Meet our new team member!

Sayari is pleased to welcome Laura DEBARRE as an Environment and Biodiversity Consultant. To mark her arrival, we asked her a few questions. 

Here is her interview. 

Why did you choose Sayari ?  

My first encounter with Anne-Claire and the members of Sayari dates back to spring 2020, at SETAC, a major scientific conference in the LCA sector. At the time, I was starting my PhD at CIRAIG in Montreal and working on the concept of ‘ecosystem services’ in LCA.  I remember being reallly impressed by Sayari’s work and expertise, and inspired by the team’s enthusiasm and kindness. When I learnt that Sayari was expanding, I saw it as an opportunity to join a group of people and a centre of expertise that I greatly admire.

What led you to work on environmental issues ?   

While studying at engineering school, I came to understand that social issues are closely and systemically intertwined with the many environmental challenges facing our societies. This was a revelation for me, and I sought the best way to use my scientific skills to help understand and reduce the environmental footprint of human activities. That’s how I discovered the world of life cycle analysis and environmental impact assessment. I spent several years working on issues related to water scarcity and “ecosystem services”, which refer to the benefits humans derive from ecosystems (such as the supply of natural resources, pollination, and climate regulation). I believe these concepts are essential for recognizing our dependence on the natural system and its integrity.

A motto or quote that inspires you ?  

« All models are wrong, but some are useful », G.P. Box

What are your favorite hobbies ?  

I’m privileged to live near the mountains and to be able to escape there for trail running and hiking. I also do a little photography and ceramics!

If you had to go on a desert island, what 3 things would you take with you ?  

A guide to edible plants, a good pair of shoes, and that famous book someone recommended to me months ago, the pages of which have still not seen the light of day…