The Circular Economy, Climate Action, and Urban Sustainability with Helen Santiago-Fink

In this episode of the Trend Talk podcast, a companion series for the 2026 Trend Report for Planners, Joe DeAngelis, research manager at the American Planning Association, chats with climate urbanist and researcher, Helen Santiago-Fink. Helen shares insights drawn from her extensive experience working with international organizations and city governments as the two discuss the convergence of the circular economy, climate action, and technological innovation, highlighting how cities can harness AI and digital marketing approaches to promote sustainability. Planners and city leaders will find inspiration and practical insights for integrating circularity at the local level, as well as an exploration of how community engagement and forward-thinking strategies can pave the way for a more sustainable future. The 2026 Trend Report for Planners is created by APA in partnership with the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. Episode URL: https://www.planning.org/podcast/the-circular-economy-climate-action-and-urban-sustainability-with-helen-santiago-fink/