Circularity & Waste Theatre

Building Effective Collaborations for Circular Supply Chains

11 Sep (Thur) Day 1 : 14:45 – 15:35

This panel discussion explores building effective collaborations for circular supply chains in Hong Kong. Experts will discuss transitioning from linear to circular models, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits while addressing Hong Kong’s unique context. Key topics include cross-supply chain collaboration, leveraging technology, the role of government policy, and engaging consumers.

Featuring diverse perspectives from business, and civil society, the panel provides a high-level overview and practical insights into the circular economy landscape. Attendees will gain insights into best practices and the importance of collaboration for a sustainable Hong Kong economy.

Learnings

  • Understand the critical shift from linear to circular supply chain models, and recognize the economic and environmental benefits this transition can bring to businesses in Hong Kong.
  • Explore the importance of cross-supply chain collaboration among businesses, and civil society to create effective circular systems. Share successful cases studies to enhance resource efficiency and innovation.
  • Gain insights into how technology can facilitate the circular economy by improving transparency and efficiency. Discuss the role of government policies in supporting circular initiatives and the ways businesses can engage consumers in sustainable practices.

Post-event Actions

  • Initiate discussions with stakeholders to create partnerships that promote circular supply chain practices.
  • Assess current supply chain practices to identify gaps and prioritise areas for transitioning to circular models.
  • Explore and pilot technologies like data analytics and blockchain to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.

Speakers

Katherine Chan

The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA)

Director, Business Development

Ms Katherine Chan, MBA
Director, Business Development
The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel

Ms Chan has extensive experiences in the full supply chain of textile and apparel industry globally. Her knowledge covers textile chemicals, yarn spinning and textile manufacturing and was in roles overseeing design to garment productions to retail in the USA, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Ms Chan has worked with textile factories in Asia and the Americas in product development as well as manufacturing. She was involved in R&D, marketing, operations and quality assurance.
Before joining HKRITA, Ms Chan was with BASF as global product manager as well as global marketing, strategic projects and regional product managements for different chemical segments. During the years, she has worked with global teams and management for chemical manufacturing around the world including Europe, the USA, Asia and Middle East.
Ms Chan received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from University of Wisconsin, Madison, an AAS degree in Fashion Buying and Merchandising from Fashion Institute of Technology, both in the USA and MBA from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

Chris DeArmitt

Phantom Plastics

Scientist

Dr. Chris DeArmitt is an internationally recognized scientist, author, and thought leader in materials science, known for his relentless commitment to uncovering and communicating the truth about plastics and their environmental impact. With a career spanning decades and grounded in rigorous, peer-reviewed research, Dr. DeArmitt stands at the forefront of dispelling myths and correcting misinformation pervasive in today’s environmental discourse.

Author of influential books such as “The Plastics Paradox” and “Shattering the Plastics Illusion,” Dr. DeArmitt combines scientific depth with engaging clarity, revealing through meticulous analysis how conventional narratives about plastics and their ecological footprint often diverge dramatically from reality. His work is driven by a passion for scientific integrity, using evidence-based reasoning to challenge widely held beliefs and inform sustainable policies.

As the founder of the Plastics Research Council, Dr. DeArmitt has created an essential resource dedicated to educating policymakers, industries, and the public about scientifically validated environmental facts. He has reviewed and synthesized over 5,000 scientific studies, becoming a leading authority whose insights influence both academic circles and global industries.

Beyond academia and research, Dr. DeArmitt is a sought-after keynote speaker, adept at translating complex scientific concepts into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide. His engaging presentations not only illuminate critical environmental truths but inspire thoughtful dialogue, driving meaningful change in how society perceives and interacts with plastics.

Dedicated to a future where environmental decisions are rooted in factual accuracy rather than misconceptions, Dr. DeArmitt continues to be an influential voice advocating for evidence-based environmental stewardship.

 

My 2025 Sustainability Goals

  • My goal is to educate people on the science of of plastics and the environment.
  • This will enable business people to make wiser decisions.
  • It will enable policy makers to make good policy that works.
  • A goal is to make sure people are informed rather than afraid about microplastics

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