Sustainable Growth Assembly: Growing a sustainable and inclusive economy in Nottingham 

The University of Nottingham’s Institute for Policy and Engagement and Green Hustle CIC are hosting a Sustainable Growth Assembly, a one-day, invite-only event on Thursday 15 May.  

This gathering will bring together a diverse mix of the city’s academic, civic, industry and community leaders to shape a shared vision for a just, inclusive and community-driven transition to net zero. 

Mobilising local action 

As the climate crisis deepens and public demand for change grows, the need for urgent yet equitable action has never been more critical. The journey to net zero must be shaped by those who will be most affected by it and those most often excluded from key decision making, especially vulnerable and financially excluded communities.  

The event recognises that the impacts of climate change are global, but the solutions must be local. The Sustainable Growth Assembly creates space for these localised voices and perspectives to influence how change happens, ensuring the benefits of a low-carbon future are shared fairly and inclusively.  

Co-creating regional solutions 

Building on the University’s Delivering a Just Energy Transition report, the assembly aims to: 

• Identify barriers and opportunities to inclusive growth in Nottingham. 

• Create a shared positive narrative around the move to a low carbon future. 

• Support local leadership to drive meaningful change and practical solutions for communities. 

Facilitated by the Nottingham Climate Assembly and Resolve Notts, the day will feature provocations, breakout sessions and meaningful conversations, all designed to generate insights, momentum and community connections.  

Confirmed speakers include: 

• Michael Gallagher, Director of Climate Resilience and Green Growth, East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) 

• Mutsa Makaka, CEO and Founder, Shifting Your Mindset 

• Dr Chris Ives, Associate Professor, School of Geography, University of Nottingham 

From dialogue to action 

Outcomes from the assembly will directly inform a collective call for policy change that enables this shared vision to become a reality. This call to action will be shared at this year’s Green Hustle Festival, held at Nottingham’s Old Market Square on Saturday 31 May, where the wider public will have the opportunity to engage, respond, and contribute to these ideas. 

This event is part of the University of Nottingham’s commitment to place-based climate action, turning strategy into impact, and ensuring just transition is fair, inclusive, and locally and regionally led. 

Follow the event on social media using #SustainableGrowthNotts and join us at the free Green Hustle Festival, celebrating community, creativity, and climate action under the theme of Growing Together, to add your voice to this important conversation.