The Exchange will host Dorset’s third community-led COP on Saturday 1st November, a one-day gathering organised by Sustainable Dorset that puts local voices at the heart of the climate conversation.
Workshops will run throughout the day on topics including nature recovery, river pollution, food security, transport, retrofitting and renewable energy, with guest input from solar entrepreneur Howard Johns. Visitors can also meet the people behind inspiring grassroots initiatives – from repair cafés and village-led climate groups to community food projects and creative arts exploring our relationship with the land.
‘This is a day for farmers, organisers, repairers, youth workers, growers, wildlife champions, and anyone dreaming of a fairer, more resilient Dorset,’ says Sustainable Dorset chair Jennifer Morisetti. ‘With 77 per cent of Dorset’s land farmed, and Sturminster Newton right in the heart of the Blackmore Vale’s prime dairy farmland, it’s the ideal place to focus on rural issues. Topics will include nature recovery, river pollution, food security, transport and retrofit.’
Laura Tyley of This Living Place adds: ‘There’s so much inspiring action already happening across our rural communities. What we often lack are opportunities to bring all that energy together in one room – to connect, to learn from one another and to feel part of something bigger. Dorset COP is fast becoming that space.
‘Unlike the international COPs – which are disconnected from people’s everyday lives and the real ecosystems we depend on – local COPs flip that on their head. They remind us that meaningful action starts in local contexts: in our towns, villages and shared spaces. If we’re going to build a thriving future for both people and our planet, it has to come from the bottom up.’
The COPs’ aim is not only to raise questions – how do we adapt, how do we care for each other and the land, how do we build resilience? – but to share answers and highlight practical examples already working across the county.
Dorset COP 2025 aims to be open and accessible to everyone and is operating a pay-what-you-can policy this year. ‘There’s a suggested donation of £10, which helps cover the costs,’ Jennifer says. ‘But please pay what feels possible for you. No one will be turned away due to cost. What matters most is that you’re there.’
Dorset COP 2025 is at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton, Saturday 1st November, 9am to 5pm. dorsetcop.info
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