Author: Emily Mabin Sutton

  • Become a Climate Communicator

    Become a Climate Communicator

    Briar first attended one of Climate Club’s public Climate Fresk workshops out of personal interest. The workshop gave her a clearer, more connected understanding of how climate change ties to our organisation and personal actions —and got her thinking about how useful it could be for climate communication.

    After that initial experience, Briar became a facilitator, bringing the Climate Fresk into a government context. Feedback from participants was thoughtful and encouraging:

    • “I feel more empowered to encourage others to learn more about global warming and its causes/impacts.”
    • “Greater understanding of what I had a basic knowledge of.”
    • “Enthusiasm to get involved.”

    Now trained as a Climate Fresk facilitator, Briar is bringing climate education into everyday conversations and planning.

    “Attending the Climate Club’s public Climate Fresk workshop gave me a fresh, comprehensive perspective on the interconnectedness of climate change and helped me see the urgency of action in a completely different light,” says Briar. “There’s no other tool out there that gives executives an overview of how climate change works and a practical sense of urgency around taking action, so effectively, in such a short time, all in a fun, engaging game format.”

    Briar Gill-Michaels

    Principal Advisor Environmental Sustainability (Culture & Capability)

    3 Benefits of Climate Fresk for Local and Central Government Teams

    1. A Fast, Effective Way to Build Climate Understanding
    The workshop offers a practical overview of climate science in just a few hours—great for busy council or government teams.

    2. Encourages Leadership Action
    Rather than staying theoretical, it helps leaders connect the dots to their own roles and responsibilities.

    3. Supports Ongoing Internal Training
    With trained facilitators, organisations can continue building internal climate capability over time, not just as a one-off.

    If your local government, council, or government agency is exploring ways to build internal climate capability, we’d love to talk. Climate education is a great place to start—and Climate Fresk is a powerful tool to get things moving.

  • Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Explained Webinar Series

    Curious about how climate policy and the Emissions Trading Scheme fit together?

    The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is a critical part of New Zealand’s climate policy response, but it is technical, and understanding all the moving parts can be rather daunting!

    Luckily, here is a webinar series that provides clarity and an overview of the ETS, laid out in terms that non-experts will understand. Watch the series below, featuring Dr Christina Hood at Compass Climate and Emily Mabin Sutton from Climate Club.

    Many thanks to the Whakatupu Aotearoa Foundation for sponsoring this series.


    Introduction to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS)

    An introduction to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), a key part of New Zealand’s climate policy response, explained in terms for non-experts.

    Perfect for those looking for:

    • A quick overview of the NZ ETS

    Click here to view webinar recording
    Passcode: Vma!Eih5;

    ETS Explained Deep Dive 1: In-depth function of the NZ ETS

    Building upon the previous webinar, with a focus on the NZ ETS design and function.

    Perfect for those looking for more detail on:

    • How the ETS caps and auction settings help deliver emissions targets
    • Budgets and the NDC
    • Pricing and the auction process
    • Free allocation

    Click here to view webinar recording
    Passcode: 66@idp%B

    ETS Explained Deep Dive 2: Future of the Emissions Trading Scheme

    This session builds on the previous webinars, exploring current and looming debates about how the NZ ETS might change in future to make it more effective.

    Perfect for those looking for a greater understanding of:

    • Whether to shift to an ETS focused more on emissions reductions
    • How to support forestry
    • Agricultural emissions pricing
    • Reform of industrial free allocation
    • Lining up the ETS with our Paris Agreement NDC
    • How auction proceeds could be used

    Click here to view webinar recording
    Passcode: &+9PBM9=

    ETS Explained Deep Dive 3: What are other countries doing?

    The final webinar in the series, exploring the different approaches to emissions pricing that other countries around the world are implementing, and how the ETS compares.

    Perfect for those looking for insights into:

    • How key features of the NZ ETS compare to other countries emissions pricing schemes.
    • What could we learn from other countries ETS?
    • What are some success stories of emissions pricing?

    Click here to view webinar recording
    Passcode: s?cF24^F


  • Interview on Radio NZ: Emily chats with Jesse Mulligan about the Climate Change Game making headlines

    Interview on Radio NZ: Emily chats with Jesse Mulligan about the Climate Change Game making headlines


    The amazing Climate Fresk Workshops were recently featured on the radio!

