Advancing Circular Economy Conversations in Cleveland

March 10, 2026

On March 10, the Council of the Great Lakes Region was proud to take part in the Greater Cleveland Partnership Corporate Sustainability Summit 2026, a dynamic gathering of business leaders, sustainability professionals, and changemakers committed to advancing real world solutions.

Held in Cleveland, the summit created space for meaningful dialogue around resilience, innovation, and the evolving role of corporate leadership in building a more sustainable future.

A Collaborative Lunch & Learn on the Circular Economy

CGLR’s Circular Economy Program Officer, Ally Walker, led an interactive lunchtime workshop focused on the principles and practical applications of the circular economy.

Across three engaging 20-minute sessions, attendees had the opportunity to dive into:

  • The fundamentals of the circular economy, including how it differs from traditional linear models
  • CGLR’s approach to advancing circularity across the Great Lakes region
  • Real-world implications for businesses, with a focus on how organizations can integrate circular practices into their operations

The session sparked thoughtful discussion and idea-sharing, as participants explored how circular strategies can drive both environmental impact and long-term business value.

From Strategy to Action

Hosted by the Greater Cleveland Partnership, the summit brought together a diverse group of organizations united by a common goal: turning sustainability ambition into tangible action.

Throughout the day, conversations highlighted the importance of collaboration across sectors and borders, particularly in regions like the Great Lakes, where economic prosperity and environmental stewardship are deeply interconnected.

For CGLR, it was an inspiring opportunity to connect with peers, share insights, and learn from the innovative work happening across industries.

Looking Ahead

Events like this reinforce the growing momentum behind circular economy solutions and the critical role organizations play in accelerating that shift.

We’re grateful to the Greater Cleveland Partnership for hosting such a thoughtful and engaging event, and to all the participants who contributed to such rich and impactful conversations.

Contact Ally Walker

Interested in bringing circular economy insights to your organization or event? Connect with Ally Walker at ally@councilgreatlakesregion.org to explore speaking opportunities.

Join the Great Lakes Region Community

Join us for an upcoming webinar or attend a future round table or conference! Or better yet, get involved in our programs that are working to make the Great Lakes region the first truly sustainable region in the world.

 

Join our community and stay informed of CGLR’s events and activities.

 

You will learn various aspects about the region, meet regional experts driving environmental sustainability and economic prosperity, and you’ll have a chance to get involved in shaping the region’s sustainable future.

Become a Donor

Charitable contributions to the CGLR Foundation in the US and the CGLR Canada Foundation are crucial for helping us integrate environmental considerations into our regional public policy decisions, business strategies, and investment choices.

Get Involved

Supporting CGLR and joining our programs and outreach efforts will help bring sector leaders and stakeholders together to grow the region’s US-Canada economic partnership, transition to a sustainable future, and strengthen our competitiveness in today’s fast pace global marketplace.