Join 250 Changemakers: Highlights from the Wiltshire Climate and Environment Summit

The recent event at County Hall in Trowbridge was a joint effort by Wiltshire Climate Alliance, Wiltshire Council, and Swindon Borough Council. It brought together a diverse group of people—business leaders, residents, community heads, and environmental experts—to brainstorm and promote ideas for a greener, net-zero future for Wiltshire.

Titled “Decarbonise, Adapt and Thrive,” the summit featured engaging presentations, interactive workshops, and lively panel discussions. The aim? Tackling the region’s hefty carbon emissions, which exceed 4,000 kilotonnes each year.

Kicking off the event, a group of young activists known as the “Early Earth Protectors” urged attendees to think about the future of our planet. Shortly after, Juliet Davenport, founder of Good Energy, posed a critical question: “Can we make green business good business?” Her challenge set the tone for a series of discussions focused on sustainability.

Businesses like Wincanton, Nationwide, and Apetito shared their innovative strategies for making environmentally friendly changes. Workshops explored areas like renewable energy, sustainable transport, and building efficiency.

On the second day, the spotlight shifted to “Community Engagement.” Key topics included local transport solutions and community energy initiatives. Keynote speakers Jen Gale and Rachel Berger inspired the crowd, emphasizing the importance of collective action for lasting change.

Bill Jarvis, co-founder of Wiltshire Climate Alliance, expressed his enthusiasm about the summit’s impact. He noted, “The energy and commitment displayed was truly inspiring. Our communities are actively addressing the climate crisis, and this summit is a crucial step toward a sustainable Wiltshire.”

Councillor Paul Sample JP echoed this sentiment, praising the passionate discussions that took place. He remarked, “The council can’t tackle this alone. It’s uplifting to see so many businesses and groups taking on this urgent challenge.”

The event fostered important connections among attendees, setting the stage for future collaboration. Follow-up meetings are already being planned, signaling a commitment to sustained efforts in the fight against climate change.

Interestingly, recent surveys show that public interest in climate action is growing. A 2022 report by the Climate Engagement Group found that 76% of people are willing to make lifestyle changes to combat climate change. This rising trend suggests that events like the summit are vital for harnessing collective enthusiasm toward real change.

In comparison, past climate summits often lacked the sense of urgency we see today. The growth of grassroots movements, such as those led by the “Early Earth Protectors,” reflects a shift in how younger generations are prioritizing the environment and advocating for immediate action.

Ultimately, the Wiltshire Climate and Environment Summit not only inspired hope but also solidified commitments to building a sustainable community for future generations.

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