ecology – iˈkɒl.ə.dʒi:
deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings
politic – pɒl.ɪ.tɪk:
wise and showing the ability to make the right decisions – being judicious, tactful
who we are
We are a specialist advisory firm with the singular aim to bring together the ecological and political to foster a preferred now and future – our name reflects this fusion. In that vein, our theory and approach is based on three areas of research and enquiry:
- Political Ecology – examines how and why economic structures and power relations drive environmental change in an increasingly interconnected world.
- Political Economy – focuses on the interrelationships of individuals, governments, and public policy.
- Complexity Science – allows us to better understand systems as diverse as cells, human beings, forest ecosystems, and organizations, that are only partially understood by traditional scientific methods but perhaps more so by indigenous wisdom.
our values
- We are intellectually curious and fearless.
- We demand open-mindedness, imagination and courage.
- For us, nothing is impossible and unchallengeable.
- Analytical rigour defines our approach and results.
- We’re firm on our views but equally accept and learn from our mistakes to continually improve.
- We firmly believe in the power of diversity in all aspects where it brings powerful ideas to the table for our clients and energy for our company.
- We act as planetary soldiers – we care a lot for our ‘blue dot’ and how humanity could and should ‘play’ on it to obtain perpetual harmony.
Shaun Deverson
Founder & Principal Consultant
Shaun is a Masters qualified environmental engineer and complex systems practitioner who helps leaders see the world as it is, creating pathways to optimal fit for purpose strategies and solutions. He is also a PhD Candidate at the Queensland University of Technology, researching ways to reimagine environmental law. He is the Founder of Ecolitic, a company dedicated to bridging the gap between power and nature, the political and ecological, one of the first company’s in the world providing such a service.
Shaun has worked across the globe in the capacity as business leader and trusted advisor. He provides guest lecturing, workshop facilitation and stakeholder meetings for institutions related to policy, leadership, transition, climate change and economic opportunity. He is regularly requested to provide keynote talks and contributions to global conferences.
Some fun ‘Shaun’ facts:
Favourite Movie: Shawshank Redemption
Favourite Novel: Devils, Fyodor Dostoevsky
Favourite Quote: “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go”. T.S Eliot
Hobbies: Diving, Reading, Running, Eating (and running again because I’ve eaten too much!)
Three personal adjectives: Determined – Curious – Playful
Dr. Richard Hames
Associate, Principal Consultant
Described by Forbes Asia as “one of the smartest people on the planet”, Richard’s groundbreaking insights challenge the boundaries of conventional thinking and inspire us to reimagine our collective future.
A polymath, dynamic public speaker, and visionary entrepreneur, Richard stands as a trailblazing force in global leadership, constantly sought by governments and business leaders for his searing intellect and remarkably accurate foresight on all issues concerning the future of humanity.
As well as his advisory services to clients, Richard will be supporting the development of Ecolitic’s training arm, EAGLe – Ecolitic Academy of Governance and Leadership.
Some fun ‘Richard’ facts:
Favourite Movie: Coming Home by Zhang Yimou
Favourite Novel: Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe
Favourite Quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken”. Oscar Wilde
Hobbies: Parenting, philanthropy, and sitting in solitude
Three personal adjectives: Unassuming – Inquisitive – Pensive
Sally-Anne Kasner
Associate, Principal Consultant
Sally-Anne is a Director of Circular-Vision, a Circular Economy strategy and design consultancy. She is passionate about making a positive impact by identifying opportunities to shift circular economy principles into implementation. Her focus is on driving economic, social and environmental prosperity through connecting across the value chain; collaborating on projects; creating new business models that respond to circular economy principles, leading to a thriving and inclusive economy. A background in waste minimisation and many years in the resource efficiency and cleaner production consulting environment, has provided a sound base from which to work.
She is also a founding member of the African Circular Economy Network and remains on the executive team (NPC 2020/115399/08 – www.acen.africa). Africa is in her heart forever and whilst she is on a different continent, she will always look for opportunities to help shape an #Africawewant for all.
She was previously an Executive Associate at JG Afrika (an engineering and environmental consultancy), a founding member of EcoStandard (083-558-NPO – www.ecostandard.co.za), and a Non-Executive Director of Polyco (www.polyco.co.za ).
Some fun ‘Sally-Anne’ facts:
Favourite Movie: Love Actually
Favourite Novel: The Omnivores Dilemma, Michael Pollan
Favourite Quote: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together”. African proverb
Hobbies: Camping, Reading, Running (although since having children this is more like fast walking!)
Three personal adjectives: Inquisitive – Impulsive – Optimist