About this Event
Welcome to the Coalition of Voices, a gathering focused on practical solutions, creative adaptation, and community-driven action to build a sustainable and equitable future. Part of a broader festival celebrating the Solarpunk ethos, this event brings together local businesses, charities, NGOs, community groups, academics, students, and policymakers to showcase how the challenges of climate change are actively being met.
Taking place on Friday 20 November at 1:00pm at Spark York, the event highlights real-world innovation across renewable energy, sustainable heritage, regenerative food systems, circular economies, and responsible technology. By featuring insights from local government, academia, major infrastructure projects, and grass-roots leaders, we aim to inspire actionable change through positive visioning rather than eco-anxiety.
Designed as an open, inclusive, and constructive space, attendees will have the opportunity to share their own projects, meet potential collaborators, and help build strong cross-sector networks. Spaces are strictly limited, so please register early to secure your place.
Untitled agenda
James Auret
Info: James will welcome attendees and give an introduction to the Solarpunk ethos
FutureSource
Info: Paul Bushnell and Matt Thompson will speak about the University of York's journey to unlock the potential of geothermal energy.
Gamal Abdelmonem
Info: Speaking on eco-friendly urban communities, heritage works, and obstacles to adaptation.
Alex McCallion
Info: Speaking on York Minster's 2022 Neighbourhood Plan, and how to engineer clever sustainability in a heritage context.
Lucy Allis
Info: Presenting on the carbon reduction and environmental policies and projects of the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, as well as the ways in which local people can become involved.
Sam Leach
Info: Speaking on Community Interest Companies, Spark CIC, and building bridges between business and community.
Closing Ceremony
Info: Includes a thank you to attendees and giving them the opportunity to network. Student artwork to be displayed.
Event venue & nearby stays
SPARK York, 17-21 Piccadilly, York, United Kingdom
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