Los Angeles area Event report • Committees
European Panel Discussion: Sustainable engagements that change the world.
Co-organized with the British American Business Council of Los Angeles (BABC-LA), GABA Southern California - German American Business Association, and the Italy America Chamber of Commerce West (IACCW), the event brought together European perspectives and California innovation to explore practical pathways toward a more sustainable future.
Hosted by Florim Ceramiche, the discussion featured an outstanding panel of experts:
- Alexandra Farah, Sustainability Strategist and Co-founder of Recurvence
- Julia Koerner,, UCLA Associate Adjunct Professor
- Andrea Landi, Founder and President of Landi Technologies
- Andrea Perspicace, Business Development Regional Accounts Manager at Florim Ceramiche
The conversation was moderated by Hanako Boulangeat, Founder & CEO of Earth Boutique, Advisory Board Member at the Laguna Ocean Foundation, and LA/OC City Lead at Women and Climate.
Throughout the discussion, panelists explored how organizations can integrate sustainability into every stage of their operations, from product design and material selection to manufacturing, construction, and consumer engagement.
One of the most impactful insights shared during the evening was that up to 80% of a product's end-of-life impact is determined during the design phase, long before production, distribution, or disposal are considered. This powerful reminder reinforced the importance of embedding sustainability into decision-making from the very beginning.
The panel highlighted several innovative approaches currently reshaping industries:
- Circular fashion solutions, including 3D-printed products designed with reuse and recyclability in mind
- New sustainable materials and technologies helping companies reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance and quality
- Scalable B-Corp and sustainability-driven business models demonstrating that profitability and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand
- Sustainable building practices and design innovations contributing to more resilient and resource-efficient spaces
Drawing from experiences across Europe and California, the speakers shared concrete examples of how businesses are successfully navigating the transition toward more sustainable operations while creating long-term value.
A common theme emerged throughout the evening: the need for greater education and awareness around sustainability. Whether among consumers, businesses, or policymakers, continued education remains essential to accelerating meaningful change and empowering organizations to make informed decisions.
Following the panel discussion, attendees continued the conversation during a networking reception, connecting sustainability leaders from sectors including design, mobility, fashion, technology, and public policy.
The event demonstrated the power of international collaboration in addressing global challenges. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise from across Europe and California, participants explored actionable solutions and strengthened relationships that can help drive future progress.
Together, these conversations remind us that progress happens when leaders align, share knowledge, and take action.
