Bristol-Born Ecojam goes National with New Website

Ecojam, Bristol's fastest-growing online green and ethical community, sets its sights on national reach by expanding to Bath, London and across the UK.

Throughout Bristol’s European Green Capital year, the Ecojam team are on the hunt for people to kick-start Ecojam in their local area via a UK-wide network of green online hubs. 

Ecojam – and Bristol’s vision to become European Green Capital – emerged out of a series of ‘world cafés’ organised by the University of Bristol between 2007 and 2010, during which 300 participants developed ideas on how to make Bristol more sustainable. Ecojam was developed to continue the discussions online and get more people involved. Before long, the site had become the most active green network in Bristol, with over 5,000 members, an active and rapidly growing community on social media, and an incredible 1,250 events and jobs added by members each year.

For over six years, Ecojam has successfully helped local people find jobs with ‘good’ businesses and organisations, mobilised hundreds of volunteers, increased attendance at community events, created a sharing economy, and raised awareness of local projects.

Ecojam is now turning to the next chapter of its story with its brand new website and look, an area where people can donate free, unwanted household items, and a big idea to bring Ecojam to communities across the UK, starting with Bath and London. The team is now seeking passionate individuals or organisations to set up an Ecojam in their local area.

Matt Fortnam, Founder and Director said: “We’re really excited about expanding Ecojam. For years, people from other parts of the UK have cried out for an Ecojam. Our new website can help connect people and promote green activities in communities up and down the UK. Given our shared history with Bristol’s Green Capital bid, it seems fitting that we start sharing the Ecojam love in 2015.”

“When Ecojam was developed at the University of Bristol six years ago, we never imagined how active it would be today – an incredible testament to Bristol leading the way with green creativity. For me, the secret to Ecojam’s success is that anyone can get involved – you may check Ecojam to find things to do with the kids but end up volunteering at a festival, finding a free piano, or even landing your dream job.”