Resource Revolution: Models to Turn Local Waste into Community Prosperity

– DETAILS –

Moving from aspiration to hands-on action, this event will bring practical ideas on how communities can create new circular businesses, jobs and social enterprises. Let’s move the conversation from “managing a problem” (waste) to “creating a future” (prosperity).

Join us to learn about three distinct but complementary approaches to community-level circularity – repair/reuse social enterprises, material recovery operations, and full system transformation.  Learn more about mattress recycling social enterprises, footwear repair businesses, and how to create a full circular system, in addition to other examples that you can start working on tomorrow!

Circularity does not need to be complicated, just collaborative. You will learn from:

PACE Penticton | Helping communities and social organizations successfully start and run a mattress recycling program that provides a simple, low-tech solution to mattress recycling.

Awl Together Leather | Learn why rural shoe and gear repair matters and how to get started. This underserved niche is a perfect fit for a rural focus and fills the gap with a community-focused circular business.

Town of Banff | Building circularity in a tourism-dependent community: tackling food waste, single-use items, and creating circular systems in a unique mountain town context where visitor impacts amplify waste challenges.

Synergy Foundation | The economic and entrepreneurial side of circularity and how to inspire it locally tomorrow. Our own green business and circular economy experts will help us round out the bigger picture of economic development meets action and entrepreneurism.

Vignettes

Verbal highlights from other great organizations, including:

Better Buckets | An injection molding and recycling company founded by a local entrepreneur in Chilliwack, BC, in 2019, with the belief that efficiency and sustainability can align with sound economics, the founder has made it his mission to build a circular system, making quality plastic products more sustainably and cost-effectively with a local focus.

EZ Blocks | A Canadian-made modular building system designed to simplify construction—no tools, glue, or waste required. The blocks are crafted from reclaimed wood, free from VOCs and harmful chemicals, making them a safer, eco-conscious choice for indoor and outdoor builds and are 100% reusable and recyclable.

7 Leagues Leather  | A woman-owned tannery and wholesale fish leather manufacturer combining circular economy production with a commitment to positive environmental and social impact and the highest quality of craft. Our bio-based leather processing uses plant compounds and rescued fish skins that would otherwise be discarded.

– COST–

Another popular BOGO event!
BYO Economic Development colleague, a local entrepreneur, or a social organization leader to learn along with you.

2 people for the price of 1:  $23 CWMA Members | $28 Non Members 

+GST.  CWMA’s operations are supported wholly by events, dedicated patronage from sponsors, and our membership. We are grateful for your attendance. Differential pricing is available for students and non-profits, please be in touch. | Am I a member?

– AGENDA –

Virtual Doors Open at 9:50 AM for visiting and a/v check
10:00 AM — Welcome Everyone
10:10 AM — Presentations + Vignette with Q&A
11:17 AM — Open Discussion
11:28 AM — Farewell

As always, a follow-up/recap will be sent after the event.

– VIRTUAL NOTES –

CWMA uses the Zoom Platform for events. Zoom Link is sent the DAY BEFORE the event.