Mike Siddall/ Board Member

Originally from Stockport I followed my passion for sport to Lancaster where I studies on a BA (Hons) In Sport Studies with Health. After graduating in 2005, trained as a Snowboard Instructor and lived and worked in Switzerland and Austria. Unfortunately my time working in the mountains was put to an end following a serious snowboarding accident resulting in a spinal cord injury and paralysis. After the accident I had to reconsider my career path and, following a period of rehabilitation and contemplation, I accepted an offer to complete Post Graduate Certificate in Post Compulsory Education (PGCE) Manchester Metropolitan University. I then worked in academic roles in further education teaching Sport, and later progressing onto the management of widening access to Higher Education projects within the University of Cumbria.

I have always had a great fondness for the outdoors and the nature environment, and a fascination with stories of exploration and mountaineering by Edmond Hilary, Dougal Hasten, Chis Bonnington and the like, which ultimately lead me to literature on environmentalism and conservation. My awareness of environmental issues and the damage we are doing to our planet was really accelerated once I began studying for my MA in Sustainable Leadership Development, and drove my desire to focus all aspect of my like on environmental conservation. The opportunity to work in this field came about with the role of Eco-I North West Project manager at the University of Cumbria, the role combined my passion for environmentalism with my experience of project management and partnership working, since I began the role I have completed an IEMA Carbon Management qualification and put my Association of Project Managers Qualification to good use. I have worked across numerous carbon reduction focused projects and develop skills in carbon auditing, and carbon reduction strategies involving the implementation and application of technologies, but primarily the adaption of behaviours, processes and operations.

I now live in Brampton, with my wife and 3 young children. I am deeply passionate about the environment and protection of the world around us, to support life and manage our wellbeing. I have a great interest in behaviour change and addressing environmentally problematic normative /habitual behaviours, it is my belief that change needs to happen with individuals and with individual actions through connections at a local level. People need to feel the change that is needed and have tangible connections to action, not viewing climate action as a task for someone else to deal with.

We have huge challenge to collectively drive down global emission and mitigate the impact of climate change, but with this challenge comes an opportunity. An opportunity to radically change some of the destructive behaviours that we (as a global society) have developed over the last few centuries, and not only avoid disaster but create something amazing.

Josh Kennedy: B2Z project worker

Josh's journey began in the vicinity of Brampton, where he spent his formative years and attended William Howard School. His academic pursuits led him to Northumbria University, where he Graduated in Business Management. While at Northumbria, he found particular fascination in subjects such as Strategic Management for Sustainable Leadership and Fostering Sustainable Futures, underlining his strong commitment to sustainability.

During his university tenure, Josh was actively engaged in the Operations team at Northern Rail. It was this experience that sparked his interest in a pivotal undertaking: the creation of his dissertation, 'Riding the Rails to Sustainability: A case study of Carbon-neutral train service in the UK'. Josh's academic endeavours exemplify his dedication to finding sustainable solutions in the transport industry.

Josh's professional journey has been diverse, with experience spanning multiple industries, from operations management and customer service to lifeguarding, sales advising, and working as a kitchen assistant. This versatility has enriched his skill set and adaptability in various work environments.

Josh's passion for community engagement and volunteering was notably demonstrated through his participation in the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. His commitment to giving back to the community led him to become a young leader at the local Scouts, where his prior experience as a sports leader at William Howard proved invaluable in guiding and mentoring youth.

Beyond his professional and academic commitments, Josh has a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. A keen hiker, he finds solace and inspiration in the mountains and equally enjoys leisurely strolls along the coastline. This connection to nature reinforces his commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

In his career, Josh wholeheartedly pledges to leverage his skills and knowledge to make a positive impact, no matter the field or capacity. He seeks to champion the cause of Environmental Sustainability, recognizing the critical role it plays in preserving the natural world for future generations. These years, within his lifetime, are pivotal in shaping a sustainable future and ensuring that the beauty of the natural world endures for generations to come.

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