The second edition of Optimal Ways’ Positive Aperitif was held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, bringing together some 50 enthusiastic participants. This exclusive event, aimed at Optimal Ways’ customers and service providers, is designed to highlight the agency’s CSR approach and offer inspiring testimonials.
A unique concept
The Positive Aperitif is unlike any other event. It offers a unique setting where exchanges are stimulating, testimonials inspiring and every detail is designed to be eco-responsible. From the warm welcome and enriching discussions to the local and sustainable buffet, everything is designed to offer a timeless experience.
Optimal Ways’ CSR approach
Begun in 2021 with the support of Ititoca, Optimal Ways’ approach has been gradually rolled out with key milestones: joining the 1% for the Planet France collective (November 2021), drafting the first CSR report (December 2022) and obtaining B Corp certification in May 2024.
Optimal Ways’ CSR commitments are available with indicators in the 2023 CSR report.
Circularity and solidarity
Domitille Widmaier and Vianney Poissonnier from La Bouquinerie du Sart opened the evening by talking about circularity and solidarity. Faced with the saturation of Lille’s shelters and social reintegration centers (CHRS), La Bouquinerie du Sart proposes an innovative solution: collecting books and clothes for resale, while offering training and employment to people in social reintegration. This model not only reduces waste, but also restores hope and independence to people in precarious situations. With a significant social impact, La Bouquinerie du Sart has supported 40 people on integration contracts, including 26 from shelters, with a 73% success rate in terms of professional reintegration. On the environmental front, over 2 million books and 320,000 items of clothing were sorted, helping to reduce waste and promote the circular economy.
Urban micro-forests
Mathieu Verspieren from Beeforest introduced us to the concept of urban micro-forests. These plantations, rich in biodiversity, are created in urban environments to combat climate change and raise awareness of the importance of trees. In four years, Beeforest has planted 55 micro-forests and raised the awareness of over 15,000 children and 5,000 volunteer citizens, proving that local commitment can have a global impact.
Responsible e-commerce
Thomas Lemaire and Julie Mascart from the E-CO collective presented their white paper on responsible e-commerce. By addressing sustainability issues in ecommerce, from product design to logistics and marketing, their aim is to promote more ethical, sustainable and local e-commerce, by tackling the entire value chain to reduce environmental impact and improve transparency.
A gourmet and eco-responsible finale
The evening concluded with an eco-responsible, vegetarian and zero-waste cocktail, prepared by Bonsigne, accompanied by a tasting of local beers from Wasquehal-based Waale Brewery. A real moment of exchange and inspiration shared by Optimal Ways’ customers and service providers!
