How Isabel Mack sparked a global waste-reduction effort from her kitchen table
In 2019, Isabel Mack came across a simple idea: lending reusable tableware for children’s parties to reduce waste. From her kitchen table in Winchester, that idea grew into the Party Kit Network; a global, volunteer-powered movement now spanning nearly 600 local lenders across the UK, Australia, and the US. Together, they’ve helped avoid over a million single-use items. With no central inventory or profit motive, the network thrives on community spirit and a shared joy in doing things differently. It’s a quiet but powerful model of circular living, proving that real change can start small, and grow hand to hand.
Kate is growing a region-first green economy platform with no outside funding
When Kate Hutchinson walked through fire – literally – she found her purpose on the other side. From a single event in Yorkshire, she’s built The Sustainability Community into a 12,000-strong network accelerating the green economy across the UK. Her region-first model puts local voices at the heart of national change, proving that transformation doesn’t have to come from the centre. With no outside funding, she’s built momentum through story-led events, inclusive strategy, and a steadfast belief in people. “Not everything good happens in London,” she says. “And the journey to net zero must be led region by region.” This is what good growth looks like.
