An ethical design agency
Advocate is an ethical design agency because it meets four criteria:
- I only work with ethical organisations.
- I’m personally committed to addressing environmental issues.
- I offer fair rates for good causes.
- I operate the business in an ethical and environmentally conscious way.
01. Working only with ethical organisations
What makes a design agency an ethical design agency is working only with ethical organisations.
The outcomes of an agency’s work will have far greater social and environmental impact than the way the agency itself operates. For example, an agency that helps grow an oil company will create harm that far outweighs any steps it takes to reduce its own environmental footprint. Conversely, assisting a renewable energy company to double its customers, as I have done, makes a tremendous positive difference.
I believe my responsibility as a designer extends far beyond my own operations. It lies in the impact I create through the clients I choose to empower.
After graduating in 1996, I honed my skills as a graphic designer at the Centre for Alternative Technology, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Gaia Books and a design agency for high-profile arts organisations.
Then, in 2003, I launched Advocate as one of the first ethical design agencies, specifically to support businesses, charities, public sector bodies, universities, social enterprises, and campaigners contributing to a greener, fairer, and better world. I’ve been helping to amplify their positive impact ever since.
02. Personal commitment
For around 20 years, I was an environmental campaigner and activist. Campaigning and taking peaceful direct action on the most pressing environmental issues.
This unique combination of design expertise and activism is an unparalleled level of dedication to creating a better world.
03. Fair rates for good causes
Without the overheads of a typical agency – salespeople, account handlers, and a fancy office – I can invest more time on your project, for your budget, ensuring the best possible outcomes. And to support grassroots groups, small charities, and good causes with modest resources, I offer a lower hourly rate to help them access effective design. My design rates.
04. Operating ethically and sustainably
My business, like all organisations, has an environmental impact, and I am taking measures to reduce this:
Energy
The electricity I use comes from 100% renewable sources.
Website
My website is hosted on servers powered by renewable energy. I have designed the site to minimise its carbon footprint. For example, this page is in the top 1% of web pages tested on the Website Carbon Calculator.
Cloud hosting
A significant percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions comes from servers running cloud storage. Unlike many businesses, I don’t store files on the cloud, entirely avoiding this problem.
Office equipment
My computers and phones last me a long time. I only buy new equipment when absolutely necessary.
Recycling
I recycle old computers, ink cartridges, glass, plastic, metal, paper and card.
Travel
I use the phone, email, and video calls to reduce the need for travel. When I do need to travel, I try to use public transport. Conveniently, I’m based just five minutes’ walk from a mainline train station with direct access to London.
Commuting
I work from my home office, so there is no commute.