Cocktails & Conversations: Future of Food Waste (On-site Special Program)

Wes Mahmud, Farm Educator, Common Good City Farm; Dr. Stephanie Lansing, Professor of Environmental Science & Technology, University of Maryland College Park; Dr. Susan Pell, Botanist and Executive Director, U.S. Botanic Garden
Experience the magic of the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory at night and get inspired by the potential of plants and people. Join USBG Executive Director and botanist Dr. Susan Pell in conversation with local experts as they discuss the science of compost, sustainable gardening practices, and the future of food waste. You’ll hear first-hand from the researchers and community changemakers leading plant-centered climate change solutions.

6:30 -7:00 pm: Doors open at 6:30 pm. Enjoy a selection of seasonal cocktails, mocktails, and delicious small plates available for purchase from D.C.’s own Magpie and the Tiger.

7:00-8:00 pm: Panel begins at 7 pm.

8:00-8:30 pm: Following the conversation, chat with Dr. Pell, guest panelists, and fellow attendees. You’ll be able to grab another drink and enjoy special access to explore the Conservatory after hours. Doors close at 8:30 pm.

Come with curiosity and leave with a renewed sense of hope about the potential of plants and people.

Please note: Attendees of this program must be 21 and older. Food and beverages, as well as seating will be limited. To guarantee your opportunity to find a seat and enjoy a drink and a snack, please arrive when doors open at 6:30 pm.

This program is offered in collaboration with the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden. If you're interested in supporting educational programs through a donation to the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden, click here.

Wes Mahmud

Farm Educator

Common Good City Farm

Farmer Wes has worked alongside Common Good since 2018, providing compost and sustainability education on the farm and was in the 2023 cohort of Common Good’s Regenerative Agriculture Certificate program. He is passionate about giving people the tools necessar...(read more)

Dr. Stephanie Lansing

Professor of Environmental Science & Technology

University of Maryland College Park

Dr. Stephanie Lansing leads the Bioenergy and Biotechnology Lab at the nexus of renewable energy, water quality, waste treatment, and human health. She is committed to understanding the ecological, engineering, and social systems that influence these intertwin...(read more)

Dr. Susan Pell

Executive Director

U.S. Botanic Garden

Dr. Susan Pell is a botanist, educator, and the Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden. Susan has traveled the world collecting plants for scientific study. Her research has focused on the Anacardiaceae family which includes cashews, sumac, and...(read more)