Spotlight on Sustainable Heritage MSc graduate Ed Gritten

Ed first studied Cultural Studies BA at the University of Kent, where his interest in sustainable heritage was piqued while delving into a module exploring the politics of heritage and cultural memory.

When asked to describe what sustainable heritage is about, Ed relishes the opportunity to say that, for him, it’s about the future and what we want it to be.

“When people ask me what sustainable heritage is all about, I relish in the chance to tell them that, for me, it’s about the future and what we want it to be. Yes it’s about ‘old’ buildings, landscapes and cultures, but it’s about how the past shaped and shapes the present and future.Yes it’s about ‘old’ buildings, landscapes and cultures, but it’s about how the past shaped and shapes the present and future.

After a couple of years at a communications agency for the built environment, Ed knew he wanted to further develop technical skills and play his part contributing towards a more sustainable future.

He has recently started a new role as an Engagement Officer with The Quality of Life Foundation - an organisation committed to creating greater accountability and encouraging more sustainable models of development by making health and wellbeing central to the way we create and care for our homes and neighbourhoods.

Ed believes his studies in Sustainable Heritage MSc provided him with the necessary outlook to empower local voices and sustainable development in this exciting role.

“The MSc helped me to broaden my view about what sustainability is and how best a holistic approach can be implemented, whilst providing the technical skills and using systems thinking in various fields.

A memorable highlight of Ed's studies was having the opportunity to work with the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings at St Andrew’s chapel (Boxley, Kent):

“Their philosophy of repair not restoration is of continuing fascination to me.

We’d like to thank Ed for sharing his experience of studying Cultural Heritage MSc and congratulate him in his new role with The Quality of Life Foundation.