Climate change is a pressing issue, and community conversations about it are crucial. One such event is happening on October 21 at the Hawkhill Community Centre, from 10 AM to 12:30 PM. It’s part of the Climate FORTH project, aimed at engaging local heritage groups across the Inner Forth region.
Ella Duffield, the community and youth officer for Climate FORTH, explains that these sessions create a welcoming space for individuals and groups. “Climate conversations allow people to gather and discuss what climate resilience looks like for their heritage,” she says. Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, these sessions are free for attendees.
The sessions are intended for anyone managing or interested in managing a natural or built heritage site, such as parks or community gardens. Participants will connect with others, share insights, and explore how climate and heritage intersect. They will also identify local priorities and discuss future actions.
This initiative is just one of many efforts by Climate FORTH to bolster resilience against climate change. The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports these activities, showing a commitment to protecting our environmental legacy.
In addition to the conversations, a series of ‘Walks and Talks’ will take place in 2026 at various heritage sites, including the Black Devon Wetlands near Alloa. “These events will help attendees learn about climate management and provide real-world ideas to implement in their communities,” says Brian Rae, operations manager for Keep Scotland Beautiful, a collaborating charity.
Climate anxiety affects many, with three out of four people in Scotland concerned about climate change, according to recent surveys. Workshops like these aim to inspire action within communities, businesses, and schools, making a meaningful difference. By sharing local knowledge and exploring solutions together, individuals can better understand the impacts of climate change on their heritage and heritage assets.
This grassroots approach can foster stronger community ties. As discussions grow online and offline, we see a trend toward local action, motivated by collective concern. Engaging with climate issues now could lead to innovative solutions that protect our communities for the future.
