From 15 to 17 August, CAT members gathered at CAT for a special weekend of practical workshops, lectures and tours. We made new connections and strengthened our ability to tackle the climate and nature crisis together.

The annual CAT conference welcomes a vibrant mix of people who share a passion for the environment and taking practical action. It’s a unique space for learning, creativity and inspiration. This year’s event was a reminder of what’s possible when we come together.

“There is good reason to be hopeful! Great work is going on and wonderful people are doing it.”

“I’ve learnt so much from CAT and everyone attending.”

“As our crises become more pressing, everything that touched on how we continue to respond was valuable, not least how we think about hope and optimism.”

“Many useful, practical skills and insights, such as woodland management, sustainable building and biodiversity, but more overarching than this – a ‘relearning’ of the need to focus on the tangible, small-scale reality of what’s in front of me.”

Conference highlights

Inspiring words from keynote speaker, Jonathon Porritt

One of the most highly anticipated sessions of the conference was the keynote talk delivered by eminent author and environmentalist, Sir Jonathon Porritt. Jonathon is a long-time friend, member and supporter of CAT. It was a privilege to have him share stories and reflections from his compelling new book Love Anger & Betrayal, co-authored by 26 young activists and an urgent call for intergenerational climate justice. The energy in this session was electric and the conversation was honest and urgent, as spoke about what he had learned talking to young climate leaders.

Author and academic Jean Boulton captivated her audience

We were delighted to welcome Jean Boulton, a regular contributor at CAT and a leading expert in complexity science. Jean took members on a deep dive into the world of complexity theory and her latest book The Dao of Complexity. Her session asked the audience to reflect on how we can create meaningful and sustainable change in complex times. The talk helped us to understand how living systems and social systems emerge, stabilise and change, highlighting the importance of connections, relationships and inclusivity for resilience.

“I found this truly inspirational. Jean is an excellent speaker and carried me along with her passion. A fascinating angle.”

“A whirlwind session on this subject which was fascinating and delivered by a really passionate speaker. Lots to absorb and think about, and much reading to follow.”

“’Very good’ is massively understating how amazingly brilliant this session was. This is the framing I’ve been needing to make sense of my own PhD research findings (and life). I haven’t stopped talking about it since.”

Members’ show and tell sessions

The members’ show and tell sessions are a fantastic opportunity for CAT members to share their own projects and passions with one another. As always, we were treated to an eclectic mix of interesting topics, such as starting a local community energy group, conducting scientific studies on the carbon sequestration of wildflower meadows, and using creative writing to engage with the climate and nature crisis. Ben Wilding, CAT graduate and co-founder of Sun Bear Biofuture, spoke about his business that uses cutting-edge science to bioengineer fats and oils to reduce the industrial impact on the environment. Thank you to the members who volunteered to deliver a session.

Practical workshops

Attendees also had the chance to explore CAT’s outdoor learning environment and enjoy the trails, woodlands and growing spaces. Our members particularly enjoyed surveying the wildlife and exploring the mosaic of gardens, getting hands on with natural clay, and touring Coed Gwern, CAT’s sustainably managed woodland. Being immersed in the beautiful natural surroundings, we were reminded why we do the work we do.

“What a wonderful way to experience a walk through the woods.”

“Dieter is so knowledgeable and brought heart and soul into his teaching.”

“Rob has such depth of knowledge, patience and care in his work and presentation/ guiding. Wonderful insights and thought provoking.”

Thank you to everyone who attended, including our members, students, trustees and volunteers. It’s you who creates the sense of community, shared purpose and optimism that makes the CAT conference a highlight of the year. It was especially rewarding to meet so many new members this year, alongside long-standing members whose dedication spans years and even decades.

We hope to see you all again next year!