We were delighted to host a lecture from Andy Cummins who addressed Nexus students on the important campaign work he undertook with Surfers Against Sewage.
Andy took us through the strategic process of planning a campaign with a valuable insight into how the ‘Break the Bag Habit’ campaign found success in targeting industry, government and the public in instigating real change with the charge for plastic bags in supermarkets. The impact has been profound: the plastic bag charge has resulted in a decrease of 6 billion fewer bags and an 84% change in shopper’s attitudes towards reusing plastic bags.
Andy’s message was of the importance of being proactive and making a positive impact through campaigning. His quote from Chinese Philosopher Lao-tzu resonated in the lecture theatre: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”. He urged the students to think practically about the changes they want to see in society and to consider the small steps they could take towards achieving it.
The audience were very engaged and there was a clear sense of enthusiasm in the room. We would like to thank Andy for his time and for inspiring our students to consider how they can make a difference in the world.