Rethink with Circularity: Accelerating to Zero (A to Z) “Un-Panel” and Happy Hour

Join GBA and the Pittsburgh 2030 District at the Perkins Eastman Pittsburgh Studio for an “un-panel” and happy hour focused on circularity. 

The Perkins Eastman studio is an award-winning example of how thoughtful design can support both people and planet. This hybrid workspace prioritizes flexibility, wellness, and connection while embedding circular thinking. In this space, Perkins Eastman has repurposed existing materials, incorporated salvaged and low-impact finishes, and favored adaptable design strategies that extend the life of the space over time, making it a natural and compelling setting for conversations about materials, circularity, and the future of the built environment. 

Designed for professionals involved in building design, construction, and operations who are seeking actionable approaches to integrating circularity in their work, this interactive workshop and “un-panel” will surface opportunities and constraints of today’s materials infrastructure and explore how circularity principles can be applied in the built environment. 

The session will begin with an overview of circularity, setting a shared framework for understanding circular materials across scales, from products to buildings, to systems. Participants will then break into small groups and be challenged to rethink a product using one of six circular pathways: Reduce/Refuse, Redesign, Reuse, Repair, Recycle, or Repurpose. 

During the working session, groups will examine how circularity influences decision-making across roles, how professionals define and source “good” materials, and how teams advocate for materials when priorities compete. Groups will also consider market demand, regional limitations, and the investments or infrastructure needed to more broadly support circular materials. 

The session will reconvene for an open discussion, where groups will share their ideas and receive commentary and constructive pushback from a panel of local industry influencers. 

“Un-Panelists” Include

Ashley DiGregorio, Senior Director of Energy & Communities, Green Building Alliance 

Jane Hallinan, Interior Designer, Perkins Eastman 

Panagiotis (Noti) Mikroudis, Senior Advocacy Representative, Covestro

Omoye Aikhuele, Sustainable Procurement Specialist, City of Pittsburgh 

Participants Will

1. Describe core circular economy principles and how they apply to materials and products across scales in the built environment

2. Evaluate material decisions using circular pathways and identify strategies for advocating for circular materials within project teams, organizations, and client relationships

3. Recognize market, regional, and infrastructure considerations that influence the adoption of circular materials and practices

4. Accelerate to Zero: Explore where circular principles have the potential to support 2030 District and Resilient Community energy, carbon, and water goals. 

More About Materials & Resources Week

Join GBA for a week-long focus on the materials, products, systems, and innovations that are shaping the built environment. Throughout the week, participants will engage in expert-led deep dives, interactive sessions, and site- or product- focused learning opportunities that spotlight the lifecycle of building materials, from sourcing to performance, reuse, and impact. 

Discover more events happening this week by visiting the Materials & Resources Week Home Page. 

Geared toward architects, designers, buildings, and sustainability professionals, this week offers rich opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders, share challenges and solutions, and discover emerging strategies that support a healthier, more resilient, and more responsible built environment.