Economics of Going Green

DETAILS:
Being eco-friendly doesn’t only mean benefits for the environment. Hear from local and international businesses that have taken on the mission of corporate responsibility by using and developing green technology. Has it made them dollars and sense to take the sustainability approach? Note: You must purchase an All Access Pass to attend this panel
PROFILES
	Shawn Burns, MBA (Moderator) Founder and CEO, Carbon Credit Corp Shawn is the founder of Carbon Credit Corp and the Carbon Smart(TM) brand. He formed CCC as an independent, for-profit entity that believes market–based approaches to environmental problems offer the best potential for success and sustainability. Previously a veteran of “business for development” activities, for the past 15 years he has been applying innovative information and communication technologies (ICT’s) to sustainable development challenges in over 25 emerging nations in Africa, Central America, and Asia. Mr. Burns has over 15 years experience in environmental management and Climate Change. In the past he founded a sustainability division (The ICT Development Group) within a major public company (MacDonald Dettwiler Associates) Mr. Burns is a sustainability and greenhouse gas expert who holds degrees from the University of Western Ontario; Queen’s University, and Cornell University . As well he is a Certified Management Accountant and a member of COSAA (Carbon Offset Supplier Association of Alberta), the EMA (Environmental Markets Association)
	Alex Tu Chief Technology Officer, BC Hydro Alex Tu received his bachelor’s degree in Science from McGill University and a master’s degree in Public Policy from Simon Fraser University, and has worked in the energy sector in Ontario and British Columbia for nearly 10 years in roles related to technology innovation and sustainability. Alex has been with BC Hydro since 2004 when he joined the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Program, and he is currently a Sustainability Specialist within the Office of the Chief Technology Officer. Alex has been involved in developing BC Hydro’s leadership in the use of sustainable energy technologies, with specific emphasis in finding ways to achieve BC Hydro’s ambitious environmental long-term goal of no-net environmental impact. Alex has assisted BC Hydro participate in several collaborations with leading sustainability organizations, such as Hydrogen & Fuel Cells Canada, the World Resources Institute, the Ocean Renewable Energy Group, and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.
	Mike Gardner CEO, Recombo Inc. Mike Gardner is the chief executive officer of Recombo Inc.  A client focused leader, Mike is involved directly with customers to ensure quality and satisfaction. Mike is the past President of ERP software manufacturer Cayenta where he was responsible for developing the strategic vision for the company and all of its products. Mike grew Cayenta significantly during his 6 year tenure, achieving strong financial results and increased levels of customer satisfaction. Mike has over 15 years of management experience and a strong strategic operations background in software development, transportation/distribution, and retail e-commerce.  He is the President of the Board of Directors of the ALS Society of British Columbia and a member of the Board of Directors of ALS Canada. Mike's MBA is from Queen's University. His undergraduate work was in Economics and Statistics at Ryerson University in Toronto and in International Business at Hanzehogeschool in the Netherlands.
	Ifny Lachance Director, Free Geek Ifny Lachance is an adventurer, educator and founding director of Vancouver's FREE GEEK Community Technology Centre, a computer re-use and ethical recycling non-profit organisation. The FREE GEEK model lashes technology to integrity and interdependence, promoting ethical computer recycling, community empowerment, and sustainable software. With roots in remote northern Canadian communities, Ifny has since been active on the global stage in diverse capacities. For example, in Japan, she taught experimental music and public relations; in Iran, she lectured on war and photodocumented everyday life; in Lebanon, she taught photography and solidarity computing. Since returning to Vancouver, Ifny has become a potent force behind community-driven e-waste reduction strategies and repurposing. In addition to her work for FREE GEEK, she is currently co-developing an accountable computer re-use component of the provincial e-waste management program. Her uses of technology reveal a strong commitment to transparency, accessibility and environmental accountability. Her marketing skill and creativity have improved refugee protections in Japan, increased access to technology for Iranian women, and sparked numerous local projects and events in the Cascadian cycling community. She hosts and produces Pedal Revolutionary Radio, a community radio show touting conscionable transportation, sustainability and citizen mobilisation. Her mainstream media appearances have included CBC, Get Connected TV, Business in Vancouver, and the Lab with Leo; she has been published in the Guardian, L'Express Pacifique, Common Ground, Northern Journal and Japan Times. She is also often seen on her bicycle.