Cato Sandford

Environmental issues are a strong motivator for me: I work in climate and energy policy, supporting environmental NGOs with technical research and analysis on topics ranging from deforestation to the electric vehicle transition to corporate emissions reporting. But whatever the topic -- and lets face it, there are few non-nuanced topics left out there -- I hope to bring a balanced-but-reasoned approach to framing the discussion and finding solutions. I've lived in London for much of my life (with prolonged stints in New York and New Delhi). I've never voted anything but Green, and have followed the steady efforts of our Green representatives in Westminster and in councils across the country. The recent surge of enthusiasm and ambition has been pretty astonishing. I mean, we all want to live in a vibrant, healthy, and humane society, and I see the Greens as offering unique clarity on the values that will guide them towards that goal, as well as openness to engage seriously with practical detail (love a bit of detail). It's glib maybe but I've been so impressed by my fellow Green candidates who are prepared to stand for their values while also fighting for the interests of their communities and constituents. We are uniquely placed to offer an alternative-but-constructive voice on Southwark Council: on safer quieter streets, social and economic inequality, improved air, green space and wellbeing, school amenities, support for those walloped by the cost of living, on the responsiveness of the council infrastructure to issues raised by residents, etc. Check out the Southwark Green Party manifesto here https://www.southwarkgreenparty.org.uk/manifesto, and note there may be items you agree with or disagree with, but the important thing is to have to opportunity for an honest discussion. A couple more things about me. I have a PhD in physics but numbers still scare me sometimes. I believe volunteering is a wonderful way to push one's comfort zone and cross unexpected paths. I think curiosity and open-mindedness are top virtues, as they enable a foundation of compassion and an impetus towards understanding. I love it when people make weird or playful art just because they want to, and even more when they they subject their friends and family to it. But above all, I would love to have more Green voices on Southwark council pushing the needle on all the important issues!