Rethinking Business – Thriving in the era of resource scarcity and well-being

Abstract

As we've reached planetary boundaries, it is difficult to remain hopeful for a sustainable future...but it is possible. For meaningful change, our two speakers argue that we need to recalibrate our current systems, and businesses will play a key role in the transition.

Katia Vladimirova will introduce the concept of sufficiency, that is, the level of consumption necessary to live well, and use it to discuss reducing volumes, effective and transparent communication from companies, and sustainable business models. Kelsey O'Connor will describe how businesses can harness the power of workplace well-being to improve both workplace outcomes and sustainability.

Following their talks, all participants will be encouraged to contribute with questions and/or comments.

Speakers

Katia Vladimirova

Katia Vladimirova conducts cutting-edge research on sustainable fashion consumption, degrowth, and systemic transformation towards sustainability. She researches the process of social change towards sustainability. Her two areas of focus are sustainable fashion consumption and consumption ethics more broadly. Katia consults international organizations, businesses and NGOs on issues related to sustainability and social change. In 2022, Katia received the Circular by Design Challenge Award in Luxembourg for her sustainable underwear brand ‘well-rounded’.

Kelsey J. O’Connor

Kelsey J. O’Connor assesses the causes and consequences of subjective well-being, with the goal of redefining progress in national discourse. He is a Research Economist at STATEC, the official statistical office of Luxembourg, and serves as Associate Editor with the Journal of Happiness Studies, on the Executive Committee for the International Society for Quality-of-Life Studies, and on the Advisory Panel for the U.K.’s What Works Centre for Wellbeing.

Filip Westerlund (moderator)

Filip Westerlund is a strong advocate for circular economy. In 2021, Filip received the Circular by Design Challenge Award in Luxembourg as the founder of OurChoice. OurChoice makes circular fashion sneakers.

Structure of the event

17H-17H10: welcome

17H10-17H15: introduction by Anne-Marie Loesch

17H15-17H45: speakers’ presentation

17H45-18H15: discussion with participants

18H15-19H: drinks, appertizers and networking

Drinks and vegan appetizers will be served.