    Our General Manager, Emily, was interviewed by Jesse Mulligan on Radio NZ to discuss the Climate Fresk Workshops that are designed to make the science of climate change accessible and engaging.

    We talked about what makes Climate Fresk unique and shared inspiring stories from past sessions.

    You can listen to the interview here:🎧 Radio New Zealand Interview

    ”I found my first Climate Fresk a really big light bulb moment.

    I had this ‘aha’ of seeing the whole big picture. It’s really rare that you get to see from start to finish what’s already happened, what’s happening and what’s to come.

    I found it quite shocking, and exciting, that we can all be empowered to take action as well. This is what inspired me to bring these events to New Zealand.” – Emily Mabin Sutton

    What Are Climate Fresk Workshops?

    The workshop is called ‘Climate Fresk’ because it uses a collaborative approach to creating a fresco (the Italian/French word for a large piece of art) from puzzle pieces that come together to represent the big picture causes and consequences of Climate Change.

    These workshops are interactive; an escape-room-style series of puzzles to work through and solve together as a team. They’re fun, with lots of chatting and debating as the puzzles come together to tell a story that simplifies the complexities of climate change, making it easier for everyone—from students to professionals—to understand the challenges and identify actionable and unique solutions that they are able to implement.

    “There’s a range of emotional reactions from people.

    Some people come in thinking, wow, climate change is such a bummer. And then they have a lot of fun, so they’re really excited. Most people walk away with this big picture and feeling really empowered to take action.

    It can be really disempowering and quite frightening if you feel like you don’t have any way to take action. One of the things that people say when they leave the workshop is ”wow, I actually was really apathetic, I was a bit worried, but now I have something I can do.” And that’s what we love to give people, is that hope and action.”

    — Emily Mabin Sutton


    Who Are They For?

    Climate Fresk workshops are for anyone interested in learning about climate change and making a difference. They are suitable for schools, businesses, councils and communities to bring climate education to a wide audience.


    What Do Participants Gain?

    Participants leave the workshops with a clear understanding of climate change and practical steps they can take to contribute to positive change in their lives, workplaces, and communities.

    ”Over 1000 New Zealanders have participated in a workshop so far. It’s aimed at everyone, as we’re all impacted by climate change and we all have a part to play!

    It’s taken place in councils, hospitality groups, kindergartens and corporate boardrooms. Literally everyone can participate. It’s tailorable to different audiences; novices and experts all get something from it.”

    — Emily, Climate Club

    Interested? Here are 3 Ideas on how a Climate Fresk Workshop can suit your group:

    1. Strategy / SLT Team Days
    Fun, engaging climate workshops serve as a cornerstone for building a deeper understanding of the climate crisis among leaders. By providing a platform for interactive discussions and expert insights, these workshops empower teams to grasp the complexities of climate change and its implications for organisational strategy.

    2. Team-Building Exercise
    “A team that solves climate puzzles together, stays together” , as the famous idiom goes – Climate change is the biggest challenge of our time. By gathering around an important topic, having fun, and working together, this workshop can build relationships and spark collaboration and ideas across departments.

    3. Climate Risk Discussions
    Climate change presents risks to business operations, from supply chain disruptions to regulatory changes. Climate workshops help build resilience by equipping leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to these challenges proactively. By fostering a culture of resilience, we ensure the long-term sustainability of an organisation.

  • Climate action + work = fun?!

    Climate action + work = fun?!


    When most people hear someone mention climate change, it can bring up thoughts of boring, stiff science and learning about a sad topic. But in our workshop jam-packed with games, quizzes, spot prizes, and activities, taking action on climate becomes a fun and exciting adventure.

    “”Really interesting and fun way to learn more, great interactive experience; the music and dancing were an added bonus!”

    Participant – Simply Energy

    Consider bringing a fun team-building climate action workshop for any occasion: consider for all-hands, annual team retreats, and leadership team on-sites.

    Team members leave with hope and ideas for action

    As well as having fun, these workshops empower team members with impactful actions they can take – in their role, within community, and in their personal lives.

    Here are some of the actions staff committed to taking (and took!) as part of a Climate Club climate action workshop:

    “Reviewing procurement decisions with climate in mind.”

    — Will

    “Research which KiwiSaver fund I am in with a view to making a change.”

