Newry Chamber has launched the inaugural Greater Newry Sustainability Conference & Expo which will be held on Thursday 28th May in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.
Entitled: ‘Building a Sustainable Future & The Green Economy’, the half day Conference & Expo is supported by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Kinecx Energy, AIB, Re-Gen and NIE Networks, and will focus on the challenges and opportunities we face as a business community across the Greater Newry Area in growing our economy in a sustainable way.
The Conference & Expo will be moderated by Newry’s own, Broadcaster & Journalist, Dearbhail McDonald and delegates will hear from expert keynote speakers and panellists across key areas including:
- The Future of Recycling in Northern Ireland
- Delivering a Lower Carbon Energy Future for Greater Newry
- Energy Transition: Renewable Electricity & Decarbonisation
- Green Credentials: ESG, Sustainable Finance, Infrastructure & Construction
This inaugural event will provide a positive environment for networking and discussion with breakout areas, exhibition stands and roundtable conversations on sustainability challenges and opportunities facing local business and will highlight the huge potential to develop Greater Newry into a Green Economy Hub on the island of Ireland.
For many businesses, sustainability can feel complex or difficult to navigate. Yet when approached with the right understanding, it can unlock new opportunities for growth, efficiency and long-term resilience.
At the conference, delegates will learn how sustainability can help drive competitive advantage, ensure regulatory compliance, safeguard energy security, reduce risks, lower our carbon footprint and help SMEs in the Greater Newry Area address the rising costs of doing business.
Energy security has come sharply into focus in recent months, with the volatility in oil and gas markets, as a result of the conflict in the Middle East and the conference will hear how embracing green energy and renewables can help to alleviate our high dependence on fossil fuels to meet our energy needs.
The event will feature a range of expert speakers and include a mix of presentations, panel discussions and interactive roundtable sessions with numerous businesses and organisations also exhibiting on the day, to highlight how they can help local businesses on their sustainability journey.
The full conference programme will be announced in the coming days and it is FREE to attend for Newry Chamber members and £50.00 + VAT for Non-Members and you can book your place HERE.
Conor Patterson, President, Newry Chamber said:
“Newry Chamber is delighted to host this inaugural Sustainability Conference and we are looking forward to an informative and positive solution-focused event where all the key players involved in building a sustainable future and a strong green economy across our island can come together and share ideas that ultimately protect our planet, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and provide cost-effective sustainable solutions to growing our economy.”
“The event will also focus on the need for our region to embrace and develop the Green Economy and will hear from businesses and organisations that are playing an innovative and pivotal role in driving and growing this sector, creating jobs in industries that help us lower our carbon footprint, reduce energy costs and support increased productivity.”
“We look forward to welcoming all local businesses to what promises to be an excellent event so that we as a business community learn as much as we can about what assistance, supports and solutions are available to making all of our businesses more sustainable.”
Cllr. Philip Campbell, Chairperson, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council added:
“The Council is delighted to support Newry Chamber with its Sustainability Conference. We are keen to work with and support our local businesses and residents with the challenges of climate change, energy and waste issues and the Conference will provide an excellent forum to discuss these openly and work together on sustainable solutions.”
Niall Martindale, CEO, Kinecx Energy said:
“Kinecx Energy is proud to support the inaugural Greater Newry Sustainability Conference & Expo which will bring together businesses to explore practical, forward-looking solutions for a greener economy.”
“We have been investing in Newry since our formation in 2005, and as a gas network operator, we recognise the critical role energy security and decarbonisation play in supporting economic growth.”
“This event provides an important platform to share knowledge and help local businesses navigate the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Greater Newry and beyond.”
Joseph Doherty, CEO, Re-Gen added:
“Re-Gen is delighted to be participating in this inaugural Sustainability conference where key businesses are playing leading and innovative roles in this critical sector. Driving carbon emission reduction is vital to ensure a cleaner future for all.”
Brian Gillan, Head of Retail & NI, AIB said:
“At AIB, supporting businesses through the transition to a more sustainable future is a key priority for us. We work alongside our customers to provide practical support, guidance and the right financial solutions to help them plan for the long term and invest with confidence.”
“This conference provides an important platform for sharing insights, exploring opportunities and connecting businesses with the support available to help turn sustainability ambition into meaningful action.”