In 2023 more than 100 organisations and 250 individuals came together for the UK's first community-led COP (see below). In a sweltering Dorchester Corn Exchange delegates heard from expert speakers, activists and local groups, participated in a Citizens Assembly and Workshops, shared learning and made personal pledges to act on the climate and associated crises.

Since the event we have seen more climate records tumble, witnessed more global instability and, despite some encouraging initiatives, little of the required urgency from our local leaders. Nationally many areas are going backwards. 

As the crises deepen it's even clearer that communities will need to build local resilience and take action themselves. 

In November 2024, at Bournemouth University more than 300 people came together to consider what action could be taken from the ground up.  

The full programme, available here, enabled attendees to participate in: 

8 WORKSHOPS

3 INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES

7 BUSINESS RELATED SESSIONS 

5 SPECIALIST PRESENTATIONS

1 SPEAKERS CORNER 

1 COMMUNITY EXHIBITION

100’S OF OPPORTUNITIES TO NETWORK 

While this event does not have the decision-making power of the global events, speakers, workshop facilitators and attendees explored where and how Dorset's citizens can take action, including how we can demand action from our leaders on the climate and ecological emergency. 

Anyone, attendees or not, can commit to action by signing the Declaration and submitting a Pledge.

You can keep up to date with changes to the website by following our Facebook page (see below) and ensure you are signed up for news from at least one of the organisers Dorset CAN, Sustainable Dorset or Zero Carbon Dorset, East Dorset Friends of the Earth and This Living Place

On Saturday 9th September 2023, more than 250 people, including representatives from more than 100 Dorset based organisations, came together at the UK's first ever community-led Conference of the Parties (COP). While this event does not have the decision-making power of the global events, speakers, workshop facilitators and attendees explored where and how Dorset's citizens can take action, including how we can demand action from our leaders on the climate and ecological emergency. You can see some of the feedback received below.

"There were loads of powerful, inspiring addresses, some extremely moving, some hard to hear, some very positive. There was an excellent mix of environmental campaigners from all spheres, from UN policy advisors to grass roots street protesters - every single person is of value to the most important issue of climate and biodiversity breakdown…"

"We are deeply grateful for all the amazing speakers, the brilliant ongoing projects and for the collaborative team who have worked so hard for a year or so to put this altogether so wonderfully."

"Yesterday's event was fabulous. Meticulously organised, smoothly and professionally run, jam-packed with interesting speakers and discussions. An absolute 11/10, well done"