Beyond Efficiency: Circular Thinking as Your Next Competitive Edge
SESSION DESCRIPTION:
Most sustainability conversations focus on doing less harm: using less energy, emitting less carbon, wasting less. But what if we aimed higher? What if we could design waste out of our systems entirely, and create lasting value in the process?
In this highly interactive session, you’ll experience the circular economy in action with a tour of a workplace intentionally designed around circular principles. Through dynamic small-group engagement, you’ll discover how circularity is not just about materials. It’s a way of thinking that can be applied to any industry: manufacturing, professional services, technology, retail, food service, and more. From reimagining resources to reinventing business models, you’ll leave with fresh insights, practical inspiration, and a mindset shift that expands how you define sustainability and success.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Lisa Whited is a certified circular economy specialist, author of Work Better. Save the Planet, and a consultant to organizations ranging from global corporations to local nonprofits. A current doctoral student in organizational development and change, she led the circular strategy and workplace redesign for the host location of this session and is passionate about using systems thinking and inclusive practices to drive climate-positive transformation.
Note: Parking: onsite garage, parking will be validated