Events > July 14, 2009

Distinguished Speaker Series

View the Presentation: PDF File

Ann Hancock and Susan Briski

“Sonoma County leadership on climate protection
and the opportunities for business”

Sonoma County has become recognized as a national leader in climate protection through the trailblazing efforts of local business and government in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, launching the green economy, and inspiring other communities.  Local initiatives have impacted action from the regional to the national level.  This event is your chance to learn about the programs currently underway or in the planning stages so that you can position yourself to take advantage of the resulting opportunities.  Hear how local businesses are stepping up to be part of the solution, and the steps your business can take to be part of the solution, too, by analyzing your best strategies for reducing emissions and saving on operations.

Ann Hancock is the Executive Director of the Climate Protection Campaign, which she co-founded in 2001.  The Campaign works with government, business, schools, and the community to educate and implement emission reductions programs, and was the driving force behind the creation of the landmark Sonoma County Community Climate Action Plan.  With over 25 years in community leadership, education, and fundraising, Ann has been a sustainability planner for the County of Marin, a commentator for TomPaine.com, an instructor at Humboldt State University, and a real estate broker.  This year, she was among 100 women worldwide who were honored by the Women’s National History Project under the theme “Women Taking the Lead to Save Our Planet.”

Susan Briski is a sustainable business consultant, educator, and founder of Sustainable Progress Consulting.  She helps organizations apply sustainability principles in practical, common sense ways to produce measurable improvements in financial, environmental, and social performance.  Greenhouse gas foot-printing and reduction strategies are among her specialties.  She teaches in Dominican University’s Green MBA program, worked 20 years with Hewlett Packard and Agilent Technologies as an engineer and manager, and holds a Green MBA and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering.