The circular economy is seen by many in the sustainability field as a practical solution to the planet's finite resources, to the transition to a low carbon economy, and an alternative to a traditional linear economy (i.e., make, use, dispose) in which we keep resources in use for as long as possible, extract the maximum value from them while in use, then recover and regenerate products and materials at the end of their use.

How can your organization better understand and become part of the circular economy? How can you future-proof your organization? Through case studies, guest speaker, simulations, exercises, instructor-led group discussion and personal reflection, this workshop will assist you in understanding how your organization can integrate circular economy practices such as product-as-a-service, sharing platforms, circular supplies, resource recovery and product life extension as well as other “green business” solutions. This is a practical, hands-on session and is designed to introduce you to actionable ideas you can pursue at your organization immediately. You will also learn strategies to create a vision for and pathway to a more circular organization – preventing waste while reducing inefficiencies.

Learning objectives include:

• Understand this emerging organizational trend, including a definition, drivers and business case
• Become familiar with different business model options for circular innovation
• Gain knowledge of how to advance circular initiatives as part of corporate strategy or waste management and procurement programs
• Learn strategies for circular design and product development
• Become aware of the different stakeholders – customers, suppliers, peers, government, investors – who need engagement, why and how
• Understand how innovators such as HP and Philips are forging a circular path for their organizations and customers
• Leave with ideas for how you can operationalize circular objectives in your own organization and become part of the circular economy

Instructor Biography

Coro is a Canadian pioneer, thought leader and visionary in marketplace innovation to advance social, environmental and financial progress. She works with businesses, governments and industry associations to create strategies and pursue business models to address social and environmental risks and opportunities that propel society towards a sustainable future. She regularly publishes research, tools and guides on sustainability and corporate social responsibility leadership on her website.

Coro has a tri-sector background in business, government and non-profit leadership working in social, environmental and financial roles. She has 20 years of experience as a Corporate Director, three as Board Chairperson and 6 years of industry association experience. Coro was named the top CSR consultant by the 2015 Clean50 for her leadership and impact in sustainability consulting in Canada. Coro has recently authored a number of publications for the National Zero Waste Council including case studies and a toolkit on circular business models and approaches. She also advises organizations on circular procurement strategies. Coro is a member of the City of Vancouver’s Zero Waste Advisory Panel and on the Technical Advisory Committee of the Circular Economy Innovation Lab.