Co-op Leader Conversations

Hear from Prof Maryline Filippi on how European and French co-operatives are facing the global challenges arising from climate change and gain insights into the delivery of their sustainability responsibilities to achieve ESG and SDG requirements.

In Episode 9 of our Co-op Leader Conversations Series, Roz Henry is joined by Prof Maryline Filippi (ICA Global and ICA Europe Board Member).

Listen as we discuss bioeconomy initiatives in Ireland and the role of cooperatives with John Brosnan, Bioeconomy Executive, Irish Cooperative Organisation Society (ICOS). Ireland has a rich history of cooperatives, with ICOS representing 130 commercial co-ops contributing €14 billion in turnover. The bioeconomy offers opportunities for co-ops to address climate challenges and create new value streams from biological resources.

John gives an overview of the bioeconomy and covers collaborative models including co-ownership structures to mitigate risk and pool resources and cooperation beyond the co-op sector with private companies and government. He talks about some of the challenges and considerations such as access to capital for large-scale facilities; the importance of careful planning to optimise logistics and avoid stranded assets; building farmer confidence after past failed crop diversification attempts and balancing existing land use. He also talks about innovative bioeconomy in Ireland and Denmark.

David touches on the main benefits of being a co-operative, what type of organisations are Capricorn’s members across Australia and New Zealand; and the challenges those members are facing in 2024.

In Episode 10 of Co-op Leader Conversations, Cooperative Business NZ CEO Saya Wahrlich sat down with Tanya Houghton, CEO of Farmlands, to discuss her vision for the co-op given the current economic challenges in the rural sector, and how Farmlands are adapting to advancements in technology.

Tanya also touches on their relationships with other cooperatives, how they work together and advice for newer co-operatives.

It’s a great watch with valuable takeaways for established and aspiring co-operatives.

nz.coop