The operating context of philanthropy is changing. We’re going through a period of rapid and often unpredictable change, both in the UK and overseas.
In autumn 2025, we launched a new series of conversations with environmental leaders that sit outside of philanthropy and explore what “stepping up” to this political moment looks like. Join future events with your own questions, challenges and ideas so we can explore this together.
Below are all the recordings from our Stepping Up series. EFN funder members have been emailed the password.
Past & Future Speakers
In conversation with Emma Pinchbeck
At our fourth Stepping Up event, we spoke to Emma Pinchbeck, CEO of the Climate Change Committee (CCC). Having previously led the industry body, Energy UK, Emma joined the CCC with expertise in how to make a renewables-based future a reality. Now she is focused on providing the government with clear and focused critique on its progress towards Net Zero. We explored her role as a watchdog, asking if the government is stepping up to it’s Net Zero commitments and what does the role of philanthropy looks like in achieving them?
In conversation with Chris Packham
At out third Stepping Up event, we spoke to conservationist, author, environmental campaigner and wildlife presenter Chris Packham. He campaigns for just transitions towards positive environmental necessities – from fossil fuels to renewable energies, from industrial and intensive animal agriculture to plant-based alternatives, from chemical dependent to regenerative farming, and from declining biodiversity to nature recovery.
In conversation with Indy Johar
Our second event in the Stepping Up series, was with Indy Johar, Founder of Dark Matter Labs. He is part of a collective, who are reimagining how we build in a climate-changed world, while embracing circularity and prioritising societal wellbeing. What role does philanthropy play in stepping up to the systematic, structural and societal change needed to ready our built environments for a world that is 3 degrees warmer?
In conversation with Ruth Davis
Our first event in the Stepping Up series was with Ruth Davis, UK Special Representative for Nature. Her role is a first for the UK government and demonstrates a commitment to increase senior diplomatic engagement with nature. Is this what stepping up looks like?
watch
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EFN members have been emailed the password to this recording. If you cannot find the password, please email us to get the password to view. Events like this are a benefit for members of EFN. EFN membership is free and members benefit from funder-only events, spaces and opportunities.