This course delves into the implications that sustainability principles have on different aspects of an enterprise. Participants will gain an understanding of how the pursuit of sustainability can impact product/service development, marketing, finance, human resources, and operations. Issues of an integrative approach, priority setting, and incremental implementation will also be explored. Co-taught by an experienced business executive and a Chicago Sustainable Business Alliance staff member, the course will also cover real life example and applications. Although the course builds on concepts introduced in CSBA 101, attendance at 101 is not required.

PRESENTERS

Burt Klein
President, PortionPac

Burt Klein is President of PortionPac Chemical Corporation. Founded In 1964, PortionPac pioneered high concentrate detergent formulations, portion control packaging and environmentally sustainable programs. Dozens of concepts from safer chemicals to color coded products and formal custodial education were introduced to the janitorial and plant maintenance industry through PortionPac. Burt was born in Chicago and after graduation from the University of Illinois he worked for the Chicago Board of Trade ensuring that member firms had sufficient capital and led a team that enhanced the financial surveillance systems. Before working for PortionPac, he was Chief Financial Officer of Sheridan Investments, a money management firm in Chicago, during their four-fold growth in managed assets. Burt is a frequent speaker about sustainable business. He has been invited to speak the at the Illinois Governor’s Pollution Prevention Award ceremony, America’s Small Business Development Center Network and the School Nutrition Association. He currently is on the Board of the Industrial Council of Near West Chicago, Foresight Design Initiative and the University of Illinois’ Family Business Council.

Peter Nicholson
Executive & Creative Director, Foresight Design Initiative
Broadly knowledgeable on sustainability issues, Peter leads a multifaceted career focused on the creative pursuit of greater social, environmental and economic sustainability. He consults on and undertakes innovative sustainable design projects for a diversity of clients, including government agencies, institutional nonprofits, and diverse businesses. Considered a highly adept discussion facilitator, he hosts Foresight’s bimonthly Green Drinks panels and is in regular demand as a guest speaker, moderator and educator. Peter is dedicated to the education of the next generation of sustainability-minded leaders and regularly mentors interns as well as teaches the organization’s Urban Sustainable Design Studio.

Important Notes

• CSBA Members tickets are only available to active CSBA Members, who have applied and paid dues, only. Learn more about membership.
• Pre-Registration Required.
  
• Cancellation Policy: All Foresight tickets and/or event registrations are non-refundable. If an event is canceled or postponed by Foresight, participants will be offered a full refund. Please contact us if a personal emergency keeps you from attending an event. At Foresight's discretion, a refund may be offered in these cases.