Sustain Labs 2026 - Beyond the Bench
Join Future Fields for its annual community event, Sustain Labs: Beyond the Bench.
This event will be an evening of panel discussions and networking focusing on the policy initiatives, operational frameworks, and cultural shifts needed in sustainability across Edmonton’s diverse research sectors.
True sustainability requires looking “beyond the bench.” This event brings together researchers, industry leaders, policy-makers, and student advocates to create a collaborative space for discussing how organizations can integrate sustainable policies directly into their daily practices. Come connect with others committed to driving a sustainable future within their communities.
At the event, expect to:
💡 Discover how to integrate progressive environmental policy and green frameworks into daily research operations.
🛠️ Build a sustainability culture and gain strategies to advocate for lasting organizational shifts.
👥 Engage with leaders across science, health, and technology while connecting with a community dedicated to driving positive environmental impact.
Meet our speakers! 👨🔬👩🔬🌎
Brett Eigner: Brett is the founder of Sustain YEG and a leader at Impact Business Community, where he helps businesses turn sustainability intentions into practical results. Brett brings an operations background to this work, with a focus on process improvement and bringing a sustainability mindset into his day-to-day work.
Jalene Anderson-Baron: Jalene is Co-founder and COO at Future Fields, where she helps lead the development of next-generation sustainable biomanufacturing. She holds an MA in Human Geography and spent ten years in social research and public health before co-founding her company. Based in Edmonton, she focuses on scaling sustainable operational models and fostering climate-conscious innovation.
Karen Lee: Dr. Karen Lee is a U of A Preventive Medicine Professor who works at the intersection of urban design, public health, and sustainability. A former NYC Health Deputy and CDC officer, she partners with communities worldwide to build environments that support active living, equity, and chronic disease prevention.
Catherine Tays: Dr. Catherine Tays is the Strategic Initiatives Manager for Emerging Programs at CSA Group, where she leverages her PhD in Microbiology and Biotechnology to drive standards in sustainability, transit, and environmental management. She brings deep expertise across energy transition, circular economy initiatives, and science communications.
📸 Heads up! We'll be taking photos and videos to recap the event on our social channels. If you'd rather stay out of the spotlight, just let us know when you arrive!