In order to encourage the actors and citizens of the territory to act to fight against climate change, Brest métropole is offering them tools for mobilisation and commitment.
On the 7th of July, 70 professionals, elected officials and citizens took part in an evening of information and discussion on this theme. Several companies, associations, municipalities and institutions were present, reflecting the diversity of actors interested in these issues.
Glen DISSAUX, Vice-President in charge of the Climate Plan and Agenda 2030 at Brest métropole, reminded the audience in his introduction that “the posture of the local authority [Brest metropole] is, starting from the alarming observation of climate change, to find concrete solutions. How can each company, association and administration play its part in mitigating climate change, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and adapting to future changes and the major ecological challenges facing the region? The role of Brest métropole is to support, promote and make possible all virtuous initiatives.”
Committed actors then illustrated the progress of the TOMORROW project and presented their actions in the form of a pitch followed by a free discussion with the participants.
Among the first ten signatories of the climate charter proposed by Brest métropole (learn more about it in this article), three came to present their approach: Brest'aim, a semi-public company managing cultural, sports and tourist facilities; Celtabio, a cooperative shop selling organic products; and ENIB, an engineering school.
Two active members of the first coalitions also shared their experience and encouraged new partners to join them.
- The first coalition brings together associations who want to promote alternative mobility to individual car, a particularly important challenge because 49% of the inhabitants' journeys are made by car compared to only 30% by active modes (cycling, walking, etc.). This group already has projects in mind, such as the organisation of awareness-raising events, like "car-free day".
- The second coalition brings together actors from higher education and research and companies present in a large business park in the region, the "Technopôle Brest Iroise". After an initial meeting in June, they have already identified some actions, which could be shared and implemented together, for example to facilitate employee and student mobility, to develop local food systems and to reduce waste.
Finally, Brest métropole presented a new call for projects allowing to financially support energy transition initiatives led by associations or inhabitants.
Following this event, several people wished to join groups of actors formed into coalitions and receive the charter of commitment. Other meetings will be organised in the coming months to continue to promote the actions of committed actors and encourage meetings between them.