Three Key Staffordshire Organisations Pledge to Drive Environmental Change

Three Key Staffordshire Organisations Pledge to Drive Environmental Change
Historic step towards a greener future as region’s COP Charter gains new signatories

The region’s annual COP conference returned last Friday, drawing nearly 200 people beneath the soaring arches of Lichfield Cathedral — a striking backdrop for a day dedicated to climate action across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

The Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Celebration of the Possible (COP) Conference on 14 March brought together civic leaders, businesses, community groups, and campaigners — all united by a shared determination to accelerate the region’s response to the climate crisis.

At the heart of the event was the public signing of the COP Charter — a pledge to collaborate and drive sustainable change. In a symbolic moment, three organisations added their names to the growing list of signatories: Lichfield Cathedral, TopCashback, and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

Organisers The Globe Group CIC, who are part of the team spearheading the COP programme, hailed the signing as a significant milestone in strengthening local climate ambitions.

Councillor Sarah Hill, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said:  “Signing the COP Charter is a natural next step for us. It fits perfectly with our goal to create a sustainable, thriving city. We’re already taking action, including early development of a District Heat Network, promoting sustainable travel through our Transforming Cities programme and Bus Service Improvement Protocol, and we will be supporting tree planting in celebration of our Centenary.”

The conference came as the local impacts of climate change grow ever more visible. Staffordshire has experienced a sharp rise in extreme weather events — from flash floods that have overwhelmed drainage systems and damaged homes, to record-breaking summer heatwaves affecting agriculture, wildlife, and public health. According to the Met Office, 2023 was one of the UK’s hottest years on record, with the West Midlands enduring prolonged droughts and unseasonal storms.

“At TopCashback, we believe that sustainability enhances efficiency, minimises waste, encourages innovation, and ultimately drives growth that supports both businesses and communities nationwide. Championing sustainability is essential to securing the long-term health of our planet, societies and economies, and we remain committed to driving positive change. This is why we are part of the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent COP and supporting the Sustainability Agenda.” Michelle Hayes, Communications & Events Manager for TopCashback announced during her speech at the conference.

In another major announcement, the COP organisers unveiled a new partnership with sustainability platform OnePlanet. The platform will provide a digital tool designed to help communities and organisations map, track, and develop climate action plans — from grassroots initiatives to major strategic programmes.

Organisers described the partnership as “a critical step forward” in giving local people, councils, and businesses the means to collaborate and take meaningful action towards a more sustainable future.

The conference also showcased a range of regional initiatives and expertise, with exhibitors and speakers sharing updates on key strategic projects. These included the Staffordshire Sustainability Board, Transforming the Trent Valley, the Local Nature Recovery Partnership, and the Innovate UK Green Skills for Local Growth programme — each contributing to the region’s growing sustainability agenda.

Adding an interactive element, the Staffordshire Dreamhouse — designed to spark conversations about sustainable living — was on display, brought to the event courtesy of Lichfield District Council.

As the day drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of cautious optimism — a recognition that while the challenges ahead are significant, Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are laying the foundations for the collective action the climate emergency demands.

For more information, visit staffordshirecop.com