Geographies of climate and ecological emergencies

This project will explore the role of cooperation and coordination between community groups, young people, and their local areas in efforts to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies that today’s society faces.

This focuses on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown’s influence on climate action amongst the communities of Staffordshire and exploring peoples’ (re)connection with nature. The methods used included questionnaires to residents of Staffordshire and public participatory approaches where they contribute to a map of ‘green’ sustainable places and spaces, and an exhibition titled ‘Sustainable Staffordshire’ highlighting people’s experiences of sustainability and place in Staffordshire and through the journey out of lockdown. These methods will be disseminated and continually updated on the project’s website.

The project considers the collaboration, barriers, and overall efforts towards a more sustainable Staffordshire, aiming to make sustainability a local issue. In turn, helping to create a network of green communities, individuals and organisations that contribute to sustainability, conservation, and the recovery of nature post COVID-19.

• Keele Academic Lead: Alana Wheat and Professor Deirdre McKay
• Methods used: Questionnaires for youth (16-24yr) and community initiatives, place mapping, and photographic exhibition.