    — Stephen

    “Negotiate better public transport schedules to improve staff commutes”

    — Helen

    “Purchasing fewer new things—opting for high quality, durable, or second-hand items”

    — Luke

    Book a call to talk about workshops today!

  • Upskill Your Senior Leadership Team in Climate with our Fresk Workshops

    Upskill Your Senior Leadership Team in Climate with our Fresk Workshops


    Climate-Related Disclosures have become a legal requirement for large companies in New Zealand, ramping up sustainability reporting a notch from the voluntary ESG to a regulatory requirement. Even for companies not facing direct regulatory forces, it’s still a great idea to upskill your SLT in Climate Change and climate-related risks, to prepare for the wave of regulation to come.


    Southern Hospitality, a hospitality supply company in New Zealand, hosted a Climate Fresk workshop during their whole executive leadership team strategy day this year. Here’s what a participant had to say:

    ”Engaging, enjoyable and a bit frightening. Fantastic facilitator, who is full of knowledge and passion. Highly recommend.” – David Morrison, Regional Manager

    A key way to engage senior leadership can be in a series of climate workshops. We have found Climate workshops to be a dynamic tool that equips leadership with the knowledge required to see strategy through a climate lens.

    Ways to Incorporate A Climate Workshop Into An SLT / ELT Schedule

    1. Strategy / Team Planning Days
    Fun, engaging climate workshops serve as a cornerstone for building a deeper understanding of the climate crisis among leaders. By providing a platform for interactive discussions and expert insights, these workshops empower teams to grasp the complexities of climate change and its implications for organisational strategy.

    2. Team-Building Exercise
    “A team that solves climate puzzles together, stays together” , as the famous idiom goes – Climate change is the biggest challenge of our time. By gathering around an important topic, having fun, and working together, this workshop can build relationships and spark collaboration and ideas across departments.

    3. Kick-starts the climate work program
    Climate disclosures and risk reporting can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, they become more manageable. Climate workshops equip leaders with the knowledge needed to navigate climate strategy effectively, bringing everyone on-board to enthusiastically support sustainability targets. 

    4. Building Resilience
    Climate change presents risks to business operations, from supply chain disruptions to regulatory changes. Climate workshops help build resilience by equipping leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to these challenges proactively. By fostering a culture of resilience, we ensure the long-term sustainability of an organisation.

    5. Driving Competitive Advantage
    Finally, embracing sustainability isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic advantage. Companies that proactively address climate change not only mitigate risks but also seize new opportunities for growth and innovation. By harnessing the power of climate workshops, organisations position themselves as leaders of industry, driving positive change and setting the standard for corporate sustainability.

    In conclusion, climate workshops are a powerful tool for aligning senior leadership teams on the climate crisis. By empowering leaders with knowledge, fostering collaboration, and inspiring action, these workshops enable organisations to learn how to drive meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future.

  • Councils spreading climate conversations with Climate Fresk workshops across Aotearoa

    Councils spreading climate conversations with Climate Fresk workshops across Aotearoa


    Last year in Aotearoa, many of us have realised we are witnessing a pivotal moment in history – a moment where communities have to come to terms with behaviour change very rapidly in order to create the emissions reductions we need to get to a liveable world. We no longer live in the hypothetical “future state”- climate change is here, now, affecting us.

    Councils across the motu are tasked with the role of communicating the realities of climate weather and risks to their communities, and empowering locals with the knowledge and solutions they need to prepare for what’s to come and change to bend the emissions curve.

    Alongside the conversations around coastal adaptation, managed retreat, and emergency preparation; our team recommends to still focus the conversation around mitigation. It’s not too late to bend the curve and we all need to begin to understand the behaviour changes required and become active participants in the journey toward a sustainable future.

    A key instrument at the heart of this transformation can be a series of climate workshops and community engagement. We have found Climate workshops to be a dynamic tool that not only educates but also inspires councillors, staff and community members to embrace climate action in all aspects of their work and beyond. Below, our Lead Facilitator delves into the invaluable benefits of leveraging climate workshops to navigate local community conversations in New Zealand.


    Feedback from Pippa, climate action ambassador at Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, who ran workshops for staff and councillors in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle:

    “Loved the Climate Fresk – it’s just a good way of seeing how it all fits together, even if the realisation of how big the consequences are can be a bit confronting. It’s really useful to do the Fresk with colleagues so you can work through the action plan together and help each other on the journey.”

