Adam Burwell

Senior Advisor, Renewable Energy and Sustainability - Elemental Group

Adam Burwell is a Senior Renewable Energy and Sustainability Advisor based in Nelson, NZ, with a strong focus on energy systems, decarbonisation and resilience. Drawing on years of experience in the private sector in advice and delivery, across policy, infrastructure, and built environment, Adam works at the intersection of strategic planning and technical delivery to support communities and organisations in navigating the energy transition. His work emphasizes practical, proven solutions for building resilient energy systems that can adapt to climate challenges while advancing equity and environmental goals.

Brad Crowley

Senior Manager, Buildings & Communities - NZGBC

Brad is the Industry Development Lead at the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), where he advocates for embedding sustainability into the built environment. He has overseen the transformation of the Green Star rating tools, driving greater industry participation and integrating best practices in carbon reduction, waste minimisation, and cultural engagement.

Brad has led the development of embodied carbon and operational waste calculators, and worked closely with the Māori Technical Working Group to incorporate indigenous values into green building standards. With over 25 years of experience in environmental strategy, auditing, and advocacy, he brings a systems-level approach to climate resilience and regenerative design.

Brad is passionate about creating buildings that not only minimise environmental impact but actively reconnect people with nature—fostering spaces that promote wellbeing, ecological awareness, and a deeper sense of place.

Marie Becdelievre

Climate Change Advisor - Nelson City Council

Marie recently completed her Masters’ research looking at local narratives of complex climate impacts and implications for adaptation response. She brings a systems view of climate adaptation, encouraging decision-makers to go beyond direct risks from climate change. She emphasises the importance of considering global risks and interactions with other trends, such as loss of biodiversity and the slowing down of economic growth.

Nathan Edmondston

Architect, Homestar Assessor, Certified Passivhaus Designer - DCA Architects, NZIA Nelson

Nathan Edmondston is the region manager for DCA Architects of Transformation in Nelson.  As an expert in sustainable buildings, he believes it is not only important to understand better building practices but to lead by example.  He lives in a certified passivhaus, 10* Homestar v5 house with his family and constantly looking ways to improve both the built and natural environment.  Nathan will be speaking about how small changes to how we design and where we build can help us adapt to our changing climate.