The Centre for Climate and Business Solutions at UBC Sauder School of Business recently sponsored five student delegates passionate about sustainability, including three Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) students and two Master of Business Administration (MBA) students, to attend the Globe Forum. This event is recognized as the largest and longest-running sustainable business summit and innovation showcase in North America. The Globe Forum gave the students a unique opportunity to observe and engage directly with global leaders in environmental stewardship and business innovation.
Here's an overview of their key takeaways and the sessions that made a significant impact on them:
Samar Devraj
Bcom student passionate about marketing, behaviour change, and sustainability
I was consistently blown away by GLOBE Forum 2024: the technology needed to run the huge conference, the food, the views of the Vancouver Convention Centre, and of course, the sheer number of change-makers and depth of influential conversation in one place.
It was really inspiring to see the world’s most powerful businesses restructuring their channels and value propositions to fight climate change. But most importantly, you could tell GLOBE did everything they could to create an inclusive space, with moving Indigenous performances and speeches, as well as a performance and panel hosted by drag queen Pattie Gonia (slayed!).
My favourite panel was called "From the Micro to the Macro: Unpacking Plastic’s Place in a Regenerative Future" where they spoke about how the right legislation is an incentive for innovation, and how the laggards of recycling don't move without incentives. Also, punishments or bans must be backed up with incentives for a better alternative to truly facilitate sustainable behaviour change (eg: disposable cup bans + reusable cup incentives). These learnings were really insightful to me as a marketing and sustainability student passionate about enabling sustainable action amongst different stakeholders.
Ella Cheah
Bcom student specializing in Business Technology Management with a concentration in Sustainability and Social Impact
I had an amazing experience at the GLOBE Forum! Attending sessions held by an incredible group of change-makers provided me with invaluable insights that I am excited to carry forward into my career.
A session that particularly stood out to me was called, "Justice at the Crossroads: The Role of Intersectional Environmentalism.” This discussion underscored the importance of addressing environmental issues through a lens that acknowledges and addresses social inequalities and was a reminder of the importance of inclusive approaches in tackling climate solutions.
It was such a fulfilling experience to meet and connect with other like-minded youth delegates! I was continuously inspired by other changemakers’ unique experiences and interests.
Elizabeth Chung
Bcom student specializing in Accounting
The GLOBE Forum was an amazing experience! Being able to listen to a multitude of changemakers lead the way in raising awareness on specific climate change and sustainability concerns was eye-opening. My favourite discussion I listened to was “Centering Indigenous Rights, Equity Partnerships and Indigenous Ways of Knowing for a Regenerative Future”. The speakers gave such a profound conversation about ways to include Indigenous practices in the energy transition that I will carry forward into my professional career. As well, it was great to get to meet so many youth delegates that are passionate about these issues and engage in many different conversations with them over these past three days. I will never forget this and cannot thank CCBS enough for this fantastic opportunity.
Zolzaya Jargalsaikhan
MBA student in #climatetrack specializing in sustainability and ESG
I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to attend the conference at the Globe forum. The insights gained into the current global trends, and the parallels I was able to draw between international efforts, Canada's initiatives, and the situation in my home country have been invaluable. The forum has not only broadened my perspective on effective climate action but also deepened my understanding of the intricate tapestry of policies and strategies being employed around the world to address our environmental challenges. Thank you for facilitating such a rich exchange of knowledge and for contributing to my professional growth in the realm of climate advocacy.
Michelle Siaril
MBA student specializing in sustainability and finance
Being able to attend the Globe Forum 2024 was an enriching experience for which I am profoundly thankful. The event featured inspiring speakers, diverse topics, and facilitated valuable connections with changemakers in sustainability and climate change. Among the key learnings, I realized the importance of prioritizing progress over perfection, recognizing the crucial role of leadership in driving meaningful changes, and understanding the significance of building meaningful collaborations with Indigenous communities to guide this transition. One standout panel, 'The Power of Net-Zero Policy: Creating the Conditions for System-Wide Success,' shed light on the uncertain regulatory environment in Canada at the moment. It emphasized how well-developed policy execution is vital for successful public-private partnerships that bring benefits to people, the planet, and profit. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the CCBS for making this experience possible.