2026 Event Programme
- Jan 30, 2026
- Somerset House, London, UK
In January 2026, senior leaders from business, government and the environmental sector came together for a focused, high-level Forum exploring how the UK’s protected landscapes can help deliver nature recovery, climate resilience and social value at scale.
Covering 25% of the nation’s land, National Parks and National Landscapes represent one of the UK’s most significant opportunities to align private investment with measurable impact.
Through targeted sessions and live case studies, the programme demonstrated practical pathways for deploying private capital, managing risk and accelerating action in support of corporate net zero and ESG objectives.
Be the first to know about the 2027 programme by registering your interest today.
Time |
Session |
|---|---|
| 09:30 | Registration |
| 10:15 | Welcome from Mary Creagh CBE MP, Minister for Nature (TBC) |
| 10:30 | PRESENTATION: A vision for our protected landscapes Speakers: Cat Hawkins, Chief Executive, National Parks Partnerships John Watkins, Chief Executive, National Landscapes Association |
| 11:00 | Networking Session |
| 11.30 | PRESENTATION: Delivering for nature How green finance and private partnerships can accelerate change Speakers: Hannah Wilcox Brooke, Head of Nature-based Solutions, National Landscapes Association Holly Story, Head of Nature-based Solutions, National Parks Partnerships |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 12:45 | WORKSHOP A: Carbon Accelerating action towards net zero with nature-based carbon As scrutiny of corporate net zero claims intensifies, demand is growing for high-integrity, UK-based nature carbon solutions that deliver real, measurable impact. National Parks and National Landscapes are committing to restoring approximately 130,000 hectares of peat and increasing tree canopy and woodland cover by 3% by 2050, creating a significant pipeline of long-term carbon projects. This workshop will explore how nature-based carbon credits from protected landscapes can support credible corporate net zero strategies. Participants will hear how these projects are being developed, governed and verified, and what this means for businesses seeking trusted routes to net zero. OR WORKSHOP B: Water Nature-based solutions for increasing resilience in catchments, communities and supply chains Water-related climate risks, including drought, flooding and water pollution, are already a costly reality for many businesses and communities across the UK. Addressing these risks requires long-term, landscape-scale solutions that go beyond traditional grey infrastructure. This workshop will showcase two ambitious initiatives using nature- based solutions to strengthen catchment resilience, protect communities and safeguard economic activity. Explore how private finance can be mobilised to support these approaches, the value they deliver in terms of risk reduction and resilience, and how businesses can engage in solutions that create lasting environmental and social returns. |
| 13:45 | Afternoon Refreshments |
| 14:00 | WORKSHOP C: Innovation Adding value through data and technology High quality nature-based solutions depend on robust data, credible monitoring and the latest scientific evidence. This workshop introduces the Landscape Observatory, a new DEFRA-supported initiative from the Protected Landscapes Partnerships that brings together AI mapping, habitat condition monitoring and Adaptive Management to conserve and protect our landscapes from the impacts of climate change. Discover how a strategic partnership with Vodafone is helping to unlock this pioneering approach and how cutting-edge technology can bring projects to life, strengthen evidence of impact and improve long-term outcomes. Through practical examples, the session will show how data and digital tools are transforming project design, monitoring and reporting – creating new opportunities for scalable, investable nature and climate solutions. OR WORKSHOP D: Biodiversity Building high-integrity solutions Biodiversity Net Gain has created a market for biodiversity units in England. National Parks and National Landscapes offer the scale, governance and long-term vision needed to develop strategic habitat banks capable of supplying trusted UK nature credits for both compliance and voluntary markets. This workshop will showcase live opportunities, including the South Downs National Park’s ReNature Credits and Big Chalk - a Protected Landscapes Partnerships initiative supported by DEFRA. Participants will explore how the challenges and opportunities for buyers and conservation leaders in connecting private markets with urgent biodiversity action. |
| 15:00 | Closing Remarks |
| 15:30 | Finish |