UWE Bristol and Festival of Nature event discusses new Western Forest
The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) is bringing together environmental and community experts to discuss the bold ambitions to create one of England’s new national forests as part of the Festival of Nature.
‘How to create a forest’, part of the Bristol Distinguished Address Series (BDAS) curated by UWE Bristol, is free to attend and will take place at the Watershed on Wednesday 10 June, 18:00-21:00.
The event will explore the nation’s ambition for transforming landscapes with a focus on plans for the region’s Western Forest, a new national forest spanning Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Bristol, and Somerset.
The discussion will be chaired by Professor Darren Reynolds, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange at UWE Bristol, with an opening welcome from Savita Willmott, Director of the Festival of Nature.
Darren and Savita will be joined by an expert panel including John Everitt (CEO, The National Forest), Jamie Audsley (Director, Western Forest), Leah McNally (CEO, Avon Wildlife Trust) and Chiara Lodi (Research Manager, Black Southwest Network). Speakers will share insights from research on how large-scale forest creation can be delivered in ways that are environmentally effective, socially inclusive and community led.
The free BDAS events from UWE Bristol provide an opportunity to hear unique perspectives and insights from change makers, activists, entrepreneurs, and people who have achieved amazing things in Bristol and beyond.
The Festival of Nature is the UK’s largest free celebration of the natural world. Held annually in the West of England, the week-long event features family days, wildlife walks, talks, and community activities designed to help people learn about and protect the environment.
This is a hybrid event taking place online and in person. Attendance is free, however booking is required here.
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