An end of year message from Gareth, Ecology’s Chief Executive

Dear Members,

Earlier this year we redefined our Purpose, which starts with the words: ‘In a world that doesn’t add up…’.

This year has been testament to that.

In climate terms, 2024 looks like it will be the warmest year on record – as more communities around the globe have felt the dramatic impact of climate change coming uncomfortably closer to home.

Meanwhile, political upheaval and change has reverberated both here and abroad with 40% of the global population taking part in national elections during the year.

In such times, organisations like ours need, more than ever, to lend our power by challenging the status quo and providing alternate ways of doing things that will make a positive difference. By doing so, we can create a current of conscientiousness for others to follow, even if our own individual impact is but a drop in the ocean.

I’m therefore pleased that, during 2024, we’ve continued to point the way forward on your behalf. From challenging the incoming Government, to supporting the ‘Restore Nature Now’ march. From making a stand against greenwashing, to helping to highlight key issues through our sponsorship of Ethical Consumer’s Climate Gap report.

We’ve been listening to your feedback too about our role as a financial services provider. Our investment in behind-the-scenes systems will bring a better online service and a new Ecology app, heralding a new era for Ecology that you – and future Members – can benefit from. Because expanding our reach and growing our Member base will mean we can increase our impact. We have exciting and ambitious plans to do that in the years ahead, which will move us closer to our vision.

And, as per our Purpose, you – and your stories – are at the heart of those plans. As I did in 2024, I look forward to speaking to many of you in the new year at our Member Meet-up events and Annual General Meeting.

In the meantime, please accept my season’s greetings and good wishes for the year ahead to you all, together with my thanks for your continued support and commitment.

Gareth