Local Climate Action Conference encourages everyone to do their bit to tackle climate change

Creating a cleaner district for South Cambridgeshire residents is on the agenda at a climate conference in Cambourne celebrating net zero action locally.

 The District Council is holding its second Local Climate Action Conference in November to tie in with the global COP29 event – 12 days of worldwide talks to determine ambition and responsibilities in addressing climate issues.

The local event is being held on Tuesday 19 November from 11-3 at The Hub in High Street, Cambourne. Refreshments and a plant-based lunch will be provided. Please complete this form to RSVP for the event, by Tuesday 5 November.

It will be followed by a pop-up inspiration evening at the same venue, called the Local Climate Action Fair, running from 5.30-8pm. Various community groups and organisations will be available to chat and share ideas about climate action. All welcome.

Cllr Brian Milnes, Lead Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “We are proud of our ongoing work in tackling the climate and ecological emergencies so that our district becomes as environmentally friendly as possible. The Climate Action Fair is a powerful reminder to everyone that change starts right here, in our community. By coming together, we are not only showcasing innovative solutions but also demonstrating our shared commitment to a sustainable future. Every step we take, big or small, brings us closer to a healthier planet for generations to come.”

The Local Climate Action Conference and evening fair are open to everyone. Speakers will include Cambridgeshire County Council, Joolz Thompson of Community Climate Action UK, the Centre for Climate Engagement, Cambridge Retrofit Hub and Elisabeth Goodman Spain of Sustainable Shepreth. 

The 2024 event has been arranged following the success of last year’s inaugural Local Climate Action Conference attended by residents, councillors and climate action groups, who shared their ideas and vision for the future of a net zero district. Attendees were impressed at the local knowledge about climate change and ideas on what we can all do to make a difference.

One of the District Council’s core visions is to help the district become net zero by 2050. As part of this, it set up a Zero Carbon Communities grant scheme in 2019 and has given more than half a million pounds to 82 projects locally, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and engaging communities on climate change such as tree planting, energy efficient heating and lighting and tackling food waste.

• Attendees are encouraged to consider sustainable travel options. There is cycle storage onsite and for those traveling by bus there are nearby stops on X3/4/18 bus routes.