The idea for the Green Centre evolved from The Green Workshop, a mobile teaching unit offering environmental education throughout Sussex. The workshop appeared on the streets of Brighton and Hove, at farmers' markets, fairs, festivals, schools and businesses. Through engagement with the local community, several themes emerged;

• a desire to gain a greater understanding of global warming and climate change
• a willingness to participate in activities which tackle global warming and climate change
• a need for greater awareness of existing reduce/reuse/recycle opportunities