Nicole Van Batenburg: Where do you live and what do you do?
Jane Abernethy: I live in Toronto and I head sustainability globally for Humanscale, the leading office ergonomic manufacturer. We’ve been on a mission to have a net positive impact as we operate, aiming to be regenerative and become part of the solution to environmental issues. Over the last few years, it’s been exciting to take this goal from an aspirational idea and try to put it into practice in a measurable and meaningful way.
NVB: What are you most excited about for this year’s Living Product Expo?
JA: The Living Product Expo is always a great place to hear about what the leaders in sustainable manufacturing are doing. I’m looking forward to seeing the latest progress, new ideas, and hear how others are overcoming challenges on their end.
NVB: In your own words, can you give us a taste of the ideas you’re going to bring to the expo about healthy buildings and products?
JA: I’m on a panel with a few sustainability greats, who should bring interesting views to the conversation. My focus will be on the Living Product Challenge and how this is playing out for us. The certification wasn’t set up to be completed and forgotten about; it came with commitments for future positive contribution, and the challenge of maintaining our program. It’s also influenced how sustainability happens at our company both internally and externally.
NVB: In your opinion, what needs to happen to move designers and the materials industry toward healthier products?
JA: More awareness. The more that people demand that the health impacts of materials be considered, the more manufacturers will be held accountable for their choices–especially when purchasing decisions include healthy materials in the criteria. Ideally, more demand for healthy materials would also lead to more support for the research and science that helps us understand the impacts of materials, and may lead to better, more effective market regulation. Businesses should be encouraged to manufacture and be profitable without increasing human and environmental health risks.
NVB: What’s the most exciting thing that has happened to you over the past couple of years?
JA: When Humanscale took on the Living Product Challenge I was amazed to see how many people in our company became more engaged. It seemed to really resonate with people in different roles and different locations. It’s like a positive feedback loop, and I get to be on the receiving end of many people’s enthusiasm.
The Living Product Expo is this September 11 – 13, 2018, in Pittsburgh. To learn more about the Expo, Jane’s session, and more, visit our website here: productexpo.living-future.org
