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Finland & California: Shaping a Sustainable Built Environment

April 15, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

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Organizer

Consulate General of Finland in Los Angeles

About Event

How leading regions decarbonize buildings via circular economy, energy efficiency, and collaboration | Insights from Finland and California

The built environment is one of the largest sources of emissions in cities today. In Los Angeles, buildings generate roughly 43% of total greenhouse gas emissions, making them the single largest source in the city. As urban areas grow and energy demand increases, reducing emissions from buildings has become a critical part of the climate transition.

This event brings together leaders from business, research, and government to explore practical solutions for decarbonizing buildings, from energy-efficient design to circular construction and smart energy systems.

With perspectives from Finland and California, the discussion will highlight how innovation, policy, and collaboration can support more sustainable and resilient cities.

Speakers include:

Minna Laajava, Consul General of Finland in Los Angeles
David Gottfried, Founder of the U.S. Green Building Council
Veera Mitzner, Director, Colorado State University (CSU) Climate Hub at Spur
Patrick Church, Executive Vice President, CBRE
Jukka Mäkelä, Co-Founder, Carbon Free Technologies

Program:
10:00 am Arrival and Refreshments
10:30 am Keynote presentations followed by a panel discussion
12:00 pm Networking reception and buffet lunch

Request for RSVP: sanna.h.andersson@gov.fi

Location

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Organizer

Consulate General of Finland in Los Angeles

Organizer

Consulate General of Finland in Los Angeles

The Consulate General of Finland in Los Angeles represents Finland across twelve Western U.S. states, with its operations centered in California.

Our work focuses on two main areas: trade promotion and consular services. Through our trade promotion efforts, we connect business communities and foster partnerships between Finnish and U.S. companies, organizations, universities, and research institutions.

Events listed on the LA Climate Week calendar are submitted by community organizers and do not represent the views or endorsements of LA Climate Week.