Closing the Loop: Building Resilient Local Economies Through Circular Solutions 

Date: Thursday, September 17
Time: 2:00pm
Room: Salon A

Speakers:
Georgia Lavender  – Managing Director, Synergy Foundation

Description: As Canadian communities navigate resource constraints, supply chain volatility, and growing sustainability mandates, transitioning from a traditional linear "take-make-waste" model to a circular economy offers a clear path toward long-term economic resilience. Localized circular strategies do more than reduce environmental footprints—they foster new supply chain linkages, lower operational costs for local businesses, and unlock untapped entrepreneurship and job creation. 

 In this practical breakout session, Georgia Lavender from the Synergy Foundation explores how Economic Development Officers (EDOs) can spearhead circular economy initiatives within their regions. Grounded in hands-on experience and real-world Canadian community case studies, this presentation demystifies circular principles and outlines actionable frameworks for identifying local waste-to-resource opportunities, supporting business adaptation, and building collaborative, sustainable regional ecosystems.