Equipped with a vast network of top international sustainability experts, she’s combining her business strategy and innovation expertise with her passion for supporting climate initiatives and green projects. Enter the third edition of the Ethical Assembly: a highly-focused gathering, free from the influence of large corporations looking to steer the agenda.

At many major industry events, both in Portugal and globally, the sponsors include some of the world’s worst polluters—oil and gas companies, fast-moving consumer goods brands, luxury fashion labels, and others. These expensive sponsorships buy keynote slots and control over the event's program, often sidelining NGOs or scientific voices that could potentially harm the sponsors’ image.

“There’s a disconnect between the sustainability-focused agenda — the kind of content you see on stage — and the entities who are powering them. Aside from the massive sponsorship packages these events charge, they also operate on a pay-to-play model,” Patricia says. “For smaller NGOs, [paying 10K for 7 minutes on a panel] is prohibitively expensive, so we get a one-sided narrative, and a vague one at that...so you’re missing out on a great diversity of voices and solutions championed by early-stage start-ups, research institutions, Indigenous communities, grassroots projects, activist networks, citizen networks,” she added.

In short, those seeking inspiration at most sustainability events find the same old discussions, and unfortunately, lots of greenwashing and lobbying. As climate science warns of the looming threat of environmental collapse, Patricia is driven by a mix of climate anxiety, hope, and determination to push for change, because time is running out.

The Ethical Assembly, set to launch on October 2nd and 3rd at the Beato Innovation District, is taking an uncompromising stance by featuring a stellar lineup of speakers and partners with a clear mission—no greenwashing, no waste, no hidden agendas, and no nonsense.

Patricia told Atlas, “I’ve had the incredible opportunity and privilege over the last 10 years to meet phenomenal people and projects from all over the world that are truly committed...to make a significant impact and to leave a better legacy for the future generations. Imagine what can happen if you bring them together under one roof. We are democratizing access to the climate conversation in a way that’s solutions-driven, inclusive, and open so we can collectively address these challenges.”

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Patricia Imbarus;

The event will feature two main stages running in parallel, with 150 speakers, 70 sessions, and a maximum of 1,000 attendees. Other spaces will host workshops, labs, networking areas, a climate café, and art and photography exhibitions focused on climate and social justice. Attendees can also look forward to 20 short and documentary film screenings, including the Portuguese premiere of Soil, and a keynote by actress and author Lily Cole, along with other notable names.

Considering the scope of the conference and it's uncompromising stance on big polluter sponsorship, which they have been actively declining, organizing the Ethical Assembly has not been without its challenges, including significant financial risks. Readers are invited to help the initiative in whatever capacity they can, whether via ticket sales, donations, or boots-on-the-ground support.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

“We want everyone to feel included, to be able to access the content, and to be inspired to make meaningful contributions to the climate conversation. We need all hands on deck and a diversity of solutions, so everyone is welcome to join us,” she said.

The event caters to both professionals and the general public. Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., sessions are geared toward industry professionals. However, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the space opens up to the public for a more relaxed atmosphere with documentary premieres, art showcases, drinks, and music, while main stage sessions and workshops continue. So, mark your calendars—and let’s take a stand and fight the good fight together.

Secure your tickets at the following link: https://www.ethicalassembly.com/buy-tickets
or get in touch with the organizers to lend a hand at hello@ethicalassembly.com