MyWestworld

EPIC Sustainable Living Expo

Posted on 07. May, 2009 by Bernice Paul in Living

What I’ll Be Looking Out For

The massive green consumer tradeshow takes place this coming weekend – May 8 through 10 – at the brand new Vancouver Convention Centre. While I used to feel only skeptical about these events (supposedly they give us keen consumers some reason to shop “guilt-free”), I think people are getting smarter about greenwashing and asking tougher questions of their vendors. I hope so, anyway.

More than just an impressive list of exhibitors, though, EPIC planners have put together a series of hands-on workshops (sustainable gardening, energy efficiency at home) and lecture-style talks (“What’s Next for Obama’s Green Plan?” and  ”The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry”) – certain to appeal to a wide audience over the three-day event.

What am I most looking forward to? The Greening of the Film Industry in B.C., with its strong panel of executives from all along the value-chain of the movie-making business. Why? After going on a quick tour of our local carbon-neutral Vancouver Film Studios, I’m eager to hear more about what production studios are doing about their waste and emissions.

Then there’s ecological economist Mark Anielski, who will be sharing insights on The Economics of Happiness. Maybe he can share with us why shopping makes some of us so happy.

And of course, the daily eco-fashion shows might not inspire my credit card but will definitely inspire my imagination. Can’t wait!

Tags: Events, Sustainability