Sustainability Strategies that Meet the Moment, with Cassandra Garber, General Motors What does it take for a global leader like General Motors to source 100% of its U.S. electricity from renewables? Join Cassandra Garber, Chief Sustainability Officer at GM, for an inside look at how they are driving a $2 billion economic impact while racing toward an all-electric future. Session Summary In this keynote from The US Summit 2026: Chicago, Cassandra Garber reflects on her first year at General Motors and the company's aggressive pursuit of a zero-emissions future. Drawing on her deep roots in the "car community," Cassandra explains why the transportation sector is one of the most critical levers for addressing climate change today. She provides a transparent look at the "grit" required to navigate industry volatility while maintaining a steadfast commitment to GM's core vision: Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions, and Zero Congestion. Throughout the discussion, Cassandra highlights how GM is moving beyond simple ESG metrics to create a robust business case for sustainability. By focusing on battery innovation, supply chain agility, and domestic renewable energy, GM is proving that environmental responsibility can be a primary driver of economic growth and job creation. Key takeaways from this session include: 100% Renewable Milestone: General Motors has successfully met its goal to secure 100% renewable energy procurement for its U.S. operations as of 2025. Economic Impact: GM’s renewable energy initiatives have demonstrated a $2 billion economic impact, supporting local communities and job markets. EV Portfolio Diversity: GM currently offers 12 distinct EV models in the U.S., ranging from the accessible Chevy Bolt to the high-performance Escalade IQ. Battery Technology: Continuous investment in battery chemistry is allowing GM to lower production costs and offer consumers a wider range of price and performance options. Leadership Traits: Cassandra identifies Agility, Grace, and Grit as the three essential traits for leaders navigating the infancy of corporate sustainability functions. Strategic Adaptation: Insights into how GM adapts its business tactics—such as focusing on profitability and risk reduction—to ensure sustainability remains at the center of the company's growth.