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Category: Events

Next Generation Earth: Empowering Young Voices
CAT’s Next Generation Earth projects kicks off with engagement in schools and an event at CAT exploring STEM careers and climate solutions.

At the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), we believe that a better world is not only possible but is already being built by the next generation. That’s why we’re proud to be part of Next Generation Earth, a UK-wide youth-led initiative supported by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and coordinated by the Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC).

This programme is designed to break down barriers to environmental science and empower underrepresented learners to shape a more sustainable future. CAT is one of nine science and discovery centres selected to deliver youth-led initiatives that reflect the unique characteristics of their regions.

What is Next Generation Earth?

Next Generation Earth is a research-based programme exploring why fewer young people are choosing to study or work in environmental science and what can be done to change that. Rather than simply asking why, the project engages young people through the lens of climate change, a topic that resonates deeply with their concerns and aspirations.

The focus is on underrepresented learners aged 12–14, including those from areas of multiple deprivation. Working with two Welsh schools and our community partner Reaching Wider, we’re creating a space where these young people can explore their interests, have their voices heard, and co-create a programme that reflects their needs and ambitions.

What’s happened so far?

The delivery phase has already begun with CAT’s Education Team visiting the schools involved to meet students and start conversations. We asked them:
- What do you know about climate change?
- How do you think it affects you locally?
- What changes would you like to see?
The responses were fascinating. Many students still see climate change as something distant such as floods in other countries or melting icebergs rather than something impacting their own communities. Through discussion, we helped them recognise local effects as well and to think about what could be done differently.

We also explored environmental science careers and discovered that most students had little idea of what roles exist or how these connect to the changes they want to see in the world. They haven’t yet made the link between their future careers and creating positive environmental change. As part of the initial evaluation, students took part in a postcard exercise, sharing their thoughts and pledges. Common themes included air quality and litter, highlighting the importance of local action.

What’s next?

On 12 January, the students will visit CAT for a hands-on day of practical activities and future visioning. In February, they’ll head to Bangor University’s Ocean Studies department to meet a professor and explore higher education pathways. These experiences aim to show that environmental science is not only relevant but full of exciting opportunities.

We’ll also involve CAT postgraduate students and Bangor University students to provide relatable role models and insights into green careers.

Why this matters

Climate anxiety is rising among young people, especially in early adolescence, a formative time when they begin to shape their life interests and career aspirations. Next Generation Earth aims to flip that narrative, giving young people the tools, confidence, and support to take action in their own communities.

By connecting environmental science with real-world relevance and personal empowerment, CAT hopes to inspire participants to take an active role in delivering the vision of Wales embodied in the Future Generations Act.

Looking ahead

The programme will culminate in a future community engagement event where young people will share their ideas and pledges with families, educators, and local stakeholders. This will lay the groundwork for a longer-term youth panel, enabling participants to continue their involvement and influence future programming at CAT.

At its heart, this project is about learner voice amplifying perspectives that are too often unheard and helping young people build the skills and confidence to shape their own futures.

Keep an eye on the CAT website or social media channels for updates and stories from the Next Generation Earth journey.

School Visits

Find out more about CAT’s work with schools and make an enquiry about bringing your class to CAT.

Learn More →
December 18, 2025
Protecting Our Planet Day 2025: Inspiring the Next Generation at CAT
This National Tree Week, CAT hosts POP25, an inspiring live-streamed annual event for schools, presented by the UK Space Education Office (ESERO-UK) at STEM Learning and in collaboration with the European Space Agency and the UK Space Agency.

On 27 November, thousands of young people from across the UK came together virtually for Protecting Our Planet Day (POP25), an extraordinary live-streamed event for schools that’s designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and changemakers. This year, we’re proud that the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is the physical host location for this landmark annual event.

What is POP25?

