Summary
Most of us feel stuck when policy shifts overnight, especially in the fast-evolving AEC industry. When the EPA rescinded its 2009 Endangerment Finding in 2026, the real question wasn’t just what changed—it was: Now what do we do?
In this bonus episode, Ryan and Laura Steinbrink (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-e-steinbrink-089340a4) , CEO of Emerald Built Environments (https://www.emeraldbe.com/) , break down what this climate policy shift means for construction leadership, change management in construction projects, and the broader AEC industry, and what remains unchanged.
Exploring how early emissions lawsuits led to the 2009 EPA ruling, the evolution of markets, communities, and the built environment since then, and why this decision is legal, not scientific, and why that distinction matters. They reveal where real control still exists for AEC leaders, developers, and communities, and how to lead change effectively in a world of short-term policy "whiplash."
Beyond regulation, this conversation highlights how local communities maintain climate action plans, markets continue to shift, and better buildings outperform economically and operationally. For those navigating sustainability, energy, and risk management in a constantly changing environment, this episode offers leadership clarity, practical change management insights, and an ideas to move forward with confidence.
Chapters
• 3:19 What Changed: The EPA Decision Explained
• 5:04 How We Got Here: The Origins of Climate Policy
• 7:07 What Actually Changed (and What Didn’t)
• 10:34 Why the Built Environment Is at the Center of This
• 15:09 Where Real Action Is Happening: Local Climate Plans
• 25:00 Short-Term Decisions vs Long-Term Reality
• 31:08 AEC’s Opportunity: Leading Through Uncertainty
Guest
Laura has led teams to discover and implement sustainability goals since 2008. Guiding Emerald’s growth into an internationally sought-after partner for clients, architects, and project teams. She excels at facilitating eco-charrettes and strategy sessions that align business and financial objectives with corporate sustainability goals and building projects, leveraging team expertise to create actionable solutions.
Her experience spans manufacturing, financial services, non-profits, and government. Known for her pragmatic approach to risk mitigation, cost savings, and measurable results. She also serves on the boards of USGBC Ohio, Entrepreneurs’ Organization of Cleveland, and Greater Cleveland Partnership.
Dark Waters Info (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9071322/)
Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2517774/fan_mail/new)
Connective Consulting Group (https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/)
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Support the show (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2517774/support)
Follow Ryan at the following:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc
https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/
https://connective-coaching.com/
Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting (https://www.activatingcuriosity.com/support/) it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.
