Highlights from Sustain SC’s 4th Annual Sustainability Symposium
On October 22–23, Sustain SC brought together 200 business leaders, policymakers and conservation experts at Central Energy in Columbia for two days of learning and collaboration at the intersection of commerce and conservation. Pre-events featured a Sustainability B2B Supplier Matchmaker with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, a Business-to-Student Networking session and a City Roots Farm Tour that showcased on-the-ground innovation.
Five takeaways we’re carrying forward:
An all-of-the-above energy strategy is a competitiveness strategy. South Carolina’s diverse energy mix, with deep nuclear expertise, growing grid modernization and new battery storage, positions the state to meet rising demand while attracting investment. Stable, predictable policy unlocks projects and jobs.
The Black River Project shows how rural prosperity grows when access, culture and nature connect. A first-of-its-kind riverine state park model is expanding equitable access, strengthening flood resilience and catalyzing local enterprise across the corridor.
Water is everyone’s business. From utilities to manufacturers, collaboration and regional approaches are key to supply, quality and future growth, and to keeping South Carolina the gold standard in sustainable water management.
Practical solutions scale fastest. Spotlighted projects from corporate responsibility to community development emphasized measurable progress, partnerships and repeatable models.
Consistency is the competitive edge. In an erratic policy environment, bipartisan problem-solving and clear rules of the road accelerate investment and help projects reach the grid.
A Balanced Approach to Energy
Keynote speaker James Dozier of Centerline Action outlined how South Carolina can lead with a balanced energy strategy that prioritizes reliability, affordability and load growth. He highlighted the state’s nuclear advantage, the importance of disciplined planning and the role of consistent policy in landing large-scale industrial projects and megawatts. He also noted the importance of continued investment in renewable energy and storage to strengthen resilience and meet rising demand.
In a follow-up Q&A, Dozier emphasized aligning messages to national priorities like energy dominance and supply-chain strength and noted that streamlined permitting and long-term certainty are central to near-term deployment.
“Long-term stability drives investment, strengthens supply chains and helps preserve South Carolina’s position as a magnet for advanced industry.”
From Vision to Action: Black River State Park
Panel discussion “Black River State Park: Where the Rivers of Commerce & Conservation Merge” showcased a transformational model for rural regions. Moderated by Dr. Maria Whitehead of Open Space Institute, the discussion explored how unprecedented collaboration is expanding access to nature, strengthening flood resilience and boosting local economies across the corridor.
Leaders including Senator Ronnie Sabb, Mayor Frank McClary, Hixon Copp of Williamsburg County and Joy Raintree of the SC Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, spotlighted state support, town revitalization, inclusive visitor experiences and small-business opportunity. They closed with a shared call to keep investing where commerce and conservation meet.
“Let’s continue to invest in places where commerce and conservation merge — creating a sustainable future for all South Carolinians.”
Water Works: Securing South Carolina’s Future
During the “Water Works: Navigating South Carolina’s Future for Sustainable Water Management” panel discussion, moderator Olivia Flynn of Hazen & Sawyer guided a cross-sector discussion with Myra Reece of the SC Department of Environmental Services, Rebecca West of ReWa and Travis Tarbet of BMW Manufacturing. The panel addressed statewide planning, utility collaboration and regionalization, industrial efficiency and risk mitigation. During the discussion, they made the case for a coordinated, forward-looking approach that balances growth with stewardship.
“As an outdoorsman, I enjoy fishing with my kids… I want them to have the same experiences with their kids and grandkids.”
Sustainability Spotlights and Special Recognition
Short, high-impact spotlights from Lauren Trapp of AFL, Mark Clement of Santee Development Corporation, Kay Self of VisionGreenwood and Suzanne Dickerson of Phenogy shared practical wins and lessons learned that others can adopt. Sustain SC Board Spotlight and Impact Highlight videos also played throughout the day, highlighting Sustain SC Board member perspectives and important 2025 announcements and accomplishments.
Sustain SC also recognized Ashley Demosthenes as the 2025 Ethel Bowman Bunch Sustainability Leadership winner — honoring leadership that bridges business goals with conservation outcomes.
What’s next?
Thank you to our speakers, partners, sponsors and attendees for helping make the 4th Annual Sustainability Symposium a success and for the momentum we’re carrying into the year ahead.
The Symposium may be over, but the conversations don’t end here. We’ll continue as we continue to build and grow and more sustainable future for South Carolin at the intersection of commerce and conservation for the benefit of our economy, environment and people.
