Concept:
Step into the forefront of sustainability at the New Living Expo with this dynamic panel on zero-waste solutions, community action, and innovative approaches to a greener future. Featuring leaders behind OKAPI Reusables, the Story of the Cup, and the impactful work of Resilience Birthright Inc., this session highlights the power of education, entertainment, and community-driven action in addressing environmental challenges. We’ll also spotlight Race to Zero Waste’s zero-waste initiatives and welcome insights from a national organization scaling local success stories.
Discover how environmental education, tools, and calls to action—paired with community-driven solutions and circular economy innovations—are transforming schools, neighborhoods, and cities. Learn how grassroots efforts and collaborative innovations are creating real change, one project and reusable solution at a time.
Format:
- Opening Remarks: Framing the role of community and education in zero-waste and sustainability efforts.
- Speaker Presentations:
- Resilience Birthright Inc.: How environmental education, entertainment, and tools empower communities and schools to take meaningful action.
- OKAPI Reusables & Story of the Cup: A model for reducing single-use waste through storytelling and engagement.
- Race to Zero Waste: Broader strategies scaling grassroots successes to a national level.
- Panel Discussion: Examining how community action, innovative tools, and education intersect to build a zero-waste future.
- Audience Q&A: A space for attendees to connect, ask questions, and gain actionable insights.
Takeaway:
This panel is a call to action for individuals, educators, and community leaders. Attendees will leave inspired by success stories, equipped with practical tools, and empowered to champion zero-waste and sustainability efforts in their own communities. Together, we can educate, innovate, and restore the planet.
Jessica Jane Robinson is the CEO and Founder of Resilience Birthright Inc, a consultant NGO of the United Nations. She’s the creator of the Earth Warrior k-12 school program and Carbon Calculator, a zero-waste tool addressing climate change.
Sloane Pagal, has been managing programs with Zero Waste Sonoma for over five years. Notable projects include the beverage container recycling pilot, local foodware ordinance education, program development for reuse and repair, and construction & demolition materials tracking. They serve as Secretary of the Race to Zero Waste board, participate as a member of the Reuse Alliance board, and chair the organizing committee for North Bay Zero Waste Week, happening each October.
Christine Choi is a senior at Alameda High School with a strong background in environmental community action. She is the co-director of “Story of CUP,” which educates audiences about the excessive life cycle of cups. As co-president of her school’s environmental club Amplify, Christine has also worked with OKAPI Reusables and the City of Alameda. Christine is incredibly excited to share her story and tools to help build a more sustainable future!