Why do we buy what we buy, and how can we design systems that encourage us to consume less? Join us to explore the behavioral shifts driving the circular economy.

This year’s Obermiller Lecture features award-winning marketing scientist Dr. Gergana Nenkov and Liesl Clark, Co-founder of the global Buy Nothing Project. We will examine the psychological drivers behind sustainable choices and uncover practical strategies to move consumers from overconsumption to mindful reuse. Whether you are shaping business strategy, driving community initiatives, or simply looking to reduce your footprint, you will walk away with actionable insights to help transform how our society consumes.

Agenda

4:00 pm – 4:15 pm

Light Refreshments

4:15 pm – 4:45 pm

Keynote Lecture: Beyond the Bin: Rethinking the 3Rs—Reduce and Reuse Before Recycling presented by Dr. Gergana Nenkov.
4:45 pm – 5:30 pm

Panel Discussion: Encouraging Reduce and Reuse through Behavioral Interventions. A dynamic conversation between Dr. Nenkov and Liesl Clark, moderated by Jeff Renner. Free registration. 

Meet Our Speakers

Dr. Gergana Y. Nenkov | Professor of Marketing, Boston College Carroll School of Management
Dr. Nenkov is an award-winning marketing scientist and educator whose research investigates the motivations behind suboptimal consumer choices. Her work aims to improve decision-making processes for both consumers and firms, specifically within sustainability and consumer finance. Her acclaimed research has been recognized with the EBSCO Responsible Research in Marketing Award (2022) and the Marketing Science Institute/H. Paul Root Award (2020), among numerous other honors.

Liesl Clark | CEO & Co-Founder, The Buy Nothing Project
Liesl Clark is an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, explorer, and the visionary CEO behind the world’s largest gift economy platform. The Buy Nothing Project connects more than 14 million members across 50+ countries, putting the power of sharing directly into the hands of neighbors. From directing high-altitude Himalayan expeditions to leading the circular economy movement, Clark’s expertise lies in building resilient communities in high-stakes environments.

Jeff Renner | Moderator
Serving as Chief Meteorologist and producer of environmental science documentaries at KING TV for 38 years, Jeff Renner is a respected voice in environmental journalism. A 9-time Emmy award winner and National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Gold Circle inductee, he currently hosts Challenge 2.0, exploring the convergence of contemporary topics with ethical issues.