sustain:if:able kiwi

grassroots digital activism 12 months on

A year ago today I submitted my research ethics approval to undertake novel research into grassroots digital activism in climate justice. I was wanting to hit the ground running with my Institute for Advanced Studies in Humanities (IASH) Fellowship through Edinburgh University in June and July 2024.

My interest in researching grassroots digital activism in climate justice had been sparked by two experiences. First, research with Te Pae Tawhiti 2040 project on the future of theological education for the Anglican Province of Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia and being in Fiji hearing the priority of climate justice among those in the Anglican Diocese of Polynesia. Second, being asked to write a book chapter on mission and digital cultures for a handbook with Oxford University Press and finding less research on the marks of mission of treasuring creation than telling and tending disciples.

Thankfully, the ethics approval was granted and the Fellowship with IASH was a great experience. In the 12 months since, a range of research outputs have flowed. These include a journal article with Theology and an academic book chapter with Bloomsbury (both forthcoming). There have been 4 presentations of the research. Plus a successful 1 day Colloquium back in Edinburgh in April this year, which I continue to progress toward an edited book.

Yesterday I pulled out the ethics consent forms. I needed them as I talked with a digital activist group about their possible participation in the project and as I write up a second book chapter. It was uncanny how 12 months on, the ethics consent forms still exactly fit with how the research has unfolded.

Looking at the ethics consent forms helped me recall the excitement and vulnerability of starting a new research project and stepping into an overseas university ethics process. Along with joy at what has resulted and hopefulness about the ongoing future of this particular research project.