POP25’s mission is simple yet powerful: to engage schools with the science and solutions that are helping to protect our planet. We urgently need skilled young people entering careers with the leadership and skills to continue exploring and implementing solutions to the climate and biodiversity emergency. Through live sessions, interactive activities, and direct links to research stations around the world, students will explore how climate change is being monitored and mitigated – from space missions to biodiversity conservation.

This year’s programme is packed with inspiring content including:
- Live link to ESA Mission Control to learn how Earth observation satellites track climate change.
- A deep dive into biodiversity protection, featuring producers of the BBC’s upcoming Kingdom series and conservation projects in Zambia.
- Live updates from the Sir David Attenborough research vessel as it journeys between Greenland and the Arctic.
- Connections to the Halley VI Antarctic research station and scientists studying ice sheets in Norway and Northumbria.
And that’s just the start. Every session is designed to show young people that science is not just about understanding problems but about creating solutions.

CAT Biodiversity Engagement Ranger, Sven Verbelen, chatting to POP25 presenters live from CAT.

Why CAT?

Hosting POP25 at CAT is a perfect fit. For over 50 years, CAT has been at the forefront of environmental education and practical solutions to climate change. Our unique location in the heart of Wales, surrounded by forests and renewable energy systems, offers an inspiring backdrop for a day dedicated to protecting the planet.

CAT’s role goes beyond providing a venue. We share the event’s core mission: to empower people with knowledge and skills to build a sustainable future. From our postgraduate courses to school visits and hands-on workshops, CAT is committed to nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. POP25 amplifies this impact by connecting our work with global efforts, including cutting-edge space technology.

Living Wales at POP25

We’re thrilled that Professor Richard Lucas is part of the programme, presenting his Living Wales Project. This pioneering initiative uses Earth observation data to monitor and understand changes in Welsh landscapes – a perfect example of how space science and local action come together to protect ecosystems.

Professor Richard Lucas from Living Wales chatting to POP25 presenter Professor Suzie Imber

National Tree Week 2025

POP25 coincides with National Tree Week, the UK’s largest annual tree celebration, ran by the Tree Council. Forests play a vital role in absorbing carbon, supporting biodiversity, and combating climate change. CAT’s woodland setting and our commitment to sustainable land use make us an ideal host for a day focused on protecting the planet. By linking space-based monitoring with on-the-ground conservation, POP25 highlights how technology and ecology work hand in hand to safeguard our future.

Inspiring Careers and Futures

POP25 isn’t just about science – it’s about career possibilities for young people. Afternoon sessions will showcase 16 different career paths in sustainability and climate action, helping students see that protecting the planet isn’t limited to one discipline. Whether through engineering, data science, conservation, or creative media, there’s a role for everyone.

With nearly 200,000 students and over 10,000 educators signed up, POP25 was the biggest yet!

School Visits

Find out more about CAT’s work with schools and make an enquiry about bringing your class to CAT.

Learn More →
November 27, 2025
CAT conference 2025

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!

Save the date – CAT Conference 2026

21 to 23 August 2026

Advance booking for next year’s Members Conference is now open. Join us for a weekend of tours, talks and workshops exploring how we can help tackle the climate and nature crisis.

Learn more →

September 19, 2025
CAT and students to join ‘Triumph of Art’ event

The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) and their Graduate School students invite you to join them at Trafalgar Square on 26 July 2025 to celebrate the National Gallery’s Bicentenary.

This event is part of The Triumph of Art, a nationwide project by artist Jeremy Deller. It was commissioned by the National Gallery, London, as part of NG200, its Bicentenary celebrations.

Join us in Trafalgar Square

CAT is proud to be a collaborator and exhibiting partner at this extraordinary event, which highlights the role of art, culture, and civic life in shaping our communities. As part of the collaborative programme, CAT’s presence in Trafalgar Square will showcase our commitment to sustainability and positive change through an impressive build exhibit and engagement activities in green skills, alongside fellow institutions from across the UK.

