Urban Catalyst appoints leading climate science expert as sustainability adviser

A scientist who helped establish a leading climate change research centre has become the chief sustainability adviser to Urban Catalyst, the London-based developer.

Professor Trevor Davies, who played a part in getting the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research off the ground and is now deputy director, has taken on an unpaid role with the firm, which specialises in mixed-use developments and large-scale regeneration projects.

Davies has previously been director of the Climatic Research Unit at the University of East Anglia and director of international development for the Tyndall Centre.

His expertise will help Urban Catalyst “better inform its current and future developments” as calls for a ‘green recovery’ from the covid-19 pandemic grown, the company said.

“Creating places that promote sustainable and healthy living has always been our aim and by having Professor Davies onboard as an adviser we hope to benefit from his immense expertise and knowledge and find real world applications for his research and long-standing interest in carbon reduction to our developments,” said Ken Dytor, executive chairman of Urban Catalyst.

The company is delivering the £1 billion Purfleet-on-Thames regeneration alongside Swan Housing Association and Thurrock Council. The scheme aims to minimise car use and support pedestrians and cyclists.

Professor Davies added: “Sustainability has fallen up and down the agenda for the past few decades but there is now a clear potential for building on the widespread change in attitudes during the pandemic. Lockdown has made many realise the negative effects we have on our environment as a species and in turn how that impacts our own health.

“I will be working closely with Urban Catalyst to see how use of technology combined with intelligent urban design can create places that are more sustainable, resilient and healthier.”

Image credit l Urban Catalyst