Cornwall Climate Conference Success

An atmosphere of hope, collaboration, and action filled the air at Cornwall Council’s Schools Climate Conference, where educators, sustainability leaders, and environmental organisations came together to empower schools to lead the way in tackling the climate crisis.

Organised by the Education Business Partnership, in partnership with Carbon Neutral Cornwall, Eco-Schools and Let’s Go Zero, the event brought together a dynamic mix of voices and ideas. The day featured powerful sessions from Surfers Against Sewage, Eden Project, Keep Britain Tidy Eco-Schools, Jen Gale (Let’s Go Zero), and Jason Wood (Eco Rangers).

The conference also welcomed a wide range of partners during the networking lunch, including Chefs in Schools, National Education Nature Park, Cornwall Climate Care, Carbon Neutral Cornwall, RJ Working, Sustainable Food Cornwall, and author Ellie Jackson.

Attendees praised the event for its practical impact. One teacher described the day as “excellent,” highlighting the Climate Action Plan writing and guest speakers as the most useful parts.

“Hearing from different providers and case studies was incredibly valuable." - teacher

The event also showcased real-world examples of climate leadership from An Daras Multi-Academy Trust and Crofty Education Trust, whose case studies demonstrated how schools are already making a difference.

One teacher captured the spirit of the day:

“Being part of like-minded people – creating a wave which is no longer a ripple – ensures we are working for the best interests of our young people.” - teacher

Feedback from the event will help shape future support for schools. Many attendees expressed interest in Cornwall Council’s upcoming Green Schools programme, and several called for more strategic guidance, expert site visits, and opportunities to collaborate in smaller clusters.

And of course, no Cornish event would be complete without a nod to local flavour – The Pasty Box kept everyone fuelled with delicious, sustainably sourced pasties.

As one teacher put it:

“It was great to feel the enthusiasm in the room for practical action, and see how much has already been done.” - teacher

This conference proved that when schools, trusts, and partners come together, real climate action is not only possible – it’s already happening.