This is part of a series of posts based on episodes of The Climate Pivot podcast. Across the series, I speak with people who have pivoted their careers towards climate action in their own unique ways.
In Episode 1 of The Climate Pivot, I spoke with Elphège Barthe, a senior visual designer based at strategic design firm Designit. He’s worked with globally-recognised clients across a range of industries; recently, he’s been focusing on ethical and environmentally responsible projects, and acting as an advocate for these values in both his professional and personal life.
Elphège shared five insights to help us all transform our climate impact in the workplace, at home, and in our communities.
- Start and continue with curiosity
Curiosity is often the spark that ignites the journey towards meaningful change. It compels us to ask questions, seek answers, and connect with others. Crucially, you don’t need to have all the answers to start transforming your impact. The climate movement is vast, diverse, and ever-evolving, making it a rich field for exploration.
‘It’s a lifetime exploration … Just look out there, stay curious and be involved. And you will realise that there is a community out there waiting for you.’
- Identify your responsibility
People of all professional backgrounds have a stake in the climate crisis. Whether you’re a designer, engineer, artist, or accountant, you can take steps to understand your role in the broader context of sustainability, and where you can make impactful changes.
‘It’s estimated that 80% of all product-related environmental impacts are determined at the design phase … As a designer, obviously I have a responsibility to everything I create.’
- Be an activist within your organisation
Speaking up and advocating for environmentally responsible choices can lead to transformative shifts in business practices. It’s not just about convincing others; it’s about leading by example and catalysing change from within. If you don’t see changes happening, you can make the choice to lead them.
‘The business said “we are going to fly to Amsterdam.” And I was like, “is there no way for us to go with the Eurostar?” … Have those conversations with your clients, with your colleagues, and drive them, because otherwise they might not happen.’
- See resistance as an opportunity
Instead of viewing resistance as a roadblock, consider it an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogues and as a natural part of any transformative journey. These conversations strengthen your communication skills, and lead to unexpected alliances and greater awareness within your network.
‘Spark this idea of curiosity and actually listen attentively to someone … You still have resistance, don’t get me wrong. But I think the magic about it is to see the ripple effect it’s had on friends, family and colleagues.’
- Take inspiration from others
Local initiatives often serve as proof that change is possible. They serve as an antidote to an overwhelmingly negative climate news cycle, and remind us that individuals, communities, and organisations can effect change when they come together with shared purpose and passion.
‘Some really inspiring people are doing great work at local level. How can those actions inspire other actions at bigger scales?’
There’s much more wisdom and insight from Elphège in our full conversation. Listen to it now, wherever you get your podcasts.