Harnessing Renewable Energy for Future Generations
Supporting sustainable development, community resilience, and environmental conservation through innovative renewable energy projects.
John Pontin OBE
A visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for sustainable development
Bristol-based Entrepreneur
Founder of the JT Group in 1961, a property development company that played a pivotal role in the regeneration of Bristol's harbourside.
Learn about his work with ArnolfiniSustainable Development Pioneer
Transformed Bush House into the Arnolfini arts centre and developed the Watershed Media Centre, integrating environmental sustainability with community enrichment.
Global Vision
Co-founded The Converging World (TCW) in 2006, addressing global inequalities through environmental initiatives based on "contraction and convergence" principles.
Read his book "The Converging World"Academic Recognition
Awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science by the University of Bristol in recognition of his contribution to sustainable development.
View honorary degree details
Renewable Energy for All
Investing in renewable energy projects to benefit all British citizens and create a sustainable future
The Community Resilience Fund
Our innovative concept recognizes that newborn children arrive with their prospective lifetime carbon footprint. We started this project in Bristol, with profits from renewable energy projects forming a community resilience fund.
The 2024 fund 'matures' in 2084 - 60 years - and its sole purpose is to have captured the power of free foreign renewable energy (yielding 10% per annum) over the first 60 years of their lifetime.
After 60 years, the 2024 CRF fund would have a value of approximately £1,250,000,000, less drawdowns over 60 years. It will resemble a "community" pension pot to include every Bristol 60-year-old citizen for the remainder of their lives to cover unexpected costs, such as costly weather events, restoring nature's resilience, and adding NHS resources.
Our Three Main Focus Areas
Climate Action
Addressing climate change through renewable energy and carbon reduction initiatives
Poverty Reduction
Creating economic opportunities and resilience in communities
Nature Resilience
Restoring and protecting natural ecosystems for future generations
Both the John Pontin Trust and The Converging World charities follow the charitable model established by Leonard & Dorothy Elmhirst at Dartington, Devon, UK. This model emphasizes sustainable development, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
The Standard Chartered Bank has recently published the SAUR Report, which exactly mirrors our financial model. This validation from a major financial institution underscores the viability and importance of our approach to renewable energy investment.
"The Converging World" by John Pontin explores the innovative concept of using renewable energy to address global inequalities and create sustainable communities.
The book details how communities in the developed world can reduce their carbon footprints while supporting renewable energy projects in developing regions, creating a virtuous cycle of environmental and social benefits.
Subtitle: How One Community's Path to Zero Waste is Helping Save Our Planet
Purchase the BookOur Key Projects
From renewable energy in India to community resilience in the UK, our projects create lasting positive impact
These wind turbines generate clean energy while providing economic benefits to local communities. The profits are reinvested in community development and climate adaptation efforts.
Our innovative fund captures the value of renewable energy investments over 60 years to create a community resource that will help Bristol citizens face future challenges.
From 2006, our experience is based upon installing low carbon energy technologies in communities in India and other developing countries, creating sustainable energy solutions where they're needed most.
Making a Difference
Our projects have created significant positive impacts on communities and the environment
Tamil Nadu Wind Energy Project
Our wind turbines in Tamil Nadu generate clean energy and reinvest profits into local community development.
Bristol Harbourside Regeneration
Transformation of Bristol's industrial heritage into vibrant community spaces.
Community Resilience Initiatives
Building sustainable communities that can adapt to future environmental and social challenges.
Sustainable Education Program
Educating the next generation on sustainable development principles and environmental stewardship.
Latest from the Trust
Stay updated with our latest news, events, and project developments
Annual Sustainability Lecture at University of Bristol
John Pontin delivered the annual sustainability lecture at the University of Bristol, discussing the future of community resilience funds and renewable energy.
International Renewable Energy Conference Participation
Representatives from The Converging World participated in the International Renewable Energy Conference, sharing insights from our projects in India.
Get in Touch
Whether you're interested in our work, want to apply for funding, or wish to collaborate, we'd love to hear from you.
Address
123 Harbourside Way, Bristol, BS1 5TE, United Kingdom
info@johnpontintrust.org.uk
Phone
+44 (0) 7939312876