The Shift Conference

Shift is our annual climate conference dedicated to decarbonising the built environment. Bringing together people from across industries and disciplines, it provides an opportunity to exchange knowledge, challenge assumptions and explore different approaches to tackling climate change.

Since its launch in 2022, Shift has explored the environmental impact of the buildings we design, construct and operate, from reducing embodied carbon and reconsidering material choices to adapting existing buildings for a changing climate.

Each year, the conference encourages us to look beyond our own industry, learn from different perspectives and consider how shared knowledge can translate into meaningful action.

Each year Shift is chaired by Surfers Against Sewage Founder Chris Hines, whose guidance sets the tone of the day and keeps the focus on practical possibility. Over the years, we have welcomed many voices that continue to influence how the industry thinks and acts. Jonathon Porritt CBE has spoken about the futures we create. Emily Penn has shared a compelling view on responsibility and the importance of micro-actions. John Elkington has challenged traditional thinking and encouraged regenerative practice. Climate Activist Clover Hogan, Patagonia Marketing Manager Gabe Davies, and Eco-Adventurer Andy Pag have brought energy, insight, and urgency, each in their own way.

These speakers represent a broad mix of expertise. Their contributions form a collective momentum that carries beyond the event, informing the decisions made in studios, on sites and across organisations.

Shift extends beyond the conference itself, providing a resource for continued learning throughout the year. Every edition is recorded and added to an open archive of over 200 presentations, interviews and panel discussions, making the knowledge shared at Shift accessible to a wider audience.

The archive encourages people to revisit conversations, share insights with colleagues and apply new thinking to their own work. By keeping these discussions available, we hope to support continued collaboration and practical progress on decarbonisation.