The event, held at Harbour Lights Picturehouse in Southampton, was hosted by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust alongside Natural England, the New Forest and South Downs National Parks, Isle of Wight Biosphere and Voices for Climate and Nature, kindly supported by Kairos Philanthrophy.  It brought together decision-makers to explore how nature can support economic growth, healthier communities and greater resilience to future risks from climate change. 

The gathering comes at a pivotal time for the region. Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is preparing for devolution and local government reorganisation, with plans for a new Hampshire and Solent Combined County Authority and an elected Mayor, alongside the creation of new unitary councils.

During the event, guests watched the People's Emergency Briefing, a short film bringing together evidence on the climate and nature crisis, before taking part in panel discussions about the opportunities these changes present for the region.

Attendees heard how investment in nature can help tackle flooding, improve public health, support sustainable development and create jobs, while helping restore Hampshire and the Isle of Wight's internationally important habitats and wildlife.

Debbie Tann MBE, Chief Executive for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, said: "Nature is necessary, it’s not just a nice-to-have. It is the critical infrastructure that underpins our society, economy, and security. Nature is a powerful solution to confronting the colliding crises and risks we face, as well as key to unlocking opportunities, jobs, and good, inclusive growth for the region. 

"We want local leaders to make bold, ambitious decisions for nature as the political landscape across our region changes. The decisions being made now will shape Hampshire and the Isle of Wight for decades to come. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to ensure nature is recognised as critical infrastructure alongside transport, housing and energy. If we get this right, we can create a region where both wildlife and communities thrive.

"This event demonstrates the growing recognition that nature must be part of those conversations from the very beginning. We were delighted to welcome so many local leaders and decision-makers and look forward to continuing to work together to create a future-ready region showing real leadership."

Research commissioned by the Trust, and produced by ARUP, found widespread support for a nature-positive future, with 94 per cent of surveyed stakeholders agreeing that nature is important to the long-term success of Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and the Solent. The report concluded that a healthy natural environment is fundamental to a strong economy and resilient communities.

The event was also supported by strong public interest. Ahead of the event, over 200 residents used Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust's online action tool to contact council leaders and encourage them to attend and show their commitment to a nature-positive future.

Over the coming months, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and partners will continue to work with elected representatives, organisations and local communities to keep nature high on the agenda as plans for the region's future develop.

The event marks the beginning of a wider programme of engagement led by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and its partners to support nature-positive decision-making across the region ahead of the introduction of new governance arrangements and the future mayoral election. 

Find out more about devolution here.