Climate action network launched for Liverpool

LJMU is leading a new ‘partnership for nature’ to support local organisations and society meet the challenges of climate and biodiversity.

Delegates from Grow-Wellbeing, Community by Nature, Centre 56 and others are coming together under the umbrella of the university's Liverpool Research Institute for Climate and Sustainability to collaborate and make the Liverpool City Region a leader in sustainable living and working.

The launch comes as we mark both UN World Environment Day and Liverpool Climate Impact Week.

Researcher Ange Garden, co-lead of the LJMU Nature-Based Solutions Network, and expert in forest schools and green social prescribing, said: “These dates on the calendar are important because they remind us that the environmental challenges we face, from biodiversity loss to the climate crisis, are deeply interwoven. They demand connected, collaborative, and nature-based responses.

“This collaboration is about recognising and connecting the brilliant work already happening across our region within the university, local organisations, charities, health services, social enterprises, and communities and building space for new ideas, shared learning, and future partnerships”

LJMU recently launched the Liverpool Research Institute for Climate and Sustainability and in May presented its Biodiversity Delivery Plan with five-year targets for habitat quality, green space provision and climate resilience. The network also builds on significant work already happening at LJMU from our Natural Capital Hub, to the Biodiversity and Conservation Group.

Speakers at the launch event included:

• Jim Loftus of Grow-Wellbeing - about Forest School and nature-based wellbeing.
• Kate Jameson and Dave Tinsley from Community by Nature about their community-led environmental education work.
• Peter Lloyd and Alex Rigby from Centre 56 on designing biodiversity-rich sensory gardens.
• Carl Dutton from CAMHS at Alder Hey on how mental health services are connecting young people with nature.
• David Connor and Stephen Sykes from Liverpool 2030hub talked about sustainable entrepreneurship, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

David Connor, whose organisation set in motion Liverpool Climate Impact Week (June 2 – 6) said: “Answers to the challenges we face are not rocket science, it’s just that not enough people know about them. This network is very welcome because we have to connect the ideas in this room to all the other rooms and groups across Liverpool City Region.”

We hope that today is the beginning of an ongoing conversation and collaboration. If you'd like to stay connected, please sign up via our webpages.

Main image: Jim Loftus, David Connor, Peter Lloyd, Carl Dutton, Ange Garden, Tally Anderson, Alex Rigby, Dr Colm Bowe, Dave Tinsley and Kate Jameson.

Top tips for local businesses and organisations to support biodiversity and climate resilience

• Go Native: Plant native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers to support local wildlife and pollinators.
• Reduce Pesticides: Cut down on chemical use; opt for natural pest control to protect soil and insects.
• Create Green Spaces: Turn unused areas into mini-meadows or community gardens for habitat and wellbeing.
• Water Wisely: Collect rainwater and use efficient irrigation to conserve water and support plants during dry spells.
• Say No to Single-Use Plastics: Switch to sustainable packaging and reduce waste that harms ecosystems.
• Support Local Wildlife: Provide bird boxes, insect hotels, and hedgehog highways to boost biodiversity.
• Energy Efficiency: Switch to renewable energy and improve building insulation to cut carbon emissions.
• Engage Your Team: Encourage staff participation in green initiatives.
• Educate & Advocate: Use your platform to raise awareness about climate and biodiversity issues in your community.
• Partner Locally: Collaborate with local environmental groups and universities like LJMU for advice and projects.