Beyond Borders: Sustainability for a Connected World

Join us for this talk where we will explore the importance of cross-cultural learning and communication in advancing global sustainability efforts.

As individuals, we are not powerless. We are voters, parents, investors, teachers, employees, or employers. By fostering dialogue and promoting mutual understanding, we can create a sustainable future that respects both local nuances and our shared planetary boundaries.

Drawing on diverse international experiences and interdisciplinary expertise, the speakers will examine how different regions around the world are addressing sustainability. By highlighting the value of context-specific solutions, the talk will illustrate the universal principles that unite these efforts. We will discuss the role of data in sustainability, the need for effective citizen engagement, the importance of both formal and informal education, and the challenges of translating complex scientific findings into actionable insights for policymakers and the public.

Join us for a journey around the world as we explore sustainability in action.

Target audience: All OIST members and their families are welcome to attend!

Speakers: Vera Koubek & James Spender
Management and Technology Consultants | Sustainable Finance

For the past decade, Vera and James have guided organizations—particularly in the financial sector—through the complexities of sustainable practices, frameworks, and regulations. Their collaborative efforts extend to universities and business schools in London, where they educate the next generation of professionals on sustainability topics.

Vera brings an analytical mind and a passionate approach to her work. She holds an MSc in Mathematics from Charles University in Prague and an MSc in Environment and Sustainability from the University of London. James complements Vera's expertise with his background in cloud, data, and analytics technology. He holds a BEng in Information Systems Engineering from Imperial College London and is currently engaged in postgraduate studies in Systems Thinking.

Together, Vera and James are avid travelers, constantly seeking out organizations and projects that exemplify sustainable practices. They are eager to learn from and share real-world examples of ESG and sustainability across business, public sector, and academic contexts.