The Arts Council of Northern Ireland in collaboration with Queen’s University Belfast (School of Arts, English & Languages) invites artists, cultural organisations, government departments, policy and community partners to join a day of discussion and collaboration on how the arts and cultural sector can respond to the challenges posed by climate change and what opportunities exist for shared action.

This event is framed by the Northern Ireland Climate Action Plan and wider statutory obligations under the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022, which requires all departments to deliver on carbon budgets, adaptation planning, and just transition commitments.

*If you would like to attend the event, please complete this short survey before making your booking.  Your answers will inform the discussion on the day.*

Please note that due to venue capacity and a wish to maximise engagement from the sector, tickets will be limited to two individuals from each organisation.

Event Aims:

1. To strengthen dialogue, understanding and collaboration between climate, arts and culture sectors, policymakers and practitioners.
2. To provide a platform to discuss current actions, policies and support needs as well as the potential for arts and culture as part of a regenerative future.
3. To develop a route map for establishing a stronger arts/culture/climate change/policy collaboration and potential shared actions across all sectors.

Why attend?

• Engage with peers across arts, culture, climate and policy sectors to consider how and where creativity is part of regeneration and climate action

• Understand the policy drivers shaping Northern Ireland’s response to climate change and hear about the role other Arts Councils are taking in relation to climate change and the environment

• Listen to perspectives from cultural practitioners and organisations that highlight not only the challenges of action but the ways arts and culture is bringing new thinking to climate action

• Take part in interactive workshops to discuss and prioritise sector-specific issues (e.g. touring, buildings, audience travel, ethical working) and work collaboratively on a route map of future shared actions and policy co-operations needed for addressing climate change by and with the arts and cultural sector

• Strengthen collaboration by connecting practitioners, arts and cultural organisations, climate and third sector organisations, policymakers and funders supporting a co-ordinated way forward.

What to expect

• Presentations and facilitated discussions on the intersection of culture, climate, and policy

• Breakout workshops to identify and prioritise sectoral challenges, opportunities and creative solutions

• Networking opportunities and a platform to look at and explore local approaches to tackling climate change.

How to get to the venue – Great Hall, Queen’s University, Belfast

All those attending are encouraged to use public transport links.

Botanic Train Station is a nine-minute walk from the venue.

Belfast Grand Central is a 15-20 minute walk or short bus ride from the venue.

Bus route 8 (Queen’s University stop) is the closest stop to the building entrance.

Bus Routes U1/2 and 7a/b (University Square stop) is on the far side of the campus, about four minutes’ walk.

Map of Beryl Bikes and E-bike stations 

There is no public car park on campus and parking in the area is very limited. QUB will attempt to accommodate all access requirements for parking if possible. Please ensure you include your access parking requirements when you register.

*If you would like to attend the event, please complete this short survey before making your booking. Your answers will inform the discussion on the day.*