Reimagining Waste – Circular Design for a Sustainable Society

Moderator: Jim Gall

Speakers: Grant Gabriel - Program Director, ARRC, City of Gold Coast, Dr Ruby Michaels - Founding Director, Green Infrastructure Research Labs (GIRLS), Griffith University, Pawan Govind - National Resource Recovery Manager, Endeavour Foundation and Andrew Noonan- Andrew Noonan Architect, Co-Chair AIA Queensland Chapter Climate Action and Sustainability Committee.

As climate change and resource scarcity intensify, sustainable, circular design is more urgent than ever. The construction industry, a major source of carbon emissions and waste, offers huge potential for transformation through innovation and collaboration.

By reusing materials and designing for longevity and social benefit, circular economy principles shift waste from a problem to a resource.

Our panellists—from architecture, government, academia, and social sectors—will explore how to move beyond linear consumption toward regeneration, resilience, and equity. They’ll share insights on turning construction waste into green spaces, sustainable buildings and employment opportunities for a low-carbon, inclusive future.