EnviroPAST: Plastic and Sustainability Talks is a by-youth-for-youth initiative and forum, bringing together young people and industry experts in an exciting mix of speaker sessions, workshops and community projects.
First envisioned in 2018 by E Wen Wong, founder of the ocean-advocacy organisation P.S. Our Beaches (now a registered charity), EnviroPAST’s inaugural conference took place in 2019 at the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. The second conference, held in 2021 at the University Of Canterbury, continued to build upon the momentum of the first event, providing an inspirational two days for young people to learn and connect. In 2022, the conference moved north to Wellington at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University, bringing the conference and its message to a new audience.
In 2023, EnviroPAST returned to Wellington reimagined as an interactive youth sustainability forum.
EnviroPAST has been made possible thanks to the support of many generous organisations and businesses. In particular, the Wright Family Foundation has been instrumental in supporting the event and has sponsored every conference/forum. Each year, the conference is organised by a volunteer team of young people.
“I’ve been around a few conferences and events in my time and this one was one of the best ever. Two days of focused attention on the challenges that we all face at so many levels from our almost complete reliance on plastics. Just astounded by the attitude, skills and passion shown today by our next generation of humans. What’s the most impressive thing is that this whole event was put together by such a young group of amazing humans. Can’t wait to see this event come back next year and then go national – cos it needs to!”
Tim Jones
2019, 2021 & 2022 MC
Our team
Meet the committee who organised the 2023 Wellington Forum.
EMMA BURTON
Team COORDINATOR
Kia ora! My name is Emma, and I am going into my third year, studying a Bachelor of Design at Massey University. I am super passionate about using design as a voice to communicate complex issues, and how we can improve sustainability in the arts space. This will be my third year on the organising team and second time as coordinator, and cannot wait to show you EnviroPAST 2023!
MARIA WILLIAMS
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Kia ora, my name is Maria. I am a second year student studying Communications at Massey University. I’m so excited to be joining the EnviroPAST team in the communications role. I love learning about all things sustainability and can’t wait to learn even more from this forum.
WILL WRAY
ADMINISTRATIoN OFFICER
Kia ora! I’m Will and I’m a law and commerce student at the University of Otago. I manage the admin for the forum, from our website and ticketing to forum app. I’m excited to be helping create another incredible two days for young Wellingtonians to learn and connect.
Ursula Palmer Steeds
DESIGN AND MARKETING OFFICER
Kia ora! My name is Ursula, born and bred Wellingtonian, second year spatial design student at Massey University. I am super passionate about all things sustainability and love working with our community to look after Aotearoa. Looking forward to seeing you all at EnviroPast 2023!!!
GRAYSON SCADDEN
LOGISTICS OFFICER
Kia ora! My name is Grayson Scadden, I am a third year Industrial Design student studying in Wellington. I’m very excited to be involved in such an awesome opportunity as EnviroPAST and am looking forward to an amazing forum!