1st day of Living Future 2011

I was not sure what to expect when attending Living Future 2011 as this was going to be first unconference. As I entered the North Tower of the Sheraton Wall Center, I was greeted by an organized registration booth and a loud buzz in the air. As I received my lanyard and program, I noticed many small groups of people interacting and an overall positive forward-thinking vibe.

I went up the escalator to the check out the trade floor level, and I was impressed by a few of the new products, but not the diversity. Most were wood based building products while only a few were new innovations such as Biostruct's Earthen Wall Systems, a hemp-based concrete or hempcrete and Liveroof's Hybrid Green Roofing System. I was quite happy with the little snacks and my two free scotches, but the variety of booths didn't really satiate my palate.

I was really looking forward the keynote presentation and it did not disappoint, with presentations by Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robinson, CrowdBrite founder Darin Dinsmore and eco-entrepreneur Majora Carter.

I can't wait to share more of my experience at Living Future 2011 but in order to do that I should probably head to bed so I can be well rested to take it all in tomorrow.