In part of an ongoing series we meet the team behind Climate Connect Aotearoa. This week it’s Craig Milliner, Business Development Manager
Craig! What do you do at Climate Connect Aotearoa?
My role is to help build Climate Connect Aotearoa into an organisation that empowers individuals and organisations to make decisions to meet Tāmaki Makaurau’s climate goals. Through creating connections and partnerships, I seek to raise awareness and inspire actions by bringing people and businesses together to share knowledge, devise solutions and help scale those solutions across Tāmaki Makaurau and Aotearoa.
What’s the action you hope to inspire?
I think many people expect that climate change is going to solve itself or someone will pull a solution out of a hat. But the reality is that everyone needs to play their part in some way. We need cross sector collaboration and communication, with a strong focus on ensuring those most impacted have a voice in the decisions that are made.
What’s driving you forward?
I've always been interested in sustainability and before joining Climate Connect Aotearoa I worked with an organic, sustainable coffee roasting company in several roles, most recently as Operations Manager. Climate change is something my generation — I’m in my mid-20’s — has grown up with and it will affect me and my peers significantly. So, it’s a big driver for everything that I do in my life.
And when you’re not working?
I'm studying towards my Foundation Certificate in Environment Sustainability with IEMA and also He Papa Tikanga at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.
I'm also passionate about food, coffee and my dog. I love spending time outside, going for walks and playing sports with friends