On Wednesday 2nd October, more than 60 representatives from leading organisations across the North East of England met to discuss how the region is preparing for the fall out of the climate emergency. Representatives from local authorities, development corporations, universities, water companies, statutory bodies and the business community were taken on a guided boat tour on the river Tyne. Amongst the visitors was James Bevan, the Environment Agency’s chief executive and Harriet Bulkeley who presented the latest findings of the Naturvation project.

The Tyne Estuary Partnership project, led by the Environment Agency and Groundwork NE & Cumbria, showed first-hand how the Tyne is preparing for the effects of climate change. The Tyne is one of the most iconic and well-known rivers in the UK and provides a focal point for economic activity supporting thriving businesses and communities. The Tyne Estuary Partnership project responds to the government’s 25 Year Environment Plan to create connections between existing initiatives and real practical actions. This could include the introduction of nature-based solutions such as creating a saltmarsh to help with carbon absorption and the implementation of other crucial interventions that can reduce the risk of flooding, clean up air quality and make the area more attractive to residents and visitors to the area.