Building a sustainable future by reducing the carbon footprint of the construction industry

Inspired by an encouraging high school teacher, Dr Ashley Lindsay's academic journey began as an undergraduate chemistry student at the University of Auckland. After completing a doctorate and working as a Research Fellow, she is now employed as an Innovation Catalyst for Fletcher Building.

The main focus of her role is reducing the impact of the building process on the environment by evaluating new technologies and research related to the building sector.

“The building industry significantly contributes to carbon emissions and has a massive and unsustainable environmental footprint. At Fletcher Building, there is a strong desire to change how we do things to reduce our environmental impact” she said.

What academic pathway led you to your current role?

“I studied a Bachelor of Science(BSc) with a Specialisation in Medicinal Chemistry, followed by a PhD in Organic Chemistry. After completing my PhD, I worked as a Research Fellow at the University in the Green Chemistry Programme.”

What did you like most about the programme?

“I enjoyed the freedom to experiment in the lab and learn new techniques. I also valued the support from my supervisor, who encouraged creative problem solving and allowed the research to take its course even when we didn't get the results we anticipated or hoped for – as is the nature of research.”

How has your education experience at the University of Auckland influenced your work on climate change?

“Chemistry is traditionally a high-waste, high-emitting, high-environmental impact industry. When I transitioned to being a Research Fellow in the Green Chemistry programme, it required me to analyse the way I had approached doing chemistry in the past and rethink – find green solutions to classically environmentally detrimental processes. These are the same skills I apply to my current position.”

What was your research/thesis topic?

“My PhD research was in the total synthesis of marine-derived natural products possessing a unique chemical structure – Iheyamines A and B, found in the ascidian Polycitorella Sp. As a Research Fellow, I worked in the green chemistry space. I sought sustainable ways to synthesise organic molecules that avoided traditionally toxic and environmentally damaging reagents. This involved looking at the valorisation of lignin, the electrochemical synthesis of indole derivatives, and investigating the use of mechanochemistry in organic synthesis.”

Can you describe a work project or initiative you are proud of?

“I am particularly proud of the relationships with the universities we have developed. Relationships between researchers and industry are vital for the New Zealand economy going forward, particularly with the challenges we, as a country, face around climate change.”

Where do you see your career taking you?

“Honestly, I don't know where my career will go, but I have an open mind! My current role was not something I envisioned when I did my Bachelors or PhD, so I am open to wherever this role might take me.”

What advice would you give to someone considering studies related to climate change?

“Keep an open mind. There are industries and positions you can apply your skills to that you never dreamed of when you began your studies. So, keep your mind open to new avenues and the changing nature of this field. I never imagined that my studies in Medicinal chemistry as an undergraduate would lead me to where I am today.”

Tell us something we can't learn from Googling you!

“I have co-written a Young Adult Fiction novel called When the Rain Falls under the pen name Sasha A. Linderson.”