Martin Gainsborough is Bishop of Kingston in the Diocese of Southwark. He has many years’ experience as an academic and theological educator, and is deeply committed to social, racial and environmental justice.

Martin’s academic career in South East Asian Politics led to him being made Professor of Development Politics at the University of Bristol, through which he has a deep understanding of the intersection of issues of development and climate change.

Alongside his academic career, Martin served as a parish priest, leading inspiring children’s work with inner-city young people. He was subsequently made Canon Theologian at Bristol Cathedral and then served as Chaplain to the Bishop of Bristol. He transformed the Diocese of Bristol’s response to the climate and ecological emergency.

Martin was responsible for tabling the General Synod amendment which saw the Church of England adopt a more ambitious net zero target. Now lead Bishop for the environment in the Diocese of Southwark, Martin has led six Lent climate pilgrimages across the Diocese and chairs the Eco-Diocese Working Group. He continues to dedicate himself to transforming the Church’s engagement with the ecological crisis through action, dialogue and education.

On his days off, Martin enjoys the restorative effects of gardening, growing fruit and vegetables in plots in Bristol and London.