Build Back Better: The Circular Economy Solution

Meet the ‘Build Back Better’ Panelists

The week of the Zero Waste Conference has finally arrived, and Metro Vancouver and the National Zero Waste Council are ready to welcome you to the landmark Build Back Better session.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives of every Canadian and shone a spotlight on the vulnerabilities in our society. This has resulted in a resounding cry to build back from this pandemic better than before and to create a country that is more resilient, equitable and prosperous. The circular economy is set to play a key role in that transition, and we are excited to bring together leading Canadian thinkers to discuss how that work can begin, in a session moderated by Brock Carlton, former CEO of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

An Academic Perspective

Dr. Tima Bansal is a scholar and sustainability and strategy professor, teaching at the Ivey School of Business at Western University. She is leading research on the circular economy as the Chair of the Canadian Council of Academics Expert Panel on the Circular Economy, which is currently exploring the question “What are the potential opportunities and challenges for a circular economy in Canada?” and is set to release findings in a report published by the Canadian Council of Academics. In a blog for the Network for Business Sustainability, Tima proposes that:

“The limits to growth are due to finite resource constraints. But, once waste is seen as a resource, then the resources will become unlimited.”

The Indigenous Economy

Carol Anne Hilton, MBA, is the CEO and Founder of The Indigenomics Institute and the Global Center of Indigenomics. The Indigenomics Institute works with Indigenous nations and organizations, governments and private industry to strengthen economic capacity and to achieve community and economic objectives for our nation’s original land stewards.

Carol Anne is of Nuu-chah-nulth descent from the Hesquiaht Nation on Vancouver Island. She brings an essential point of view to the discussion.

“In today’s business environment, First Nations are driving inclusion and participation, while improving on existing environmental standards. That is the role of Indigenous people in Canada’s future economy.”

Partnerships for Prosperity

​​Dr. Richard Florizone is President and CEO of the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), and President Emeritus of Dalhousie University. Part scientist, part strategist, Richard has a strong track record of forging collaborative partnerships to build intelligent, inclusive and inspiring institutions and communities.

“Sustainability is the defining issue of our times. We have an opportunity right now to shift the global trajectory. But we must do it together.”

Redefining Circular Business   

Melissa Barbosa Is the Head of Sustainability at IKEA Canada, which is planning to become a fully circular company by 2030 – meaning that all products would be made from renewable, recycled, remanufactured, refurbished, or reused materials and that IKEA Canada would joining forces with others in achieving a circular economy through advocacy, collaboration, and business partnerships.

Melissa is working to improve not only her company’s products but the lives of the customers that use them:

“We are now really focusing on the drivers for accelerating a shift that allows Canadians to live healthier and more sustainable lives at home while saving not only money but also energy, water and waste.”

Join us at the virtual Zero Waste Conference this Friday, November 13^th to gain insight and be inspired by these circular economy thought leaders.