Inaugural Urban Climate Walking Tour & Workshop ~ Ipswich

RECLAIM Network Plus Workshops - Greener Ipswich Oasis Project: A Pathway to Urban Regeneration an Urban Climate Walking Tour & Challenge Lab

We're delighted to invite you to join us for a thought-provoking workshop and urban walking tour, hosted by Greener Ipswich (GI) and the University of Suffolk (UoS). This event is designed to explore the challenges and opportunities in Ipswich by focusing on the development of sustainable, high-quality urban environments.

The day-long workshop consists of an Urban Climate walk followed by a Challenge Lab. Together they provide an opportunity to explore Ipswich town centre and the waterfront in terms of the environmental challenges in different areas.

Guided Walking Tour: Led by Dr Julie Futcher the walk explores the town's urban design and the impact on green, blue and grey infrastructures (open space, the river, streets and buildings), linking the fundamental elements to foster healthy, climate-resilient cities.

Challenge Lab: Following the walking tour, the Challenge Lab invites you to transform ideas into strategies. This collaborative session uses the morning’s insights to develop projects aimed at enhancing Ipswich’s different environments.

The days provides is a great opportunity to engage in discussions about the significant impact of architectural and urban planning on climate adaptation strategies, connecting the built form with climate, energy, health, and well-being across various scales. The walk and workshop provide a valuable opportunity to gain insights from and network with professionals committed to nurturing healthy, climate-resilient cities.

Please find the attached invitation and detailed agenda below. For more information, or to confirm your attendance, or let us know of any dietary or accessibility requirements please feel free to email julie@climate22.com

AGENDA:

RECLAIM Network Plus Workshops Presents: "Greener Ipswich Oasis Project: A Pathway to Urban Regeneration" An Urban Climate Walking Tour & Challenge Lab

Hosted by: Greener Ipswich (GI) and the University of Suffolk (UoS)

Join us in the vibrant town of Ipswich for a transformative one-day workshop on Thursday, May 16, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

The event led by Dr Julie Futcher and Dr Alison Pooley in collaboration with Greener Ipswich and the University of Suffolk, explores how the town's urban landscape influences ecological and climatic conditions, directly impacting biodiversity health and resilience.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Urban Climate Walk

Meeting Point: East entrance of Christchurch Mansion, Soane St, Ipswich IP4 2BE.

This guided tour examines Ipswich’s green, blue, and grey infrastructure (GBGI), showcasing key sites such as the waterfront, historic street layout, and open spaces. These locations demonstrate the interconnectedness of the urban ecosystem, allowing us to assess the influence of these elements on thermal comfort, air quality, and public health, responding to challenges such as increased rainfall and urban heat islands.

Along with Ipswich, cities that have already adopted the Urban Climate Walk include the City of London, the City of Westminster, Birmingham, and Reading (UK); São Paulo, Brazil; Borlänge, Sweden; and Cardiff, Wales (UK), with new walks planned for Barcelona, Glasgow, and Paris.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch & Networking

Location: University of Suffolk Waterfront Building, Neptune Quay, Ipswich IP4 1QJ.

Enjoy a complimentary lunch and engage in thoughtful conversations with fellow attendees.

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Challenge Lab

Utilize insights from the morning walk to develop actionable strategies in this interactive session. Collaborate on innovative solutions to enhance Ipswich’s GBGI, focusing on:

Interactive Brainstorming: Address urban sustainability challenges.

Strategic Planning: Develop comprehensive plans to improve GBGI.

Local Solutions: Design initiatives that connect the town centre with Suffolk’s natural heritage.

Event Benefits:

Educational Impact: Gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic interactions between urban form, climate, and biodiversity, crucial for sustainable urban planning.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engage with urban planners, architects, environmental scientists, and other stakeholders to foster the adoption of climate-responsive strategies.

Innovative Practices: Explore novel methodologies for integrating urban climate research into built environment practices, enhancing ecological and climatic resilience.

Why Attend?

Learning Opportunities: Discover cutting-edge approaches to urban climate resilience.

Networking: Connect with diverse experts, fostering collaborations for sustainable urban development.

Impact Urban Futures: Help shape a sustainable and resilient urban landscape by addressing complex urban relationships.

This workshop is not merely an event; it's a significant step toward a sustainable and resilient Ipswich. Join us to be part of this transformative change!

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