With sustainability at the forefront of business leaders’ minds more than ever before, Circularity 2024 will drive actionable change towards implementing a more circular future as Australia forges on a path to net zero by 2050.
From the United Nations International Resources Panel and the National Climate Change Authority to Planet Ark and CSIRO, leaders in circular economy philosophy say the goal to reach net zero is attainable, but only if businesses and consumers alike recognise the importance of environmentally responsible production, consumption, and emissions abatement.
Circularity 2024 will bring together the most prominent industry voices from Australia and abroad to share knowledge and actionable steps for our circular transition, including keynote presentations by the internationally renowned Dr Janez Potočnik, Co-Chair of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) International Resources Panel, and Matt Kean, the newly-appointed Chair of the Climate Change Authority.
Potočnik will bring his international expertise on the importance of resource efficiency in creating a circular economy, while Kean will reflect on his experience as former Treasurer and Energy Minister for NSW and in his new role to discuss the opportunities available for decarbonisation across Australia.
The conference will be held at the 6-star rated Doltone House Darling Island in Sydney on November 26-27. Presented by Diversified Communications in partnership with Planet Ark’s Australian Circular Economy Hub (ACE Hub), the event brings together Australia’s leading sustainability experts, business leaders and government representatives to encourage uptake of circular economy principles in the sectors of the economy causing greatest environmental impact.
This year’s theme will encourage those delegates to consider how they might rethink supply chains, explore systems design, maximise resource efficiency and, most importantly, collaborate with each other to contribute to sustainable development. This year’s program includes discussions between a variety of government officials, business leaders, and academics, including Christina Tonkin, Managing Director of Corporate Finance, ANZ; Erika Martin, Head of Sustainability, Country Road Group; John Thwaites, Chair, Monash Sustainable Development Institute and Climateworks Centre; Dr. Heinz Schandl, Circular Economy Lead, CSIRO; Rebecca Gilling, CEO, Planet Ark; and many more. View the ongoing list of speakers here and conference program here.
“Transitioning to a circular economy underpinned by net zero is not just a goal; it is a necessity for cutting Australia’s emissions and achieving our climate targets,” said Matt Kean, Chair of the Climate Change Authority.
“We have tremendous opportunities for decarbonisation across all sectors. Circular economy practices present a remarkable opportunity, potentially offering 45 per cent of the global reductions needed to combat climate change.
“By embracing strategies that promote resource efficiency and waste reduction, we can not only mitigate emissions but also drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance our energy security.”