We’re in it together

Tackling climate change is a challenge for everyone in Hertfordshire.

and CEO of Planet Mark, at this established event at Rothamsted Enterprises.

Adrian Shah-Cundy, VolkerWessels UK

This was just one of the key messages arising from the Chamber’s Zero Carbon Conference.

The event brought together keynote speakers, journalist and broadcaster Lucy Siegle, and Steve Malkin, Founder

In his opening keynote speech, Steve took the time to explain the various jargon that is used when talking about emissions and climate change challenges, including talking about the difference between the three scopes of emissions and discussing the real meanings of net zero versus carbon neutral. This provided a good base for what followed, with further presentations and breakout sessions looking at the different areas.

Lynne Ceeney, Director of Environmental Sustainability at Hertfordshire County Council, was among the guest speakers.

She said “Preparedness is key” as she encouraged organisations not to go it alone, but to learn from larger companies who have already made progress on their journey to net zero.

Her session focused on what is already happening within the county and how climate change is affecting everyone.

Julian Carter, Chamber CEO, said: “The topics around greenhouse gases, emissions, the changes in our weather are all huge and finding the answers isn’t going to happen in a day.

“But I was proud to see our guest speakers and so many Chamber members come forward to offer their advice on how we can tackle the challenges affecting our planet.

“It is unsurprising that some organisations are further down the line than others, but what shone through on the day was everyone’s willingness to support each other.

“As Lynne said, no-one is going through this alone and there are many specialists around to provide guidance and I am delighted that we have so many here in Hertfordshire.

“I hope everyone who attended the event left with some key actions for their own businesses and that by working together we can make the county a leader in tackling the climate-change challenges.”

The event was chaired by Adrian Shah-Cundy, Corporate Responsibility Director for VolkerWessels UK and attracted more than 150 delegates.

The day was sponsored by Hatfield Park, RO Group Trading Limited and Hertfordshire County Council.