The Sustainable Herbs Initiative (SHI) is a growing community of herbal companies, producers, and practitioners committed to reimagining how herbs are sourced, processed, and brought to market. We believe that meaningful change begins with relationships built on trust, transparency, and a shared sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of people and the planet.
This three-part Learning Lab explores what this looks like from the perspective of primary processors, ingredient suppliers, and traders in the herbal products industry.
What We’ll Do Together
Through case studies, skill-building presentations, and systems-level frameworks, we’ll work toward four interconnected goals:
- Build concrete skills and tools for sourcing, processing, and trading herbs
- Explore broader questions like: What has value? How do we maintain the life of a plant through its journey?
- Build relationships and community among primary processors from different regions of the world
- Empower participants with practical resources to engage more fairly in sourcing networks
Sessions
- Session 1: The Nuts and Bolts: Sourcing/Post-harvest handling
- Session 2: Navigating Challenges: Quality and Certifications
- Session 3: Establishing, Deepening, and Maintaining Relationships
Who Should Join
Farmers, wild harvesters, primary processors, ingredient suppliers, and wholesale traders in the herbal products industry.
Facilitators
Ann Armbrecht, Founder and Director, Sustainable Herbs Initiative, and Nikita Agarwal, Product Manager, Herb Artizan with guest presentations from SHI members.
Dates
March 25, April 1, April 8, 2026, We ask that participants commit to the entire series if possible or, if you are unable to do that, that you commit to watching recordings of sessions missed.
Time
6-7:30 am ET/12-1:30 pm CET
Cost
Free for SHI members. $20-100 sliding scale for non-SHI members. We find that when people pay something, they are more likely to show up and engage, but pay what you are able to as a donation.
Register here
