Climate conference planned for Adur and Worthing

Community groups are urging residents and businesses to play an active role in helping to transform Adur and Worthing’s approach to the climate emergency.

ZERO 2030 is a community-led climate conference taking place on March 4 in Worthing’s Assembly Hall.

Organised by Worthing Climate Action Network and Transition Town Worthing with support from Adur & Worthing Councils, the aim is to generate ideas, projects and partnerships which will help the area tackle climate crisis.

Hundreds of people are expected to attend and discuss ways to lower carbon use, improve green spaces, reduce waste and improve access to sustainable transport and energy.

Interest is expected to be high - with residents and businesses encouraged to sign up online at Eventbrite to ensure they can attend the day-long event.

Michelle Furtado, of Worthing Climate Action Network, said: “The climate emergency is something that will affect everyone across Adur and Worthing. It as only by working together as a community that we can create a cleaner, greener, more resilient and connected Adur and Worthing.

“That’s why we are encouraging individuals, businesses, organisations and community to come along to this community-led event and contribute positive practical ideas so that our areas can continue to prosper in years to come.”

The event will feature a range of inspirational speakers and stalls featuring projects and activities going on locally to transform Adur and Worthing.

There will also be a chance to contribute ideas, sign up to campaigns and share pledges for action.

Among those speaking at the event will be Isabella Tree from the Knepp Estate, who will talk about rewilding of open spaces and the wider benefits to the environment.

A number of interactive spaces are also planned to cover several key themes, such as transport, waste, energy and carbon reduction, water and economics and business.

Attendees can also input into the Councils’ shared SustainableAW framework which outlines commitments the local authorities have made to become carbon neutral by 2030. Delegates will be invited to make their own pledges and collaborate on local climate action.

The community organisations are fundraising for costs to hold the event. To donate please visit the ZERO 2030 Crowdfunding page.