Change begins in the
Understory
We empower decision-makers, advocates and activists to engage in meaningful climate dialogue across deep divides.
The climate and nature crises demand urgent action. But polarisation — fuelled by algorithms and widening political, cultural, and ideological divides — is pulling us further apart.
Mistrust and misunderstanding grow.
Disinformation spreads.
Progress stalls.
Every divide has an understory — the values, fears, and aspirations that shape how we see the world. By working skilfully with these layers, we help people build trust and deepen understanding from which collaboration can grow.
SERVICES
We can help you
Dialogue across divides
We design and lead the contentious conversations you need to have on topics like climate finance, energy transition, and nature protection. We bring diverse perspectives together to uncover new ideas, evaluate trade-offs, and find common ground — without forcing consensus or diminishing differences.
Learn from master practioners
Our inspiring, hands-on workshops — co-led with expert conflict mediators, diplomats and other skilled facilitators — equip you with the skills you need to turn conflict into collaboration. You will leave ready to navigate polarisation and lead constructive dialogues within your networks and beyond.
Gain strategic insights
We convene small, trusted groups of advocates to explore and address how polarisation and conflict impact climate action. These confidential discussions foster shared learning, strategic thinking, and fresh approaches to navigating divides or engaging with opposing views.
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Wherever you need to bring together diverse voices for climate action, we have the tools, expertise, and network to make it happen.
Nurturing dialogue between Indigenous Peoples’ organisations and international climate advocates to co-create more inclusive policies.
Supporting negotiators from 30+ countries in international climate talks to find common ground through the Cartagena Dialogue.
Facilitating dialogue between conservative politicians and youth activists on fossil fuel phase-out, climate finance, and nature protection.
ABOUT
Our approach is about stepping out of the outrage economy. Not every divide can be bridged, and consensus isn’t always required. But deeper insight and mutual respect can unlock progress and prevent destructive conflict. Understory equips you with the tools to lead in these challenging spaces.
We bring decades of experience navigating complex, divisive challenges in climate and environmental advocacy, such as:
Anastasia Kantzelis
Lawyer and mediator specialising in environmental and natural resources law, with more than a decade’s experience advising on complex treaty negotiations, litigation, and strategic legal initiatives. Skilled in simplifying technical processes and unpacking opposing views to uncover opportunities for collaboration, which are critical for progress but often lost in divisive echo chambers.
Chloe Revill
Professional facilitator, strategic advisor and former government diplomat, with 15+ years experience supporting dialogue among diverse actors within and around the UN climate negotiations. Skilled in convening high-trust dialogues to uncover common ground, and in supporting marginalised countries and communities to be heard in spaces characterized by structural power imbalances.
Philippa Bayley
PhD researcher and engagement practitioner with 20 years experience of unpacking scientific, personal and policy insights for varied audiences. Currently facilitating youth and Indigenous Peoples’ engagement with international climate policy processes. Co-active Training Institute-trained coach in private practice.
CONTACT
Understory
Understory is supported by the European Climate Foundation and Rockefeller Brothers Fund.