    Pippa McKelvie-Sebileau – Hawke’s Bay Regional Council

    Stakeholders a Climate Fresk Workshop can help with:

    1. Empowering Councillors with Crucial Context for Policy Decisions
    Climate workshops serve as a cornerstone for building a deeper understanding of the climate crisis among decision makers. Combine your Governance and Executive Leadership Teams into one workshop to build morale and team culture. By providing a platform for interactive discussions and expert insights, these workshops empower councillors to grasp the complexities of climate change and its implications in policy decisions. This helps councillors come to the understanding before the “we wish we had known sooner” moments.

    2. Cultivating Community Climate Champions
    Through climate workshops, we have the opportunity to nurture a new generation of climate champions within communities. Facilitation training enable community ambassadors to become well-versed in the science of climate change, and be passionate advocates for climate action in communities. They become ambassadors for change, driving momentum toward our collective sustainability goals.

    3. Empowering Staff to Make Changes
    Reporting and re-organising for climate action can seem like a daunting change from business as usual, but with the right knowledge and tools, they become more manageable. Climate workshops equip teams with the skills needed to navigate climate strategy effectively, bringing everyone on-board to enthusiastically support sustainability targets. 

    Ultimately, we all need to do everything we can, as urgently as possible. By equipping teams, councillors and communities with the knowledge and skills needed, is a great step to ensuring your community is resilient and equipped for the future.

  • Navigating Mandatory Climate Disclosures: Empowering Your Team Through Climate Workshops

    Navigating Mandatory Climate Disclosures: Empowering Your Team Through Climate Workshops


    This year in the climate landscape, we are witnessing a pivotal moment in history – a moment where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword but a fundamental aspect of doing business responsibly.

    Here in New Zealand, the introduction of mandatory climate disclosures signals the urgency of addressing climate change within our organisations. However, compliance shouldn’t be our sole focus. Alongside the work to roll out new reporting and calculate baselines, our team at Climate Club recommends the next step: empowering teams to begin to understand the behaviour changes required and encouraging your teams to become active participants in the journey toward a sustainable future.

    A key instrument at the heart of this transformation can be a series of climate workshops and team engagement. We have found Climate workshops to be a dynamic tool that not only educates but also inspires staff to embrace climate action in all aspects of their work and beyond. Below, our Lead Facilitator delves into the invaluable benefits of leveraging climate workshops to navigate mandatory climate disclosures in New Zealand.


    Feedback from Nexans, a construction company in New Zealand, who then went on to train staff to run the workshop with every single staff member over the next 2 years:

    “Great workshop! Very well done and very useful information delivered in an excellent manner.

    Highly interactive, I would highly recommend the Climate Club Workshop to anyone that is interested in improving their individual and organisational commitment to sustainability and the environment.“

    Callum Piper – Nexans

    The Superpowers of Climate Workshops in culture change

    1. Empowering Understanding
    Climate workshops serve as a cornerstone for building a deeper understanding of the climate crisis among staff. By providing a platform for interactive discussions and expert insights, these workshops empower employees to grasp the complexities of climate change and its implications for an organisation.

    2. Cultivating Climate Champions
    Through climate workshops, we have the opportunity to nurture a new generation of climate champions within teams. The workshops enable individuals to become well-versed in the science of climate change, and be passionate advocates for sustainable practices in the workplace. They become ambassadors for change, driving momentum towards our sustainability goals.

    3. Creating Support for Climate Reporting
    Mandatory climate disclosures can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, they become more manageable. Climate workshops equip teams with the skills needed to navigate climate strategy effectively, bringing everyone on-board to enthusiastically support sustainability targets. 

    4. Fostering Collaboration
    Climate workshops are not just about disseminating information; they’re about fostering collaboration and collective action. By bringing staff together in a shared learning environment, these workshops break down silos and encourage cross-departmental collaboration towards common sustainability objectives.

    5. Inspiring Innovation
    In the face of climate change, innovation is key to driving meaningful progress. Climate workshops stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving, inspiring teams to explore innovative solutions that reduce an organisation’s environmental footprint and drive business value simultaneously.

