We’re Recapping ELEVATE 2023: Bar Sustainability in an Evolving World Seminar

Sustainability can be defined as avoiding the depletion of natural resources to maintain an ecological balance.

Basically, we are meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility, and though at times it can be intimidating to think of all that needs to be done, it is important to remember that small steps make big differences.

This seminar, led by moderator Robin Wolf, partnered with Stephanie from Chinola Liqueur, was interactive, informative, and full of practical tips on how to move toward an increase in sustainability in our work and personal life.

There are three main pillars of sustainability – social, environment, and economic. Or broken down simply – people, planet, and prosperity. By focusing on the steps we can take in these areas using everyday actions, we can create the difference we need to make the world a better place.

We had open discussion about the challenges we face in the workplace to be more sustainable with our products and more aware of the waste we create. We brainstormed ideas like cork and bottle recycling, community gardens, and creating a system with others to help everyone feel connected and emotionally supported. Creating community over competition and putting in the work to make the change we need. We recognize that just because we’ve always done something a certain way, doesn’t mean it’s the right way – and that we must do better in order to be better.

It was refreshing to learn that a company like Chinola is so heavily invested in sustainable practices as well. The owners of Chinola, based in the Dominican Republic, work directly with the government to create sustainable practices. From using rock from the farms to help pave roadways around the country to having their own beehives and donating the honey to the communities. They hire local farmers to grow fruit and then buy it back from them. They donate the seeds from the fruit to be used in skin care products. This is a company that plans to be carbon neutral by 2030! Instead of depleting natural resources, they are actively giving back and have definitely embraced the three pillar philosophy! And they make the most delicious Passion fruit liqueur around!

Robin and Stephanie did such an excellent job bringing awareness and practicality to this workshop and the effort was greatly appreciated. A giant thank you to both of you, as well as Chinola Liqueur for sponsoring this seminar and being such a tremendous example to other companies of what it truly means to live by your beliefs and work toward a better future for everyone! Well done!