Blue Earth Summit: ‘A platform for the future where no one gets left behind’

Blue Earth Summit describes itself as a “breakthrough” business summit that brings together “makers and mavericks, founders and futurists, adventurers and investors”.

Taking place from Wednesday to Friday at Propyard and the Wave, the three-day event plays host to “industry pioneers, provocative thought-leaders, sustainability trailblazers, insightful solutionists and boundary-pushing start-ups”.

“It‘s the place to explore, collaborate and take action,” said organisers.

Bristol24/7 asked co-founder Will Hayler what inspired him to establish the summit and how events such as his can drive forward action on climate.

The summit aims to help attendees forge a closer connection to the natural world – photo: Plaster

Tell us about your journey; what was it that motivated you to start Blue Earth Summit?

“I co-founded the Blue Earth Summit with my brother, Guy Hayler, and longstanding business partner, Linley Lewis. We have all had careers which have involved delivering positive impact for people and the wider world that we live in.

“Whether it has been through adventure travel or through media, we have always been motivated by an ambition to do things differently, and a belief that it’s only worth doing something if we can do it better than ever before.

“Blue Earth Summit is founded on a shared set of values, based on a better way to be – both at work and play. Our agenda has been set up to support businesses to deliver positive change for people and the planet. We like to think of ourselves as a platform for the future, where everything thrives and no one gets left behind. Ultimately we believe that people, planet and profit can work together.”

Which speaker are you most looking forward to hearing from and why?

“This year we are set to welcome over 250 speakers to Blue Earth Summit. We have adventurers, business leaders, conservationists, politicians, thought leaders speaking alongside key members of wider society. All are experts in their fields with their own perspective and experience.

“Personally, I enjoy listening to the experience and wisdom of anyone who has disrupted the status quo, or those who have gone beyond what is seen to be ‘possible’.

“Adventurers and business founders often have a lot in common. Both know the plan at the start, but both have to be open and flexible, prepared to alter their course and to overcome hurdles before they reach their intended destination. Neither are afraid of failure, and both are driven by the prize that comes with proving people wrong.

“This year we have lots of pioneering adventurers and founders at Blue Earth, including the sailor and winner of the Golden Globe Race. Every speaker comes with a fascinating story and invaluable insights and it is a joy to hear them talk and connect across so many levels during the Summit and beyond.”

 

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What’s the single most important thing businesses can do to step up on sustainability?

“Businesses need to quickly understand that they can no longer take out more than they put back in. This is unsustainable. We live in a fast moving world and one where people are quick to judge.

“In order to be on the right side of history, business leaders of the future are the ones that understand the need to take a regenerative approach to the way in which we do business.

“Business has the power to go where politics can’t. It can be at the forefront of change, and by working together and connecting with the needs of society, business can build long-term value and simultaneously transform the way the world works.”

How important are events like Blue Earth Summit in driving forward positive action on nature and climate?

“Blue Earth is a must attend summit for purpose led business. To reach our goals, we must work across industries in order to reduce our collective impact. This transformative approach is good for business and it’s essential for our planet. More important than anything is the understanding that the time to act is now.”

Name one of your favourite outdoor spaces and tell us how it inspires you.

“I’m a keen surfer, so anywhere with a coastline. The intersection between land and sea has always been a place that inspires me. Different days and different seasons bring different weather and conditions. With this comes different challenges, adventures and opportunities.

“I find there is a lot of crossover between the outdoor sports mentality and the mentality required when doing business. Ultimately it is up to us to make the most of each day, meeting every challenge head-on and taking time to enjoy the ride. It’s about seizing the moment – and making the most of each and every opportunity that comes our way. This is what we’re doing at Blue Earth Summit.”

To find out more and book tickets, visit blueearthsummit.com

Main photo: Blue Earth Summit

Read next:

• ‘Breakthrough’ business summit to return to Bristol
• UWE Bristol launches ‘UK-first’ climate course
• Bristol campaigners celebrate plastic ban success

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