PORTFOLIO

Building climate action. Literally.

Strategy

Design

Creative Strategy

Brand Identity

UI/UX

Out of Home

Events and Activations

Architecture

Content

Games

PORTFOLIO

Building climate action. Literally.

Strategy

Design

Creative Strategy

Brand Identity

UI/UX

Out of Home

Events and Activations

Architecture

Content

Games

WHAT MATTERED

Climate change messaging often lives in contradiction, especially when presented in spaces that consume large amounts of energy. We wanted to position Cape Town credibly as a leader in climate action, and so we needed to demonstrate this commitment in a very tangible and uncompromising way.

INSIGHTS

Rather than simply telling the story of sustainability, we realised the stand itself could become the proof – the medium would then become the message. If we could build something that operated entirely off-grid, using waste as a resource, and be totally self-sufficient in a space where everyone else was dependent, we could transform an exhibition space into a living example of climate-smart thinking.

“DERRICK’S WORK WAS TRULY OUTSTANDING.”

Sarah Ward, Head of Climate Change and Sustainability, City of Cape Town

BRAND JOURNEY

In the lead-up to COP17, we built momentum through an integrated campaign that included print, press, digital and on-the-ground activations. We even staged mock demonstrations, bringing climate conversations to the streets of Cape Town.

A ZERO WASTE PAVILION

At the COP17 Expo, we created a fully self-sufficient, off-grid, zero-waste stand built entirely from recycled and reusable materials. The structure was constructed from 1884 plastic milk crates and over 22000 used milk bottles, forming a striking “jewel box” that echoed the silhouette of Table Mountain.

OFF-GRID ENERGY

Powered by solar panels and a wind turbine, the pavilion operated independently of the grid. Smart architecture kept the stand cool without the need for any air-conditioning systems, a stark contrast to the energy-intensive stands around it.

INTERACTIVE STORYTELLING

Inside, delegates explored Cape Town’s climate-smart initiatives and played “POP17”, an interactive game that used live air-quality data to challenge players to “clear the air” and rethink their behaviour.

ZERO-WASTE LIFECYCLE

When COP17 ended, every element of the pavilion was either recycled or returned, and the local workers who helped build it were part of dismantling it, leaving no trace behind.

IMPACT

In a space defined by contradiction, the Climate Smart Cape Town pavilion stood apart as a fully realised example of sustainable thinking in action. It became a beacon for delegates and the public alike, demonstrating that cities can lead with practical, scalable solutions.

Best Overall Stand

29 st

Reusable Materials

Best Campaign

27 st

Bottles Recycled