I'm a political geographer, interested in the contested character of environmental and energy policy, politics and governance. This is with a particular focus on the local politics of climate change policies and energy generation and consumption – and moves across three interrelated themes:

‘Just transition’ - exploring how environmental and energy policy must be equitable and inclusive. Whilst there is an urgency around discussing and mitigating climate change, it is important to ensure that segments of our community (at local, national and global levels) are not left behind or unsupported. This work includes research into the aviation sector, climate resilience, local environmental voices, and the use of digital technologies in managing household energy demand.

In addition to the above, I am currently writing a book on renewable energies and social justice - focusing on how localised, place-based approaches might allow for a more equitable, just transition to a low-carbon economy. 

The localised energy demands of digital technologies - I am starting new work that focuses on an emergent use of energy in the 21st century. This analyses the role that energy demands associated with data centres and digital technologies can play in patterns of uneven development, globalisation and energy justice, as well as necessitating new policy regimes. This work includes research into cryptocurrency ‘mining’ and broader data centres associated with our internet use.

The contentious politics of hydropower - exploring the contested sustainability of hydropower in the Brazilian Amazon. In particular, I am interested in how social movements and civil society actors have contested the Belo Monte and São Luiz do Tapajós dams. This work includes research into how hydroelectric dams can transform a waterscape and how movements against them challenge dominant understandings of hydropower as a ‘green’ energy source that has a role in energy transitions.

In addition to these routes of research, I am a member of the Bristol Advisory Committee on Climate Change, as well as sitting on Steering Committees for the Bristol Inclusive Economy Initiative and the UK Future Earth Early Career Network. 

I am currently welcoming PhD students interested in work at the intersection of environmental justice, sustainable energy transitions, and just transition and the Green New Deal.