EcoDriven, the creators of a UK-wide sustainability innovation roadshow, has kicked off its year-long nationwide tour in Cornwall, using a former GH Watts MCW Metrobus converted to a mobile exhibition space. The EcoDriven project was founded by John Patterson and aims to raise awareness of sustainable products and services. The tour will see John travel in the bus, which he has named ‘Amelia’ and which has been refitted as a platform to showcase green innovation.
Over the course of the 12-month trip, the EcoDriven bus will visit a wide variety of destinations that span the length and breadth of Britain. Stops are planned from Truro to Edinburgh, with a mix of businesses, communities and councils playing host. It’s expected that the bus will visit more than 20 towns and cities, with more expected to come on board as the tour progresses. In each location, EcoDriven will run events that capture the spirit of community, share best practices and advice, and spotlight new, inventive ideas. The bus will also stage a series of ‘Backseat Talks’, filmed and posted online, to help drive the conversation around sustainable practices.
Businesses from the UK and beyond are contributing to the project through the donation of eco-friendly products, materials and services, including the supply of Bandvulc Citymaster 5 retread tyres and tyre pressure monitoring services from Continental, natural wool insulation from Sisaltech, solar panels from UK SOL, and Armacell insulating panels produced from recycled PET plastic.
“The EcoDriven journey is about making sustainability fun, easy and accessible,” said John. “I’ve been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from like-minded organisations, each keen to prove that environmentally focused solutions are available and are effective. This journey is all about putting these products front and centre.
“While I’m excited to celebrate the here and now, the tour is also about inspiring the next generation of inventors and innovators. We’re still very much at the start of our sustainability journey. If we’re to succeed, it’s a principle that needs to be embraced by our children, their children and the generations beyond. Even if one young person is interested in a career in sustainable design or engineering as a result of our tour, it would be an amazing legacy to have.”
