It’s hard to miss the impact of plastic pollution; especially in our oceans. Whether it’s social media posts, ominous news stories, or documentaries such as A Plastic Ocean, we are awash in images of polluted seas, littered beaches, and struggling marine and bird life. At first glance, it all seems quite overwhelming. At the 2017 Metro Vancouver Zero Waste Conference, we’ll be offering ideas and inspiration – from people who offer solutions.
Lightweight and durable, plastics provide broad social and environmental benefits, but they also pose a significant threat to our environment – in the form of microplastics in the ocean. Current trends suggest that by mid-century the weight of plastic in our oceans could surpass the biomass of all fish. In response, global solutions are emerging to keep plastics out of the waste stream and out of our water. At this year’s conference we will be featuring scientists, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs who are leading the effort.
Expert Panellists
Professor Richard Thompson will talk about his work with international organizations such as the OECD, G7, and United Nations – helping them to understand the scope and impact of plastic in our oceans. See our blog post on Professor Thompson here.
Mats Linder from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation will share his work as the lead for foundation’s New Plastics Economy Innovation Programme and the $2 million New Plastics Economy Innovation Prize.
Andrew Falcon, CEO of Full Cycle Bioplastics will highlight his company’s work creating an innovative waste-to-bioplastic product poised to enter the $450 billion global plastics market. See our blog post on Andrew and Full Cycle here.
Moderating the discussion and bringing his industry perspective will be Jim Downham, President & CEO, PAC Packaging Association and Vice Chair, National Zero Waste Council.
Understanding Local Waters
Bringing a regional perspective will be a spotlight video. Working collaboratively, Metro Vancouver, the Vancouver Aquarium, and Mountain Equipment Co-op have embarked on an important research project, the Ocean Pollution Research Collaborative, studying the amount of microfiber in our oceans and the impact it is having.
Water is life they say. One look at our blue planet shows the truth in this old saying. Our oceans must be healthy to properly play their role in our ecosystem. Ensuring the sustainability of our marine environment will be a priority in the coming years. However, it’s likely to be a challenge. Nonetheless, it also represents opportunities for innovation and success for those willing to embrace the challenge of finding solutions. By attending the Metro Vancouver Zero Waste Conference you’ll hear from those with the knowledge and expertise to help you spot both the pitfalls and the promise to be found in this global issue.
Register Today
The shift to zero waste and circular economy principles will have impacts in all aspect of our lives. To succeed in the face of this massive, fast-approaching change, you need to stay informed. Metro Vancouver’s 2017 Zero Waste Conference is the place to get the insights you can use to adapt – from industry-leading panelists and presenters. This year’s theme is A Circular Economy Within Reach. The conference will be held on November 1, 2017 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Register Now
Subscribe to this blog (sign up window at right) and stay up to date as we finalize an exciting list of speakers, panels, and presentations.  Metro Vancouver’s 2017 Zero Waste Conference is an event you don’t want to miss. We look forward to seeing you!
Reblogged this on Green Living 4 Live.