Gautier Houel used to write climate policies for the French government. Now he's bringing that expertise to a new council initiative.
The 42-year-old founder of The Green Londoner is one of 15 residents taking part in H&F Council's new Climate Champions programme.
The free offer equips passionate residents with the skills to bring improvements to their local areas.
"When I heard about the H&F Climate Champion scheme, I knew it was the perfect way to connect with other residents passionate about climate action," said Gautier.
Gautier's path to local climate action began with a career change and a move to Hammersmith eight years ago. After a career in climate diplomacy, becoming a father inspired Gautier to shift from policy to green journalism.
He often finds inspiration at his favourite green spot, Margravine Cemetery, where cherry blossoms now add splashes of colour. The historic 17-acre site behind Charing Cross Hospital has been a wildlife haven since 1869.
"Many people want to be more environmentally conscious but feel overwhelmed," he explained. "I want to make sustainability practical, accessible, and local."
Homegrown change makers
Gautier's platform, The Green Londoner, bridges the gap between climate experts, policymakers, businesses and residents by highlighting how to turn green intentions into action.
Between January and March, he joined more than a dozen fellow 'champions' in four specialist workshops.
These covered climate science, community engagement techniques, and practical project planning, funded by H&F Council and delivered in partnership with Groundwork London. Cllr Wesley Harcourt, H&F Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Ecology, said:
We want to help harness the incredible passion for climate action across H&F. Our new support puts resources behind that enthusiasm to create change at street level."
Post training, the Climate Champions programme offers ongoing support for residents to develop their own environmental initiatives.
He is just one of 15 Champions now working to turn environmental concern into action. The programme has already taken root.
As a Climate Champion, Gautier is now developing 'green living workshops', local 'eco' walking tours and volunteering days to help residents make sustainable choices in their everyday lives.
The next event – on water pollution – is coming up on 12 April near Hammersmith Bridge. Sign up on Luma.
Join the journey
Beyond his role as a Climate Champion, Gautier collaborates with the H&F Climate Alliance, a network of businesses and organisations accelerating local climate action.
With support from H&F Business Connects, The Green Londoner also helps sustainable businesses gain visibility.
To follow Gautier's work or connect with him on your local eco-initiative, contact him at contact@thegreenlondoner.co.uk or visit The Green Londoner website.