CAT’s Sustainable Architecture students have also been working with Mostyn Gallery, Llandudno and the National Gallery, London, to design and build a structure that will be unveiled for the first time at the unique celebration in Trafalgar Square and is inspired by multiple sources, particularly CAT’s lineage of self-build construction and working with natural materials.

CAT student collaboration with the National Gallery and Mostyn Gallery

Designed by CAT students Hannah Maxey and Anna Drost, they were joined by fellow students (Alfie Hatch, Cat San, Sam Garbett and Louis Parry-Jones) on CAT’s MArch Sustainable Architecture course, and supported by Senior Lecturer, Gwyn Stacey, and Momentum Engineering to build the structure as part of CAT’s Build Week, which offers students the opportunity to gain knowledge of a selection of sustainable building systems through hands-on building workshops.

Throughout the build, students have had help from members of the CAT community and members of the local public with weaving willow using simple techniques to form the woven frames that are part of the roof of the structure.

Student Hannah Maxey said, “This has been an exciting, challenging and inspiring project to be a part of. The skills I have picked up working as part of a team to take the project from brief to build are innumerable – from liaising with Jeremy Deller and Mostyn Gallery, researching and specifying materials, to improving my confidence in the workshop. The opportunity to get hands-on in such a supportive environment is exactly what I wanted from my Master’s at CAT. On top of this, it is especially exciting that the project will go on to showcase the beauty of natural materials in the centre of London.”

Co-CEO of CAT Eileen Kinsman said, “It is wonderful for CAT to be able to share our work as a charity on this scale and at one of the most creative events of the year. It has been inspiring to see how our students over the past year have applied their learning and understanding of implementing sustainable design and construction to the practical opportunity of working with Jeremy Deller and the team from Mostyn Gallery and the National Gallery as part of their Build project. It has been a real pleasure to see the build come to life, and we are excited to see it (the build) revealed this summer in Trafalgar Square.”

Find out more about the event

Find out more about the Triumph of Art project here, and join the celebrations on 26 July. Make sure to also keep an eye on CAT’s social media for updates on the day as the structure is unveiled.

July 17, 2025
What good is persuasion if no one’s paying attention?

Jonathon Porritt is an eminent writer and leading campaigner for sustainable development. For over five decades, he’s provided strategic guidance to the ‘great and the good’, while remaining actively involved in green politics and many different campaigns. In this blog, he shares an excerpt from his upcoming book.

Love, Anger & Betrayal

This July, Jonathon will publish his latest book, ‘Love, Anger & Betrayal’, co-authored with 26 passionate young activists. Fiercely committed to empowering the next generation, Jonathon champions the voices and actions of young people as they confront a future shaped by the twin emergencies of climate change and biodiversity loss. ‘Love, Anger & Betrayal’ is both a clarion call for intergenerational climate justice, and a bold challenge to mainstream environmentalism, as well as a personal exploration into the stories and motivations of what some might call ‘radical’ activists.

We are thrilled to announce that Jonathon, together with one of his inspiring young co-authors, will be joining us as keynote speakers at this year’s annual CAT Conference in August. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from two generations of climate leaders at the forefront of the movement for a sustainable future. We are honoured to offer an exciting short preview of the book here.

Extract

“A word about the title of this book. Before opting for ‘Love, Anger & Betrayal’, my favourite working title was ‘For the Love of God, Pay Attention!’ – as a rather blunt way of capturing the incomprehension felt by these young campaigners as we hurtle towards a world ravaged by climate breakdown. Yet so few people really seem to care. Because of that, there’s an undeniable element of desperation in the choices they make about campaigning tactics, in a world where the old model of political engagement has gone and ‘spectacle beats argument every time’. As Chris Hayes puts it in his excellent book, The Sirens’ Call: How Attention Became the World’s Most Endangered Resource:

Working with young activists has forced me to confront the full extent of today’s ongoing intergenerational injustice – in effect, the whole notion of Intergenerational Justice has been turned on its head. Instead of older generations doing everything they can to ensure a better, more secure future for all those who come after them, today’s younger generation finds itself doing a lot of the heavy lifting to secure a still liveable future not just for themselves, but for their parents and grandparents.

