OUR STORY
I started Treo House in September 2025, inspired by a personal need. After studying environmental sciences at university, I started my career in corporate sustainability, and soon observed two things.
Firstly, that this work is complex. Responding to problems like climate change isn’t just a scientific problem. It’s an economical, historical, philosophical, psychological, technical and political problem. The ‘solutions’ are full of contradictions; there is no one ‘right’ way to do things. Making sense of the situation and responding appropriately requires advanced human capabilities. I felt I had a lot to learn. Not textbook stuff – but the continuous and less-comfortable learning that comes from real life experience.
My second observation, was that the work is taking a real toll on the people trying to do it. Empathetic and motivated people around me were feeling drained, disillusioned and burnt out. Feelings I eventually came to experience myself. Many of us didn’t have the words to explain it, and certainly not the support to handle it. A huge risk to our individual wellbeing, the quality of our work and our collective progress.
It was from these two problems that I became particularly interested in community. Since no one can hold all sustainability expertise on their own, it’s clear that we have to learn from each other. From personal experience, I also know that when times get tough, community can pull you through.
And so I decided to start Treo House. Over the first year, I have been blown away by the people who have got involved. Down to earth, open-minded and passionate people who have so much to share and even better questions. I have noticed a collective desire for honesty, leaning into the uncomfortable and genuine friendship.
We don’t have all the answers, but even in just one year we have learnt so much. I’m sure there is a long journey ahead, come and get involved.
Gemma Lannon
Founder & Executive Director
