Drew Shula, founder and CEO of Verdical Group, a nationally leading sustainability consulting firm, emphasized the timeliness of the 12th annual Net Zero Conference, scheduled for October 1, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. In a Q&A, Shula highlighted how the conference has grown from a small educational gathering into a global movement, reflecting the urgent need for collective action on climate change.
Shula, a LEED Fellow and Living Future Hero, founded Verdical Group to decarbonize the built environment. The firm, a certified B Corporation and 1% for the Planet member, has worked with institutions like NASA, Google, and Meta. Under his leadership, Verdical Group was named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in 2025.
The Net Zero Conference began 12 years ago as an educational event on net zero design, a concept then unfamiliar to many industry leaders. "We figured a handful of people would show up," Shula said. Instead, hundreds of sustainability professionals attended, prompting the event to become annual. Today, the conference covers topics beyond buildings, including Biomimicry, Biophilia, Energy, and Urbanism.
Shula stressed the importance of the conference amid political turmoil. "Even in times of political turmoil at the local, state, or country level, we can focus on creating positive change in our buildings, our businesses, and our cities," he said. The event aims to bridge knowledge gaps and inspire a net zero future through keynotes, educational sessions, and an expo hall.
This year's keynotes include Joel Cesare (Growth Lead, Cambio), Leah Thomas (Environmentalist), Nalleli Cobo (Environmental Activist), and Michael Ford (The Hip Hop Architecture Camp). The Trailblazer Awards will celebrate interdisciplinary leaders making a positive impact.
Shula also reflected on attending a TED Countdown event in Nairobi, Kenya, which reinforced that climate change is a global issue. "The work we each do as individuals across the world adds up to an incredible impact," he said. For more on TED Countdown, visit conferences.ted.com/countdown2025.
Verdical Group, incorporated as a Benefit Corporation and third-party certified as a high-scoring B Corporation, donates 1% of annual revenue to environmental nonprofits. The firm is a Certified Small Business, Green Business, and Social Enterprise. The Net Zero Conference embodies the firm's mission to decarbonize the built environment and inspire a net zero future.
Shula encouraged participation, stating, "Join us at the Net Zero Conference to be part of this movement." The conference serves as a hub for climate leaders to collaborate on global solutions for change in the built environment.
