Upwards of 130 sustainability professionals from 87 of our member organisaitons came together at the British Museum.

The Network chair, Sir Ed Davey, opened the conference. “Today is about two things – gathering ideas, and inspiring action.”

The event marked an important moment for the future of our heritage as a collaboration between Fit for the Future and the Heritage Lottery Fund was announced.  HLF’s Chief Executive, Ros Kerslake, gave a poignant keynote speech.

“We absolutely support the Fit for the Future principle that, more often than not, the solution is already out there when it comes to making buildings, land and whole organisations more sustainable. We will therefore be encouraging grantees, new and old, to become part of the network so that they can learn from others and in time share their own stories so that together we continue to develop good practice in this field.”

A round of quick-fire case studies from members revealed how sustainable initiatives have led to huge savings and big changes within their organisations. This included a staggering £195,000 saved by Newcastle Hospitals through an overhaul of their waste management systems, enough to pay for nine new nurses, and £278,000 worth of savings made by Cancer Research UK by getting a handle on energy data, enough to pay for 3 microscopes that can detect and track tumour cells.

At the photo booth, members shared what Fit for the Future projects, people and ideas have most inspired them this year.

Then it was time to gather new ideas and plan for the future. Insightful workshops covered cutting energy in historic buildings, bridging the gap from policy to action on climate change, and how to make that crucial business case for sustainability work. We heard from Sheila Holden OBE, key business adviser during the London 2012 Olympics, The Charterhouse, National Trust, Historic England and RSPB.

Sir Ed then launched Fit for the Future’s new Ambassadors Programme, which recognises and celebrates members doing fantastic work within Fit for the Future and contributing so much to its success. These ambassadors will be championing the Network externally within their difference sectors.

Speeches were given by three of the new ambassadors: National Trust’s Director General, Dame Helen Ghosh, Kew Gardens Energy Manger, Richard Hillyard, and Ashden’s Fouder Director, Sarah Butler-Sloss.

The day was rounded off with an evening drinks reception, with members networking, celebrating successes and making plans for the year ahead.

A huge thank you to all involved in ‘inspiring action’ at this year’s Network Harvest!

To become part of this inspiring network of people and projects, get in touch with the Fit for the Future team. This event is part of our yearly programme of conferences, workshops and site visits. Check out what else we offer our members and the difference we make in our latest impact report.