Spring Thinking

Text only

Print this page

E-mail this page

Add to favourites

Suggest similar pages



	"Sustainable behaviour is like teenage sex. Most people who say they're doing it, aren't, and those that are doing it are doing it badly".

Ed Gillespie of Futerra

	Spring Thinking

In the face of much talk about carbon neutrality and sustainability, only about half of us are actually 'thinking' about doing something. When it comes to sustainability, actions often fall short of intentions.

Ed Gillespie (Creative Director Futerra) is an expert in the changing culture of sustainability in the UK - and around the world. Ed is making his way around the world in 80 ways to promote (s)low carbon travel.

In October he arrived in NZ via cargo ship and gave two public presentations on 'Art for Earth's Sake' - the role of art and culture in the context of global environmental catastrophe.

For Spring Thinking, British Council teamed up with Mandarin Communications (NZ) and Futerra (UK) to explore why communicating sustainability issues is so tricky, and how behaviours can be positively influenced.

In August, we ran a series of one-day workshops, led by Alex Hannant and Alison Adams-Smith, in Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland. These workshops brought professionals and advocates together to explore the latest communications approaches and to share ideas and experiences. We got some great feedback, and grappled first-hand with sustainability issues with registrations, workshop materials and catering!

Alex Hannant

Alex has a background in education and marketing, with a Masters in Development Studies. In 2006, he helped to produce 'Sleeping Giants', a DVD resource on climate change.

Alison Adams-Smith

Alison has an MSC in Environmental Sciences and a Masters of Planning, and is currently undertaking her PhD. Previously she was based at the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, advising the Minister of Energy.

Need Further Information?

For further information on Spring Thinking, please contact Anna Lee at the British Council.

Subscribe to our e-newsletter

Who Are You Calling Slow?
Ed's article for LiveMint

Asian Young Leaders Climate Forum

The United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
A registered charity: 209131 (England and Wales) SC037733 (Scotland)
Our privacy and copyright statements.
Our Freedom of Information Publications Scheme. Double-click for pop-up dictionary.