Sustainable NI recently delivered Session 1 of the Net Zero Training for Urban Placemakers to Belfast City Council’s Regeneration Team, an engaging and positive start to the training. The training was funded by the UP2030 project, which aims to support cities in achieving climate neutrality through urban planning and design.
Participants explored the fundamentals of climate science, Belfast’s key climate risks, and the policy landscape shaping local action. The session also highlighted practical examples of climate-led regeneration, with the Connswater Community Greenway case study demonstrating how climate resilience, community needs and placemaking can be successfully integrated.
The team’s enthusiasm and curiosity were evident throughout. Colleagues shared thoughtful reflections during the One Insight / One Action exercise, with many noting clearer links between climate policy, planning and regeneration, and identifying small, practical steps they can take in their work: from reducing waste to starting new climate conversations within their teams.
One attendee commented:
“This session helped make the links between climate policy, practice and placemaking much clearer — and gave me a sense of where I can start with actions now.”
The strong engagement sets a positive foundation for the next session, which will focus on applying climate-led thinking to live regeneration projects and exploring how the sector can support Belfast’s net zero ambitions.
Sustainable NI looks forward to continuing this collaborative training journey with the team.
