and family discount of 10% off for the remainder of the year to all new clients who sign up in April 2025.

Bargain Thrift Center

Reduce overproduction and waste this Earth Month by buying used — commit to buying your clothes, housewares, decor, and more secondhand by shopping at Bargain Thrift Center! By shopping secondhand, you can help keep over 30,000 lbs of items out of the landfill every month.

Follow Bargain Thrift Center on Instagram for more updates and visit their storefront at 5261 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144 to start shopping!

That’s a wrap!

Supporting local, sustainable businesses like these is a powerful way to advance environmental goals by reducing carbon footprints, minimizing waste, and promoting ethical resource management. Investing in these businesses also strengthens our local economy and communities by encouraging more companies to adopt environmentally-conscious models. By choosing to support businesses that prioritize sustainability, consumers help drive demand for greener and more ethical products and services, ultimately contributing to SBN’s mission of building a just, green, and thriving local economy.

If you’re interested in joining SBN and supporting our work this Earth Month and beyond, please consider donating or becoming a member today!

The post SBN Earth Month Business Guide 2025 appeared first on Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

From groundbreaking stormwater management solutions to vibrant urban green spaces, the event highlighted the power of nature-based solutions in creating more resilient and livable communities. Attendees had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge projects, engage with industry experts, and celebrate the remarkable achievements of individuals and organizations leading the way in GSI.

Our expert panel of judges included Amy Cornelius (Greenbeams), Skelly Holmbeck (Water Resources Association of the Delaware River Basin), Marc Camarata (Philadelphia Water Department), Sara Pevaroff Schuh (SALT Design Studio), and Juan Pablo Vicuna-Reyes (Stantec). The jury reviewed and shared insights on each project and selected awardees in the Private, Public, and Innovation categories. Attendees also had the opportunity to vote live for the Audience Choice Award.

Congratulations to our award winners: 

Michael Busch, Meliora Design, Public Projects Award Winner

Erin Landis, Wissahickon Trails, Private Projects Award Winner

Lyndon DeSalvo, The Nature Conservancy, Innovation Award Winner

Michael Busch, Meliora Design, Audience Choice Award Winner

Thank you to all our sponsors, including Title Sponsor Aqua, An Essential Utilities Company, Villanova University Center for Resilient Water Systems, and Convening Grant funder The Foundation for Pennsylvania’s Watersheds, and our presenters, jury, and attendees for making this event a resounding success!

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors!

Thank You to the Annual Sponsors of SBN’s GSI Partners!

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