    6. Enhancing Employee Engagement
    Engaged employees are essential to the success of any organisation. Climate workshops provide a platform for meaningful engagement, empowering staff to contribute their ideas and perspectives towards sustainability strategy. As a result, organisations see increased morale, productivity, and retention rates among teams.

    7. Building Resilience
    Climate change presents risks to business operations, from supply chain disruptions to regulatory changes. Climate workshops help build resilience by equipping teams with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to these challenges proactively. By fostering a culture of resilience, we ensure the long-term sustainability of an organisation.

    8. Driving Competitive Advantage
    Finally, embracing sustainability isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic advantage. Companies that proactively address climate change not only mitigate risks but also seize new opportunities for growth and innovation. By harnessing the power of climate workshops, organisations position themselves as leaders of industry, driving positive change and setting the standard for corporate sustainability.

    In conclusion, climate workshops are a powerful tool for navigating mandatory climate disclosures in New Zealand. By empowering teams with knowledge, fostering collaboration, and inspiring action, these workshops enable organisations to meet regulatory obligations while driving meaningful progress towards a more sustainable future.

    Together, we have the opportunity to shape a world where sustainability isn’t just a goal – it’s our way of doing business.

  • How Sustainability Workshops Build Team Culture

    How Sustainability Workshops Build Team Culture

    We all understand the importance of team building, especially in these uncertain times. Investing time to bring team members together in team-building activities is always returned with a more positive work environment, staff satisfaction and employee retention. Yet, finding the right activity to truly engage and inspire teams from all backgrounds can prove challenging.

    We’re here to present a unique solution that not only meets your team building needs, but also delivers unexpected value: climate change workshops.

    Here in New Zealand, the spotlight on sustainability has never been brighter.

    It’s not just a trend; it’s a movement driving change in every aspect of our lives, including the workplace. Top NZX companies have an eagerness to foster a positive workplace culture while meeting environmental obligations, and this solution does both.

    Enter sustainability workshops – a novel approach to team building that ticks all the boxes. Empower staff to understand and combat climate change while fostering a stronger sense of teamwork and collaboration.

    “The Climate Club Workshop was a great blend of education, inspiration and team building. The engaging facilitators guided us through the games, making technical, science-based facts accessible and understandable.
    I would definitely recommend the workshop for any team, no matter what stage of the climate change journey you’re on!”
    Michal Garvey – Foodprint

    The workshops exceed expectations in several key areas:

    It’s Fun for Staff:

    There’s no other way to put it. The workshops are in-person and based around a puzzle-style game using cards and cooperation to explore sustainable solutions. Attendees come from across your whole organisation, so it’s an excellent chance for cross-functional team collaboration and exploring how teams can work together to make an impact. Participants at our workshops gave them a rating of 9.3/10.

    Understanding the Climate Crisis:

    • One of the workshop’s primary objectives is to deepen staff understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change. Through interactive sessions and expert-led discussions, teams gain invaluable insights into the pressing issues facing the planet, but understand them in a real and tangible way. Understanding the urgency of the situation not only motivates staff to take action, but also strengthens the bonds as a team united in a common cause.

    Embracing Sustainable Practices:

    • Armed with newfound knowledge, staff embark on a journey to embrace environmentally conscious practices both in and out of the workplace. From carbon footprint reductions to embracing sustainable alternatives, each change is a step in the right direction. The workshop becomes a catalyst for meaningful change within an organisation.

    Navigating Climate Reporting Obligations:

    • Corporations understand the importance of transparency and accountability, especially when it comes to mandatory climate reporting. The workshop equips staff with the tools and knowledge to be part of the conversation around sustainability strategy and climate targets. By staying ahead of the curve, organisations only meet regulatory obligations but also strengthen their reputations as responsible corporate citizens. It makes staff feel proud of their company, and it gains an organisation renown as great places to work.

    Cultivating a Sustainable Work Culture:

    • Perhaps the most significant impact of the workshops is their ability to cultivate a sustainable work culture. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, the workshops creates an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute to positive change. From brainstorming eco-friendly initiatives to supporting one another on a sustainability journey, the workshops spark a sense of camaraderie that drives teams forward.

    As your organisation looks to the future, consider how your collective efforts will shape not only your organisation but also the world around us. Together, your team and company have the power to make a difference – one workshop at a time.