DETAILS
Ticketed
Robin Boyd Foundation
290 Walsh Street, South Yarra VIC, Australia
At Breathe, they believe in sharing everything they know about sustainability and circularity. More importantly, they believe in the power of collaboration — working together with designers, suppliers, manufacturers, and policymakers to tackle the challenges our industry faces today. They’re united by a common goal: a circular future. Together, we’re stronger, and together, we can drive meaningful change.
In this panel discussion, Breathe are opening their doors to share their knowledge, tricks, and methodologies for circularity. They’ll introduce you to the incredible people who support them on this journey and who are shaping the future of a circular economy. The panel will feature a diverse group of designers, builders, suppliers, creatives, and policymakers, each sharing insights into how they embed circularity into their work. By the end of the discussion, every attendee will leave with actionable steps to help build a sustainable future.
This event is designed to spark a conversation about real strategies, practical implementation, and the tangible impact we can all make at various levels of the industry.
Participants
Jeremy McLeod
Jeremy is the founding Director of Breathe, a studio recognised by their peers as one of Australia’s leading architectural practices. Breathe have been recognised with over 20 Australian Institute of Architect awards, including the 2018 Melbourne Prize. Jeremy is the Recipient of the 2018 Victorian Chapter, the President’s Prize and received the 2016 Leadership in Sustainability Prize at the Australian Institute of Architects. He regularly speaks at industry conferences, educational events, TEDx, and runs the Nightingale Night School masters course at Melbourne University. As a founding signatory of Australian Architects Declare Jeremy led the push for practices to become certified carbon neutral, which saw over 200 firms from the architecture industry and beyond publicly commit to going carbon neutral in 2020.
Ellie May
Ellie May is a Business Development Manager at Autex Acoustics, with experience across various sectors, including architecture, design, and construction. She collaborates with clients to deliver thoughtful acoustic solutions that balance functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Passionate about carbon-neutral and sustainable design, Ellie is dedicated to creating sound-conscious spaces that have a positive environmental impact.
Vanessa Katsanevakis
Vanessa Katsanevakis is the director of Sussex Taps, a true Australian manufacturer and the only to offer carbon neutral tapware and showers in the world.“Our story is built around a family endeavour: to build an Australian business with sustainability at its heart. Creating sustainable and ethical solutions is key to our collective future. We have always wanted to face this challenge with a promise to do it the right way,” says Katsanevakis.Vanessa's achievements speak of her ability to lead under pressure; transforming a tapware business she took over from her father into an Australian manufacturing success story. In 2018, Vanessa was named Young Manufacturer of the Year and in 2021, Vanessa contributed towards Victoria Summit, providing overarching strategic advice in a select group of Victoria’s thought leaders, for post COVID-19 recovery and prosperity planning.
Paul Rosenberg
With over 25 years in the construction industry and 6 years dedicated to commercial demolition and de-fit, Paul is a seasoned leader in the field of sustainable building practices. As Co-Founder and Director of Revert, established to provide pathway solutions within the commercial interiors and fit out sector, he has driven circularity in the construction and demolition industry, integrating the 3R principles of Recycled, Redivert & Revert, ensuring 90% of materials on all sites are diverted from landfill.In addition to his role at Revert, Paul is National Manager for ALD Expert Demo, where he is innovating best practice when it comes to circularity in the demolition and construction industry.A graduate of the University of Technology Sydney with a Bachelor of Construction Management, his areas of expertise include circular economy principles, responsible resource recovery and reducing environmental impact through innovative demolition practices.He is passionate about community and collaboration in the construction industry and is dedicated to revolutionising the way waste is viewed in the construction industry.
Irma Del Valle Nachon
Irma is an architect specialising in sustainable and regenerative design, with a deep focus on circularity and the creation of holistic, future-focused built environments. She leads Breathe's Circularity team, bringing a thoughtful, multidisciplinary approach that integrates research, innovation, and future-forward solutions to drive meaningful change. With over 10 years of experience spanning Mexico, Europe, and Australia, Irma’s career is defined by creativity, leadership, and a commitment to challenging the status quo. She is dedicated to redefining our built environment, creating spaces that are both impactful and regenerative.