Every age has its challenge. Ours is climate change. We need to scrap the talk of gloom and sacrifice, and find new ways to create a greener, smarter, fairer and more beautiful city. That’s why we’re starting with a festival.
Birmingham, pioneer of the industrial revolution, will help lead a low-carbon revolution by hosting the UK’s first climate change festival.
What will this revolution lead to? Beautiful squares and attractive liveable streets. Cleaner air. Easy walking and cycling. Large trees, shading streets and buildings. New markets, investment and jobs in green technologies.
Energy efficient homes and offices that are much cheaper to run. Easy access to local networks and services.
Life sounds pretty good in a well-designed, sustainable city.
The festival is organised by Birmingham City Council and CABE, the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment - the government's champion of well-designed buildings and spaces.
The festival is supported by BeBirmingham, Advantage West Midlands, Crest Nicholson and E.On, with additional support from The Green Bus Company and Amey.
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The climate change festival takes place from Saturday 31 May – Sunday 8 June 2008 in Birmingham. Over nine days, the festival will help people to see the city with new eyes. It features exhibitions, events, street theatre, art and fun for everyone.
Here's a flavour:
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Watch the inspiring urban art of parkour – or ‘free running’ – transform buildings and urban spaces into performance areas with runners turning obstacles into launch pads.
Birmingham City Centre
Saturday 31 May
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Take one giant map, half a tonne of plasticine, and remodel your city - however you like. Think like an architect and act like a builder!
Centenary Square
Saturday 31 May – Tuesday 3 June
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Look out for the walks and tours throughout the week which will reveal a hidden side of the city – from green roofs to the insides of iconic buildings. Guides include leading architects, developers and regeneration experts.