Thomas Rickard
I am an independent researcher and facilitator specializing in participatory environmental governance. My focus is on transdisciplinary and trans sectoral work to support effective environmental management and decision-making. Within this, I am fascinated by river management, exploring innovative approaches to human and more-than-human participation, rights of nature, and transforming relationships with the natural world.
With a B.Sc. in Human Sciences from Sussex University and a Masters and PhD in the Analysis and Modelling of Environmental Systems from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil, my academic foundation is complemented by extensive training in systems and complexity thinking, ecological design, and environmental narrative analysis. I bring experience in environmental policy analysis, institutional and process design, and facilitation, ensuring a balance between inclusion and efficient decision-making.
We need to integrate both human and more-than-human perspectives into environmental governance, but this also requires personal transformation. My professional work is supported by personal spiritual practices rooted in Zen Buddhism, Qi Gong, and Quakerism, which nurture a deep, reflective relationship with the natural world. My communication style is grounded in attentiveness and patience, fostering rapport and understanding with diverse stakeholders.
Currently, I am committed to advancing environmental and water management in the UK by engaging with innovative efforts around rivers, such as river rights movements and their connections to catchment partnerships and state agencies.
If you work with environmental and river management in academia, consultancy, or civil service, and you are looking for collaborative, thoughtful expertise to address today’s environmental challenges, I look forward to our conversations.
Thomas Rickard is the interim coordinator of the UK Rights of Nature Network, non-executive director of we are Nature-Based CIC, and steering group member of Friends of the River Exe.
UK River Guardianship - https://medium.com/@trickard1000/uk-river-guardianship-fa66bf57d263
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslloydrickard/
UK RoN Network - https://www.ukrightsofnature.org/