GreenBiz Verge 22 kicked off in San Jose, California in October. It was a week of opportunity and excitement, learning about up-and-coming technologies, discussing new ideas, and delving into solutions in the sustainability space.
Locus Fermentation Solutions’ (Locus FS) ESG manager attended the conference, which featured some of today’s great innovative minds in areas of:
- Construction
- Carbon and Climate
- Energy
- Technology
- Food and Agriculture
Verge 22 came packed with workshops, panels, keynotes, and innovative discussion. However, the key takeaways from the GreenBiz Verge event came in the significant focus on three main topics: carbon, agriculture, and collaboration.
1.) Carbon credits are a growing market, but quality is key
Carbon was a main topic of conversation everywhere at Verge 22—panels, case studies, round tables, presentations, and at the expo. Specifically, focus was put on the generation and sale of carbon credits. The GreenBiz conference had a significant presence of companies and organizations looking to provide clients with carbon credits. 
One of the main carbon credit subjects discussed at many of the panels and presentations was what makes a quality carbon credit. Locus’ team has seen firsthand the many carbon credit options that exist. And as this space continues to grow at a rapid pace, it creates a “Wild West” feeling.
The conference demonstrated that while many new carbon credits protocols and markets continue to launch, it’s important to select carbon credits generated through organizations that have established a strong set of rules and methodologies for their programs.
Overall, the carbon market remains confident in the quality of verified carbon credits from organizations such as Verra.
2.) Adoption of regenerative agriculture is improving food and supply chain security
Another focus at Verge 22 was the topic of agriculture—specifically regenerative agriculture. There were many panels and sessions that discussed the integration of technology, carbon credits, and soil biologicals. Focus was also put on limiting use or removal of fertilizers, while increasing the use of regenerative farming practices.
Many of the presentations came from farmers themselves. It was interesting to hear their perspective on what they are looking for in carbon farming programs and their opinion the best regenerative practices.
Overall, the main sentiment was that implementing regenerative agriculture practices is important to help improve food security, while also creating a more sustainable supply chain.
3.) Collaboration is crucial for advancing ESG solutions and meeting decarbonization goals
GreenBiz Verge 22 was all about bringing people together from different professions, views and backgrounds. All attendees were encouraged to collaborate and work together, to share ideas and grow. The conference provided the potential to identify new opportunities and partnerships to tackle the toughest challenges in reaching ESG goals and combating impacts of climate change.
It was clear in the messaging of the conference and in conversation that we must take on ESG challenges through collaboration to meet decarbonization goals. No one can take these challenges on alone, we must look to partners, clients, and outlets to play a role in making the world a better place.
Locus Fermentation Solutions is positioned to be a leader
As a green biomanufacturer, Locus Fermentation Solutions is positioned to be a leader in each of these three ESG-focused topics. Our fermentation solutions provide innovative pathways to assist companies across many key global industries in reaching their decarbonization goals. For example, Locus provides green solutions and services including:
- Carbon credits: CarbonNOW®, a globally recognized carbon farming program with broad eligibility that’s helped U.S. farmers receive over $1.2 million in carbon payments
- Regenerative agriculture: Crop-specific soil biologicals proven to increase yields (grow more food), accelerate carbon drawdown, and optimize fertilizer and water utilization for better sustainability and profitability
- Collaboration: Locus’ success in addressing ESG-related challenges has led to investments and agreements with a variety of strategic partners and clients, including Jefferies Funding LLC, Dow and Anew Climate
Greenbiz Verge 2022 was a very successful week full of discussion, education, and growth. It is exciting and promising to see where the sustainability space is headed for a better tomorrow. Through innovative developments in carbon credits, regenerative agriculture and collaboration, we can continue combating the challenges presented by climate change creating a more sustainable future for all industries and people.