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Building Sustainable Communities

Richard Matthew is keynote speaker at event subtitled Driving Sustainability, Circularity, and Equality
DATE
Wed, 10/29/2025 - 4:00pm - 6:30pm PDT
LOCATION
IKEA, 1475 South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa 92626
DETAILS

Richard Matthew, a UC Irvine professor of urban planning & public policy, director of the Climate & Urban Sustainability Program (CUSP) and a senior fellow with the International Institute for Sustainable Development in Geneva, is the keynote speaker for what organizers have dubbed "an insightful evening of sustainability."

Hosted by CUSP, IKEA Costa Mesa and the Orange County Power Authority, the free event brings together local leaders, businesses and partners to explore impactful sustainability initiatives and innovative solutions for the future of Orange County. Dr. Matthew and expert panelists share their knowledge on advancing sustainable practices in our communities. This event also offers an excellent opportunity to network with Orange County leaders and collaborate on driving positive change.

Moderator Tristan Miller of California Green Business leads these panelists:

  • Susan Sonne, chair of the Orange County Power Authority
  • Selene Lawrence, energy and outreach administrator with the City of Irvine
  • Derek Sabori, founder of the Underswell and the School of Understanding Corporate Program
  • Adam Ereth of Someone Cares Soup Kitchen and co-developer of the Sustainable Production for Entertainment Certificate (SPEC)


While all are welcome to the event, please RSVP to guarantee a seat. Here is the agenda:
 

4:00 PM - 4:15 PM

Attendee Check-In

Attendees can check-in as early as 3:45PM

4:15 PM - 4:25 PM

Welcome & IKEA Introduction

IKEA will welcome guests and share about the IKEA Foundation and purpose of the event.

4:25 PM - 5:25 PM

Panelist Discussion

Panelists will introduce themselves and share insights to their work and ways they are building sustainable communities through their roles.

5:25 PM - 5:35 PM

FIKA (means break in Swedish)

A small break to enjoy snacks and refreshments.

5:35 PM - 6:00 PM

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Richard Matthew

The UC Irvine scholar and internationally renowned expert on sustainability will take the stage.

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Networking & Tabling

Visit the tables, meet new people and build a network of strong sustainability partners in our community as we strive to build a more sustainable future for all.



Questions? Contact Addie Aubley at aaubley@uci.edu or Vanessa Pasillas at vanessa.pasillas@ingka.ikea.com.

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This is an illo from the event next to photo of Richard Matthew
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