Ed Miliband MP, shadow secretary of state for energy security and net zero, called the Climate Conference at Leeds Trinity University on September 28. 2023, a resounding success whilst warning of the immense and immediate challenges of protecting our environment.
The climate change and understanding and navigating Net Zero conference organised by Katie White, local campaigner who received an OBE for her services in tackling climate change, took the form of a panel discussion with Katie, Ed Miliband and Professor Leigh Hoath and chaired by Professor Francesca Gains and then questions from guests in the packed-out lecture theatre at the university were put to the panel.
Ed Miliband MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero said:
“I was delighted to speak at Leeds Climate Conference to talk about Labour’s plan to make Britain a clean energy superpower, which will cut bills, give us energy security, create a million jobs and help tackle the climate crisis.
“Labour’s plans will provide huge new opportunities for communities across the country, from insulating homes to creating the community energy projects we need to reach net zero.
“Katie White has relentlessly campaigned to tackle climate change throughout her adult life and I was delighted to accept her invitation to come to her home city of Leeds and join her along with Professor Hoath and Professor Gains for this vital conference.
“I’d like to thank Leeds Trinity University for all of their hard work in hosting this conference which was a resounding success. I would also thank all who came along for their insightful questions and determination to work towards us achieving Net Zero together.”
Katie White OBE commented:
“Growing up in Leeds, I know our proud history as a powerhouse of the British economy. But today, we’re being held back by a tired government unable to provide a vision or stick to any promises. There is an exciting new generation of industries and jobs in the low-carbon future waiting to be born. Jobs that use our skills as builders, creatives, and hard workers. We know what we need to do; we just need the courage to commit and take action. The time for change is now.”
Professor Francesca Gains Chair of the Community and Environment Committee of Horsforth Town Council said:
As the chair of the community and environment committee of Horsforth town council, I have come to know the dedicated and committed climate change campaigners in Horsforth and Leeds.
"It was great to see so many attend, along with students from Trinity, at the urgent and vital climate conversation to share our concerns about the challenges ahead, along with optimism for the future that green energy could provide.
Professor Leigh Hoath, Lecturer at Leeds Trinity University said:
“As one of the largest providers of initial teacher education Leeds Trinity University is proud to support their students in developing knowledge and understanding around embedding climate change education into the curriculum and preparing our teachers of the future.
“Our partnership with Climate Adapted Pathways for Education (CAPE), which drives climate change education leadership in England, indicates our ongoing commitment to the agenda.”
Jamie Hanley, Chair of the Board at Leeds Trinity University, said:
"Leeds Trinity University is such a fantastic institution, and it was wonderful to see so many alumni at the event. One guest at this vital climate conference attended the university 40 years ago. It is a place that remains in the hearts of all who have studied here.
"Katie White OBE, ED Miliband MP and Professor Leigh Hoath were all incredibly knowledgeable and passionate speakers, and Professor Francesca Gains chaired the panel expertly. I was incredibly proud to see them at Leeds Trinity University."
