KURT KIPKA, VICE PRESIDENT at APPAREL IMPACT INSTITUTE As Vice President of Apparel Impact Institute, Kurt manages the growth and longevity of global programs including Clean by Design – a proven platform for improving the resource efficiency of textile mills in collaboration with multinational brands. Prior to joining Aii, he spent three years at the environmental non-profit, Natural Resources Defense Council, where he focused on developing platforms and tools to measure and improve environmental performance of leading brands and retailers. Kurt also spent 10 years in retail sourcing and has served as chair and active member of several retail industry councils and steering teams. Kurt earned a BA in International Business from St. John’s University and an MBA from the University of Minnesota – Carlson School of Business. ********************* About Apparel Impact Institute (Aii) Aii identifies, funds, scales and measures proven quality solutions to accelerate positive impact in the fashion industry. At Aii, we look for scalable solutions and best practices that can be applied to the entire value chain. By improving upon the environmental footprint of the current industrial model we (know/recognize) the key to unlocking the future will involve new innovations of materials, manufacturing and business models. Learn more: Website:  http://www.apparelimpact.org Instagram +Twitter: @apparelimpactinstitute