Which is why I hope, almost against all hope, at this very late stage, that all those parents, grandparents and citizens deeply concerned about the future, will find their own way of stepping up – moving from concern to action. When Martin Luther King said that ‘the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice’, he sure as hell didn’t mean that justice will simply arrive, so sit back and wait for the happy outcome! As he said: ‘Social progress never rolls in on the wheels of inevitability. It comes through the tireless efforts and persistent work of dedicated individuals.’

“At its simplest, I’m involved because I love life: people and everything on the planet that makes the world worth fighting for. History tells us that we just have to accept as activists that some people are going to hate us, trying to raise awareness in this way makes some people very angry. But even when they disagree, there’s still a conversation going on. Perhaps they might begin to feel some of that dread?”’- Jacob

“A lot of people are pretending the climate crisis isn’t happening, that it’s all going to be okay. I know my own involvement can make a lot of friends and family feel uncomfortable – almost as if I am the physical embodiment of all those anxieties! Some friends really don’t want to know. ‘It’s a privilege to be part of this, but it can also be incredibly onerous – doing the work every single day, whether it’s front of mind or not, I’m doing it because hundreds of millions of people will suffer in the future. It can be hard being around people who don’t understand that – and who don’t want to have to think about it.”’– Olive

Join Jonathon at the annual CAT Conference this summer, from 15 to 17 August, to dive into the subject in more detail and bring your own ideas and thoughts as a CAT member.

July 10, 2025
CAT’s Innovation Lab: A Co-creative Approach to Systemic Change

At CAT, we believe that real change happens when people come together to share knowledge, challenge assumptions and co-create new ways forward. Our Zero Carbon Britain Innovation Lab is designed to enable exactly that – helping people tackle complex environmental and social challenges through structured, participatory processes.
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June 10, 2025
CAT students exhibit work from their Barmouth community engagement project

Students from the Centre for Alternative Technology Masters in Sustainable Architecture course (M.Arch) will exhibit designs inspired by their recent Abermaw community engagement events on Thursday 19 December 2024 at the Dragon Theatre, Barmouth 4.00pm to 6:30pm.
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December 16, 2024
Community ‘EarthArt’ on show this summer

A new exhibition of environmentally inspired community art created through a series of local workshops is on display at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) this summer.
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June 20, 2022
COVID-19: latest updates
Last updated 6 April 2022

We are open for visits and courses.

Explore the links below to read about what we’re doing, and what you can do to help.
- Our Visitor Centre is open – find out more and book your visit
- On-site short courses are running again, and some of our courses are also available online – find out more and book your place.
- CAT Graduate School students can join us for on-site study visits. Find out more on our Graduate School pages.
- Our online Ecostore is open, full of gifts, goodies, gadgets and great books.
You can still take part in CAT activities from home. Take a look at our CAT at Home resources, with free webinars, online events, family activities and free information on a wide range of sustainability topics.

See you soon – at CAT or online!

Get in touch

Please drop us a line at contactus@cat.org.uk if you have any questions.

Sign up to our enews to receive updates.

Thank you to our amazing supporters

Everyone at CAT would like to say a massive and heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our members and supporters who continue to be there for us during this difficult time.

Your support has helped us to develop new online resources so that we can share zero carbon solutions with thousands of people across the UK and beyond. It is also helping to cover gaps in our income from cancelled courses, events and visits.

We’ve been incredibly touched by the support that we have received. Thank you.

Support our work

CAT is an educational charity. Please consider supporting our work by becoming a member.
April 6, 2022
CAT conversations: Owen Morgan – award-winning renewable energy entrepreneur

As one of the founders of a multi-award-winning renewable energy business, Owen Morgan has spent over a decade working on climate solutions. Alis Rees caught up with him earlier this year to learn more about his work and hear his ‘CAT story’.
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December 16, 2021