Navigating an Evolving Sustainable Built Environment: Delivering Net Zero Carbon and Climate Resilience

Dr. Mei Ren has a wide range of design, research and sustainability management experience from over 25 years of working with all stakeholders of built environment and construction industry. She is particularly interested in developing practical solutions of sustainability and climate resilience strategies. She started her career at the UK's Building Research Establishment before earning a PhD in building physics. She is a Chartered Engineer, a Fellow of The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). She was awarded the inaugural NCE/ICE's Sustainability Champion of the Year in 2014 and was appointed a Royal Academy of Engineering Visiting Professor in Environmental Sustainability at the University of Manchester in 2015-2018. She is currently a Partner at Buro Happold. She is also a member of Science Museum Group's Masterplan and Estate Committee.

Rachel Waggett is a Chartered Environmentalist and sustainability leader with a career spanning research, consultancy and the public sector. Beginning in environmental building services research, she moved into consultancy, working with both small and major firms to deliver innovative, practical sustainability solutions across diverse project scales, before moving into the public sector. Her expertise bridges strategic policy making and hands-on implementation, with a portfolio including advisory roles on both design and client sides. As Lead Officer for Environment at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Rachel works with stakeholders, partners and peer authorities to accelerate sustainability action across the region. She is also closely involved in community energy initiatives in her local area, reflecting her commitment tto grassroots climate action.