As Head of Sustainability at FOR Cardiff, Nia Wood-Gaiger brings both passion and a deep understanding of the city’s environmental and social needs. From green infrastructure and biodiversity to low-carbon transport and social responsibility, her work touches every part of Cardiff’s journey toward a more sustainable future.
“I look at everything from environmental improvements like planters and trees, to longer-term goals like renewable energy and active travel,” she says. Her approach blends the big picture with practical steps, regardless of whether she is helping local businesses adopt greener practices or exploring solar energy opportunities for the city centre.
A key focus for Nia is improving how people move through the city. “Encouraging active travel is essential,” she explains. That includes working with businesses to promote initiatives like Cycle to Work schemes, securing safe bike storage, and lobbying for infrastructure that supports cycling and walking.
Cycle to Work Day, taking place on 7th August 2025, is a global initiative promoting sustainable commuting, and a standout event in Nia’s calendar. “It’s a great chance to highlight the benefits of cycling—not just for the environment, but for health and wellbeing too,” says Nia.
On the day, FOR Cardiff will host bike marking by South Wales Police, free maintenance checks, and highlights from local partners like Pedal Power and electric bike retailers. It’s a community-led celebration that makes cycling more visible and accessible to everyone.
Nia’s journey into sustainability wasn’t straightforward. Initially studying media production with dreams of becoming a filmmaker, she found her way into environmental work through storytelling, highlighting issues like waste management and conservation. Growing up on a farm in West Wales shaped her respect for nature and resource use. “It might not seem obvious, but living close to the land really influenced how I see sustainability,” she reflects.
In her day-to-day role, she also champions workplace initiatives, such as office sustainability. “Even small changes, like the fruit we order or how people get to work can make a big difference when they’re thoughtful,” she says.
As Nia points out, employers, councils, and local communities need to work together. “No one can tackle climate or sustainability issues alone,” she stresses. “But when businesses, public services, and the public work together, we can create real, lasting change.”
Looking ahead to Cycle to Work Day on August 7th, Nia hopes the event will not only increase bike journeys but spark broader conversations about how we move through and shape our cities. “It’s about building a Cardiff where people want to live, work, and visit—a city that works with nature, not against it.”
Event details
Date: 7th August
Location: Central Square
Time: 11am until 2pm
To get involved with Cycle to Work Day, businesses and individuals can contact Nia at: Nia@forcardiff.com
Nia Wood-Gaiger, Head of Sustainability at For Cardiff