Festival of Sustainable Business

The Future Economy Network is hosting a Festival of Sustainable Business in Bristol next Tuesday to inspire and support businesses to achieve carbon neutrality. 

Bristol was one the first UK cities to declare a climate emergency and last year pledged to cut its carbon emissions to net zero by 2030. Achieving such an ambitious target requires citywide collaboration and the Festival will bring together representatives from the public, private and voluntary sectors.

Hosted at We The Curious, the exhibition space will feature over 60 organisations covering a diverse range of topics from marine conservation and tree planting, through to sustainable finance and renewable energy.

On the Lightning Talk stage, speakers will each have 10 minutes to pitch their ideas. We’re looking forward to hearing from Grow Bristol and LettUs Grow, two innovative businesses that are trailblazing vertical farming and hydroponics. 

In addition to the talks, there are nine seminars to choose from, with topics ranging from circular economy and sustainable construction to smart cities and the decarbonisation of heat. Use our special GH19 discount code when booking to get a 50% discount on all seminar tickets.

Director of the Future Economy Network and festival organiser, Katherine Piper, said: 

“The Future Economy Network recently declared a climate emergency, as have many others in the city. But while it’s an admirable first step, a lot of businesses and organisations are struggling to know what to do next. The Festival will showcase sustainable technologies and services and offer practical support and guidance for businesses large and small.”

The event, which takes place at venues across the city on 17 September, will culminate in a gala dinner at The Bristol Hotel featuring three keynote speakers: Natalie Fee, founder of City to Sea, Rt Hon Sir Edward Davey MP, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats, and Bristol’s Mayor Marvin Rees.

Founder of City to Sea, Natalie Fee, added: 

“Bristol is known for being a pioneer of the green movement, so it feels very fitting that the city should be hosting the first Festival of Sustainable Business. I’m excited about being able to network with other changemakers and share ideas to support businesses that want to help reverse the current ecological crisis and co-create a better future.”

To find out more about the Festival of Sustainable Business and register, visit the event website.