Architects’ Climate Action Network Collective Action
The Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN) is an open network of individuals
within architecture and related built environment professions taking action to address
the twin crises of climate and ecological breakdown.
Architect and ACAN co-founder Lauren Shevills will speak about the powerful reach
ACAN has achieved, collaboratively and as a collective committed to action
addressing climate and ecological breakdown, specific ACAN initiatives and what the
next steps are.
“Like many such campaigning coalitions, ACAN was born from the sense of a void;
the feeling that an appropriately strong voice on climate change was absent in the
world of architecture”, says Lauren.
Beginning life as a handful of architects discussing how they might launch a climate
activist group in the summer of 2019, ACAN has since grown organically to include
around 300 active members in the UK. It has now established similar connections
with other international groups, as well as a small family of international ACAN
groups.
About Lauren Shevills:
Lauren is an architect and activist campaigner who believes the role of the architect
is broad, which involves giving back to the city and engaging with local community.
She takes an active role in championing community interest and designing well
considered and beautifully crafted spaces.
With over 10 years professional experience in architectural design, teaching and
fabrication both in London and in Copenhagen, Lauren’s key interests lie in research
and collective action through architectural activism whilst focusing on delivering
quality architecture for positive social change. Since spring 2022 she has been
working as Place Shaping Officer, Westminster City Council, and a Public Practice
Associate.