FOR DESIGN LEADERS
As an independent, I bring three important elements to every project
Senior-level work
I help climate projects get off the ground and also make existing client work more sustainable.
Connections & Networks
I tap into the Climate Designers community, vetted colleagues, and various design and climate groups I’m a part of.
10 years of climate experience
I’ve built a foundation of knowledge, approaches, and needed to address our climate emergency.
My Areas of Focus
BRAND & EXPERIENCE DESIGN
Crafting cohesive identity systems and user experiences that make sustainable choices feel obvious and desirable
COMMUNITY BUILDING & EDUCATION
Creating global networks of climate-focused creatives and developing curriculum that prepares the next generation of climate designers
CLIMATE DESIGN STRATEGY
Helping climate orgs translate complex climate solutions into compelling narratives that drive adoption, secure funding, and scale impact
CREATIVE FACILITATION
Leading design sprints and workshops that generate breakthrough ideas using methodologies like "Thinking Wrong" and systems thinking
COMMUNICATION & STORYTELLING
Shifting cultural narratives from climate anxiety to climate possibility through visual storytelling and Solarpunk visions
BEAM CIRCULAR
Maybe it’s possible to build an economy where nothing gets thrown away and everything gets transformed
What if California’s Central Valley leads this global transition from extraction towards regeneration?
Studio: Serotonin
Select Project
Supporting design studios with their client’s sustainability projects
Studios and agencies bring me on to help with their existing client work.
I also bring work to them, ensuring a win-win-win situation for everyone involved.
I’ve also advised design studio leaders to become better climate partners for their clients.
Skills & Talents
DESIGN & VISUAL
Design Systems
Brand Systems
Brand Development
Interaction Design
Experience Design
Website Design
Graphic Design
Wireframing
Prototyping
STRATEGY & PLANNING
Campaign Development
Messaging Strategy
Content Strategy
Strategic Thinking
User Research
User Testing
Business Model Design
Landscape Analysis
Social Media Marketing
Experiential Design
Event Production
PROCESS & METHODOLOGY
Thinking Wrong
Prototype Thinking
Systems Thinking
Design Thinking
Creative Facilitation
Human Centered Design
Life Centered Design
Kind Words From Design Founders
“Marc O’Brien has been instrumental in helping Serotonin Creative Consultancy amplify its focus on climate-forward initiatives. From the very beginning of our collaboration, Marc’s vision and expertise have guided us in taking our work from simply supporting purpose-driven clients to becoming a trusted creative partner for organizations at the forefront of climate innovation.
With his deep knowledge of the climate space and a knack for strategy, Marc has pushed Serotonin to align our creative efforts more meaningfully with the needs of our climate-focused clients. His ability to connect us to his extensive network, share invaluable resources, and introduce frameworks tailored to the climate economy has elevated the quality and impact of our work.
Marc’s collaborative spirit and dedication to addressing the climate crisis have not only expanded Serotonin’s capabilities but also solidified our commitment to supporting organizations driving real environmental change. Working with Marc has been a game-changer, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from and partner with someone so passionate and purpose-driven.”
Casey Hogue
Founder & Executive Director,
Serotonin Creative
Brandt Williams
Co-Founder, Thinknado
“Working with Marc has been transformative in addressing climate change communication challenges. His unique ability to facilitate difficult conversations with a demeanor that is both disarming and progressive has proven invaluable.
What sets Marc apart is not just his design expertise, but his thoughtful approach to facilitation strategy and collaboration. When you need someone to help stakeholders move past inertia and take meaningful action on climate initiatives, Marc's combination of strategic thinking and collaborative spirit makes him the ideal partner.”
Want to build something great together?
Let’s connect so we can talk details and opportunities.