Solitaire Townsend's green route to riches

Solitaire Townsend started her 'green' public relations agency from a dingy office in Brixton. Now her firm, Futerra, boasts a turnover of more than £2m.

She's known as the Jimmy Choo environmentalist the eco warrior who swapped spiky hair and denims for a red pair of patent heels, and a grey pin-striped Calvin Klein suit. Solitaire Townsend, 34, would be the first to admit that her change of image has been a vital part of her success. "If you want to change the world, you have to be prepared to cut your hair and wear a suit," says the founder of Futerra, a public relations agency that focuses on sustainable development. "The shoes maketh the woman."

Born on a "nasty" Bedfordshire council estate, Townsend was first arrested at the age of 15 for protesting outside a nuclear waste dump close to her home.

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Jody Clarke

Jody studied at the University of Limerick and was a senior writer for MoneyWeek. Jody is experienced in interviewing, for example digging into the lives of an ex-M15 agent and quirky business owners who have made millions. Jody’s other areas of expertise include advice on funds, stocks and house prices.