Conference Program

Opening Keynote: Tackling Wicked Problems — Design and the Role of Di​sruptive Innovation
We are on the cusp of unparalleled change. An era of continuous disruption is transforming how we design, manufacture, and consume goods and materials. Embracing new mindsets and toolkits can help organizations navigate uncertainty and gain a competitive edge. In this keynote, Tom Wujec will inspire us to tackle complex problems in new ways and explore how the dimensions of circularity — the flow of materials, human experiences, and emerging technologies — can converge to redesign the future.

Speaker: Tom Wujec, World Renowned Expert on Innovation, Former Chief Disruptor at Autodesk, Author of The Future of Making

Innovator’s Showcase: Circular Solutions Transforming the Marketplace ​​
This session brings the circular economy to life through real-world success stories. Learn how leading innovators are scaling their solutions, succeeding in the marketplace, and transforming entire industries.

Speakers: 

• Brittany Gamez, COO and Co-Founder of Muuse 
  
• More to come
  

Circular Cities and Regions: Armchair Discussion​

Speakers:

• Marcos Badra, Sustainability Leader, Program Manager, Circular Economy at City of Richmond
• More to come​
  

Meeting the Moment: How Do We Scale Faster?
How do we replicate and scale circular solutions fast enough to achieve system-wide change? This panel explores what it will take — from bold government action and risk-tolerant investment to new market signals and policy shifts — to move beyond “business as usual.” What are the cost barriers, and how can we level the playing field between circular and linear models?

Spark Talk: Pierre-Emmanuel Saint-Esprit, Circular Economy Director of Manutan Group, Founder and Executive Director of ESSEC Global Circular Economy Chair

Speakers:

• Wayne Hubbard, CEO of ReLondon, Member of The UK’s Circular Economy Taskforce
• David Hughes, President and CEO of Generate Canada
• More to come

Moderator: Elizabeth Gamble, Clean Technology Expert, CEO of Profoundry

Morning Recap Remarks​

Lunch and Networking

Concurrent Sessions: Advancing an Innovation Economy through Circularity
Join one of three interactive sessions to unpack how innovative circular solutions can be scaled to support industry-wide transformation in three key economic sectors. Participants will be invited to share key takeaways and solutions during the networking break.

• Hospitality and entertainment
• Technology innovation
• Housing and construction

Networking Break and Gallery Walk

Closing Keynote Conversation: The Next Horizon —​ Designing a Regenerative Future
Two visionary designers reflect on how we can redesign everything — from products to buildings — to create a regenerative future without waste. This closing conversation looks ahead to the next horizon, exploring how circular thinking, design, science, and technology can help us live within planetary boundaries.

Speakers: To be announced

Moderator: Kathryn Gretsinger, Journalist and Associate Professor, School of Journalism, Writing, and Media, UBC

Closing Remarks