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Overview

In recognition of Earth Month, PMI SWOC invites members and guests to join us on April 23rd to learn about the circular economy.

What does the circular economy mean in practice, and why is it becoming increasingly relevant for project professionals? In this interactive session, Andrew Telfer will explore how circular thinking is moving beyond sustainability theory and becoming an important economic and operational strategy for organizations across Canada.

Drawing on real-world work in the built environment, including construction, renovation, demolition systems, procurement, and regional circular initiatives, Andrew will show how circular approaches are already being applied through pilots, infrastructure development, and strategic collaboration. The session will then connect these ideas directly to project management, highlighting how a circular lens can be applied across the project lifecycle, from planning and design to procurement, execution, and long-term value capture.

This Earth Month event will be delivered in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend either in person at Innovation Works in London, Ontario, or virtually via Zoom. The session is designed to be interactive, thought-provoking, and practical, with discussion encouraged throughout and time included for audience Q&A.

Key Takeaways

• Understand what the circular economy is and why it is gaining traction as both a sustainability and economic strategy
• Learn why SMEs are central to scaling circular solutions across Canada
• Explore real-world examples of circular approaches in construction, renovation, demolition, procurement, and regional infrastructure
• Discover how project managers can apply circular thinking across planning, design, procurement, delivery, and benefits realization
• Consider the practical implications for cost, risk, schedule, stakeholder coordination, and long-term value
• Reflect on how project professionals can contribute to more sustainable and resilient outcomes through their projects

PDU Triangle Area + Number of PDUs

1.0 PDU
Triangle Area: Business Acumen / Ways of Working

Speaker Bio

Andrew Telfer is one of Canada’s leading voices in sustainability and circular economy innovation. With nearly two decades of experience spanning government, retail, and nonprofit sectors, he brings a strategic and results-driven approach to advancing circular systems and climate-aligned business practices. He works with Circular Innovation Council to help design practical, scalable circular solutions that support stronger supply chains, smarter resource use, and reduced environmental impact.

Previously, Andrew served as Acting Executive Director of the Smart Cities Office at the City of Guelph, where he oversaw nationally recognized initiatives including Our Food Future and the Circular Opportunity Innovation Launchpad. He also served as Vice-President at the Retail Council of Canada and as Walmart Canada’s first Sustainability Manager. Andrew is a Clean50 honouree and holds a degree in Geography from the University of British Columbia.

Event Agenda

6:30 PM – Arrival and networking for in-person attendees
6:45 PM – Opening Remarks (Hybrid Event Begins)
6:50 PM – Andrew Telfer - The Circular Economy
7:30 PM – Hybrid Event Close
7:30 PM – Networking
8:00 PM – Event Close

Location

In Person: Innovation Works, London, Ontario
Virtual: Zoom

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