The Future of Sustainability is Collaboration: A Panel Discussion at the AIA Utah Conference

The built environment plays a crucial role in our efforts to combat climate change. As we strive for a more sustainable future, we must accelerate the transformation of our buildings and infrastructure. The AEC industry has made significant strides in recent years, but there’s still a long way to go.

That’s why Griffin EnerG Consulting is proud to sponsor a panel discussion at the upcoming AIA Utah Conference, September 25 – 26, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah This dynamic panel, co-hosted by AIA Utah, Utah ASHRAE, and The Governor’s Office of Energy Development’s Building Talks program, will feature leaders from three prominent organizations at the forefront of sustainable design and construction: the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), and the Green Building Initiative (GBI).

Description

Over the last 20 years, architects have seen unprecedented evolution in building performance, building science, technology development, and data-driven design. However, we are still lagging behind the Architecture 2030 goal of making carbon-neutral buildings the standard for new construction.

We have invited leaders from the US Green Building Council (USGBC), International Living Future Institute (ILFI), and Green Building Initiative (GBI) to share trends and innovations in green building practices. These experts will also discuss how architects can work together to achieve our carbon-neutral vision using a common set of definitions and metrics.

Meet the Panelists

USGBC: Lisa Stanley

Lisa Stanley works closely with industry leaders across the various market sectors as they implement green building practices. She listens and learns generating customer-specific solutions; always bringing the market knowledge back to USGBC/GBCI to support and enhance products and customer service. Lisa is known for both her technical knowledge and ability to support large-scale clients and projects. She currently maintains the LEED AP ID+C credential and is proficient in the LEED for New Construction, Commercial Interiors and Existing Buildings rating systems. Lisa’s experience is boosted by the following legacy licensing and credentials: LEED AP O+M, Certified Energy Manager; Certified Property Manager; Real Estate Broker’s License for the State of Colorado. With 14 years under her belt as a commercial real estate property manager, four as a sustainability consultant, and 12 at USGBC Lisa understands the market and brings a unique perspective to USGBC.

GBI: Sumayyah Theron

CEO and Founder, Avant-garde Sustainability Solutions
Incoming Chair Elect for the Green Building Initiative, Inc.

Sumayyah Theron is the CEO and Founder of Avant-garde Sustainability Solutions and serves as Board member and incoming Chair Elect for the Green Building Initiative, Inc., an international organization providing green building standards and certification to the global commercial building industry.

As a sustainability expert with 20+ years of experience in sustainable building design, project management and green building certifications, Sumayyah Theron oversees the development and execution of comprehensive carbon reduction strategies while counseling clients on sustainable practices, green building certifications, and emerging trends. She was named to Engineered Systems’ “Twenty to Watch: Women in HVAC” in 2024 and was named a Green Building Initiative Advocacy Ambassador in 2023. She was also named 2024 Crain's Chicago Business Notable Leader in Sustainability.

Specializing in energy efficiency, sustainability, and wellness for commercial real estate projects, Sumayyah works closely with key stakeholders, including architectural, developer, owner teams, government agencies, industry associations, and technology providers. Her mission is to propel the design and operation of high-performance buildings, fostering healthier spaces, elevating occupant comfort, while driving down both initial and operating costs.

Theron holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Jordan University of Science and Technology and a Master of Science degree in Energy and Sustainable Building Design from De Montfort University. She resides in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

ILFI: Lisa Moore

Lisa Carey Moore, LEED AP, LFA, is the Director of Project Engagement, Buildings, for the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), where she inspires, supports, and celebrates clients pursuing our Living Building Challenge, Zero Energy, and Zero Carbon Certifications. She leads a team of technical specialists who are passionate about their work to ensure our clients have what they need to address climate, health, and equity, key elements of regenerative design. Previously, she spent a decade as a sustainability analyst and consultant for LEED and LBC projects, becoming a key industry expert in healthier building products. She’s successfully advocated for and achieved ingredient substitutions in dozens, resulting in better products for her project teams and the wider materials marketplace. She believes everyone has the potential to catalyze change, no matter what their role is in bringing a project to reality. Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn to discuss your vision for regenerative buildings.

Join the Conversation

This is your chance to ask questions and learn from some of the most respected leaders in the field. The panel discussion will be followed by a Q&A session, so come prepared to engage in a lively dialogue.

Event Details

Free parking is available in the Central Garage directly across the street from the Garff Building. Please follow the signs for the exact parking location.

Important Registration Information

Once on the AIA Event Registration page, you must specifically elect to attend the Panel. Follow the instructions below.

Navigate to the Registration page.
Click the red “Register” button.
Scroll down to find the registration section.
Complete the Attendee Info tab.
Toggle to the Attendee Selections tab.
Make your desired selections, but be certain to scroll to the bottom and select the Panel. Look for “Panel: The Future of Sustainability is Collaboration”
After verifying you have made all your selections and your Attendee Info is correct, click “Save & Finalize Registration”
Follow any additional instructions on the AIA website.

Don’t Miss This Opportunity

Whether you’re an architect, engineer, contractor, or simply someone who cares about the future of our planet, this panel discussion is not to be missed. Join us as we explore how to turn our industry’s green goals into reality.

We look forward to seeing you there!