Cross pollination

I first read about the Pollination Group’s aims on the Guardian website, and intrigued, followed a trail to the recent Q&A panel on which founding partner Martijn Wilder appeared. He made the apt point on the debate, “that what you hear in Australia, is very different to the rest of the world”. And that on action “the rest of the world is moving very fast.” With a Dutch partner, I’ve been lucky to spend time in the Netherlands where I’ve seen this first hand.

The approach in the Netherlands toward setting a goal, and a stretch goal, and to even still aim beyond it makes me feel sad about Australia, how defeatist we can be. In their drive to reach and exceed EU targets, the Dutch are innovating and educating and shoring up their prospects in a new, (near) future intelligent economy. The Dutch appear to have a plan for everything.

I’ve long believed that to catalyse impact in Australia we need to make the alternative to the status quo more attractive, as only then can we subvert politics and a lethargic political leadership. People, businesses must forge ahead, fast. But innovative technological and environmental transitions must be matched with detailed plans for social transition that address human resources and human fealty. Pollination’s success will no doubt hinge on the appetite in the market and the imperative to meet popular, legislated or ethical expectations. I hope they are flooded with clients!