Date: 19 September 2025 | 9:30am – 4pm
Location: Alton Towers Conference Centre
The Climate Expo and Sustainability Conference takes place in Staffordshire, and has a mixture of exhibitors, speakers, workshops, roundtables and networking.
Everything you need to know about climate innovation, resilience and solutions, all under one roof.
The Midlands Climate Expo and Sustainability Conference brings together exhibitors, expert speakers, hands-on workshops, networking and more — for professionals, businesses and public sector leaders.
Discover the latest in climate innovation, resilience and real-world solutions — all under one roof.
Arrive, grab a drink, and explore the exhibition space before the activities begin.
A brief welcome to open the day, introduce the themes of the Expo, and set the tone for collaboration and action.
How can sustainable procurement and tourism go hand in hand? This panel explores how destinations, suppliers and stakeholders are working together to embed sustainability throughout the tourism value chain.
Explore the emerging role of artificial intelligence in tackling climate change. From energy management to predictive modelling, what’s hype, what’s hope – and what’s happening now?
Enjoy a seasonal buffet lunch and continue conversations with fellow delegates and exhibitors.
Please note: lunches must be booked in advance and can be selected when you register for the event.
From carbon data to community stories, how do we know what’s working? This session looks at how we measure and communicate impact, and why it matters for funders, partners and the public.
Catch up on the progress of the Staffordshire & Stoke-On-Trent COP and witness further key signatories signing the COP Charter — a shared commitment to collaborative, place-based climate action.
A timely conversation on how devolved powers can accelerate climate solutions at a local level — featuring insights into political leadership, place-shaping, and policy innovation.
Mary Portas
What does it really mean to lead with purpose? This powerful conversation, with our keynote Mary Portas, explores the future of business, place and values.
Mary Portas
An energising call to action to close the day. What bold steps do we need to take next — as individuals, organisations and regions — to shape a fairer, greener future?
Unwind, connect and celebrate the day with a drink and a dose of climate comedy from the brilliant Stuart Goldsmith. This reception also marks the fundraising moment of the day, supporting our ongoing work to accelerate place-based climate action across the Midlands. Contributions—big or small—are welcome and appreciated.
Join Simon George and Sharon George from NovaSci for an engaging introduction to digital twins and their role in tackling sustainability challenges. This session combines a short presentation, interactive discussion, and a live VR demo to explore real-world applications in areas like energy, heat, and retrofit. Perfect for those new to the concept.
Tom Bedford
A practical, jargon-free introduction to the climate crisis — what’s happening, why it matters, and what we can do about it. This session covers the science, the impacts, and the everyday actions that individuals and organisations can take to drive change. Ideal for beginners or those wanting a refresher.
This session explores how businesses can tap into local networks, resources, and funding to accelerate their sustainability goals. This practical session will highlight real-world examples and signpost tailored support available across Staffordshire and the wider region. Location: Workshop Room 1
Tom Bedford
Delivered by The Globe Group, this session offers a practical introduction to building a sustainability plan tailored to your organisation. Learn how to identify priorities, set achievable goals, and take meaningful action — whether you're just starting out or ready to level up your impact. Location: Workshop Room 2
Led by Jason Howlet CEO of the Energy Storage Association and Board Member of Staffordshire Community Energy, Jason will explore how energy storage really works — from batteries to site-level solutions. This interactive session combines a quick-fire overview with an open ‘energy surgery’ Q&A, offering impartial advice and real-world insights. Location: Workshop Room 1
Clear, honest communication is essential in today’s climate-conscious world. Through this session you’ll explore how to shape a compelling sustainability narrative that reflects your values, progress, and ambitions—without falling into the trap of greenwashing. We’ll look at how to turn data and metrics into meaningful, human-centred stories that resonate with customers, clients, and stakeholders. Location: Workshop Room 2
We’re delighted to announce that Mary Portas will headline this year’s Midlands Climate Expo, taking
As the Climate Expo & Sustainability Conference continues to grow year on year, so too
We’re delighted to shine a spotlight on one of our long-standing exhibitors: Solar Star Power.
Professor of Sustainability, Keele University
A distinguished scholar, Zoe holds a BSc in Geography and Geology, plus a PhD in Glacial Groundwater Systems. Since joining as a Lecturer in Physical Geography at Keele since 2004, backed by prior roles as a Geologist/Hydrogeologist in Environmental Consultancy, Zoe has now leads as a Director of the Institute for Sustainable Futures. As an esteemed Professor in Sustainability, she pioneers the transformative landscape of 'Sustainability Science,' transcending disciplines to tackle challenges in the green sector. With an expansive portfolio spanning research, education, and outreach, Zoe's impactful contributions resonate profoundly in the realm of emerging sustainable solutions.
The Alton Towers Hotel is located on site and we have agreed a special B&B room rate of £140. If you would like to book accommodation, please download and complete the ACOMMODATION BOOKING FORM, then email to reservations@alton-towers.com
A member of the hotel team will call you to confirm the reservation and to take payment.
