In the run-up to our ten year celebration, we caught up with a number of key people who have helped build the Sustainability Festival over the last decade into what it has become today. We also got their views on what makes #SustFest so special, the impact on the local community and how it can help the future generations.Â
Reflecting on Impact
What sustainability achievement are you most proud of during your time with the group?
SustFest has been an incredibly powerful way to bring people together, with a breadth and depth of engagement that has grown year after year. I feel very fortunate to have been involved in different capacities over time — first through my role at the council during the very first SustFest, then with the BID on the first on-street festival, and later as a trustee when the festival took over the Alban Arena. Watching the event evolve and continue to inspire local residents and businesses has been a real highlight for me.
What project or initiative had the most lasting impact, in your view?
As Communications Trustee, I helped coordinate a complete redesign of the Sustainable St Albans website. Working alongside a team of talented and generous volunteers, we created a site that was mobile-friendly, more engaging, and easier to use — both for the public and for the volunteers managing it behind the scenes. The project not only boosted our reach and impact but also gave us a fresh, effective way of inspiring people to connect with sustainability in their own lives.
Celebrating Collaboration
What did you enjoy most about working with other members?
The best part was seeing how people’s different experiences and energies combined to make projects stronger. Everyone brought their own perspective and passion, and it was inspiring to see how that came together to deliver real impact for the community.
Were there any unexpected partnerships or collaborations that turned out to be especially fruitful?
Absolutely — one of the unexpected joys of volunteering has been the friendships that have come out of it. I’ve been lucky enough to meet some wonderful people, including founder Catherine Ross and current chair Jill Watson, and those friendships have lasted well beyond our work on projects. I often say volunteering is both selfless and selfish at the same time: you give to the cause, but you also get so much back in return.
Learning and Growth
What’s one thing you learned from being part of the group that you still carry with you?
Patience
Did your involvement change how you think about sustainability or community action?
Yes — I started off thinking that if we simply gave people the right information, change would follow naturally. What I’ve learned is that community action is more complex and layered than that. Change doesn’t always happen quickly or directly, but that doesn’t make it any less valuable. It’s about building momentum and recognising the many different ways people engage with sustainability.
Looking Forward
What opportunities do you see for future sustainability efforts in our community?
There is so much potential still ahead of us — in many ways, we’re just at the beginning. My experience with SSA has reassured me that most people want to do the right thing; they just need the right information and support to challenge existing norms. Whether it’s improving our homes, changing how we travel, or adjusting how we eat, we can all make changes that not only reduce our impact but also make our lives healthier, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
What message would you give to the future generations, like those at Oaklands about the sustainability challenges ahead?
Sustainability isn’t about giving things up. It’s about creating better ways of living that leave us healthier, happier, and more connected — while also protecting the planet we’re only temporary caretakers of. Far from being a sacrifice, it’s an opportunity to thrive.
Moments of Joy
What was the most fun or memorable event you participated in?
One standout memory was working with an amazing group of volunteers on the website project during the pandemic. Despite the challenges of working entirely remotely, the mix of creativity, technical skill, and shared purpose made it an inspiring and memorable experience. When you see great design and great teamwork come together, it’s something special.
What made being part of the group meaningful or enjoyable for you?
The passion. Everyone involved cares deeply about making a difference, and that level of commitment is infectious. Being surrounded by that energy has been hugely motivating.