Talking Sustainability at Advertising Week New York

Sustainability and advertising’s role in the climate crisis is a rare topic on this year’s AWNY programme, so we were proud to present the ambitions of Ad Net Zero to our audience in the Innovation Factory, one of the eight stages of the stunning Market Line venue.

The session was hosted by John Osborn, our newly appointed USA Director, who opened proceedings with a flourishing call for action. He explained how this initiative is all about collaboration and invited everyone to be part of the ‘All For None’ ambition.

He handed to Carlyn Kelly, SVP Future Practice, Kantar, who deftly explained why every business must embrace sustainability in its business model for a chance of future success. Advertising’s role in helping promote competition, innovation and behaviour change will be critical if we are to respond in time to the climate crisis. As John put it, “the clock is ticking and we have to move fast”.

John then invited to stage  Google’s Sadie Thoma and IPG’s Jemma Gould.  The three discussed Kantar’s insights and covered why advertising has to address the carbon involved in its operations, from production through to distribution, and harness its abilities to promote a more sustainable way of life. Jemma talked about the need for everyone on the US industry to come together and use the power of what we do for a living to make a difference, citing this as our biggest responsibility as an industry. Sadie urged everyone in the audience to join Ad Net Zero as supporters and help foster industry-wide collaboration.

John wrapped up the session by encouraging anyone to reach out and get involved.

Want to learn more about Ad Net Zero? Then stream our special 6-part podcast series, developed in partnership with the brilliant team at Advertising Week.