The three-part series “Forced Labor in Supply Chains” explores the often-invisible affliction of human exploitation embedded within the extensive supply-chain networks that create the very materials for our construction endeavors. Such coerced labor conditions are a pervasive reality across our global landscape. This series seeks to elevate the consciousness of planners and designers by prompting a critical examination of the origins of our materials and the methodologies employed in their creation, thereby equipping us with the knowledge required to make morally informed decisions when procuring resources for our projects.

In the series' third installment, "Forced Labor in Supply Chains: Action and Impacts to advance Equity", we engage with the subject matter through a multifaceted discourse, hearing about diverse approaches from practice leaders, academic research groups as well as human rights advocates. The event aims to cultivate discourse on both conceptual and pragmatic measures necessary to foster a paradigm shift toward enhanced human rights conditions in the procurement of our construction resources. Recognizing that initiating individual action often represents a challenge when combating such an intricate challenge, this event aspires to empower attendees to take that critical first step.

Speakers:

Pins Brown, Freelance Consultant on business and human rights; Chair, UK-based Food Network for Ethical Trade

Sara Grant, AIA, LEED AP, ALEP, Design Partner, MBB Architects

Billie Faircloth, FAIA, Co-founder and Research Director, Built Buildings Lab

Moderator:

Melissa Marsh, Founder and CEO, PLASTARC

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