What's Green in Brum?

Listings …

Starts 31 May 2008

Ends 8 June 2008
Free admission

A wide variety of entertaining and informative activities for all the family focusing on the impact we can make on Climate Change in our daily lives and how we plan and use our city. Organised by Birmingham City Council.

Now has its own website at www.climatechangefestival.org.uk! Here are the events listings on that website as of 19 May 2008 – check their site for updates.
Saturday 31 May

A dramatic and energetic launch for the festival with parkour bringing an edge to the city centre streets. Come along to create a Birmingham of the future at the hugely popular touring Claystation, designed for adults as well as children. Rid yourself of old IT equipment with an easy conscience, and get your your bike checked out for free (both all weekend). And a special carousel and helter skelter – who said low carbon living was no fun?

Sunday 1 June

A great family day out, with CBBC characters to entertain younger children. For one day only, a special sculpture workshop for families. Catch lively street theatre and performances (and on every other day of the festival too). A good day to get to know your city better, with tours of Warwick Bar, Eastside and the canals, and an energy tour of Balsall Heath Ecohouse.

Monday 2 June

The launch of Recycle Now, with a recycling roadshow and special bag swap offer. A chance to learn more from leading architects about the most exciting projects ahead for the city, and visit the iconic Rotunda with the developer behind its restoration. Exhibitions, stalls and performers – as for every day.

Tuesday 3 June

Schools day sponsored by the Green Bus Company. Thousands of pupils in the city centre for the Basic 21 Awards, and hear about new school plans to protect biodiversity. Try a masterclass on climate change, get some practical advice on recycling in construction, go on a tour of secret green roofs and listen climate change songs from a gospel choir.

Wednesday 4 June

Green technology day, sponsored by Amey. Expert advice on reducing your carbon footprint, and seminars on energy, waste and sustainable procurement and the role of science in creating the future. A chance to hear from Urban Initiatives about the ambition to make Birmingham a walking city, and take a fresh look at the city centre with Gherkin architect Ken Shuttleworth. Plus tours of Bournville and Fort Dunlop’s great green roof, and an exhibition on sustainable travel.

Thursday 5 June

The city celebrates World Environment Day, and Ellen MacArthur joins us to mark the launch of the city’s bold carbon reduction targets. Learn from the Summerfield eco village programme, hear the challenges ahead for historic buildings, and tour an eco house. No less than 38 schools are taking part in a green day organised with CABE. Look out for green activity in shops, and wear something green!

Friday 6 June

Films on Friday on a big screen in Chamberlain Square. Get some useful new insights from a home owner forum into how technology can help to cut bills and save the planet.

Saturday 7 June

Local food and fair trade day, with live world music and dancing. The exhibitions and stalls busy all week in Centenary Square are now joined by more market stalls promoting ethical and tasty produce. Afterwards you can recover at the peaceful Nature Centre at Cannon Hill Park.

Sunday 8 June

Dare to dream. A fun and sociable finale to the festival to show what life could be like in a well-designed city. Tai chi, jazz music and a tea dance. What better way to celebrate our determination to move on from carbon dependency? This is where the festival organisers will be taking to the dance floor. Bring a picnic and see you there!