About the event

Cornwall’s natural environment is woven into every part of life in the county - from its iconic landscapes and wildlife to the wellbeing, identity, and livelihoods of those who call it home. Yet the evidence of ecological decline is growing, raising urgent questions about the future of Cornwall’s wild places and the species that depend on them. Is this downward trajectory unavoidable, or are there real, tangible opportunities to restore nature at scale?

This panel discussion, chaired by BBC Radio Cornwall presenter, Julie Skentelbery, will explore some of the most pressing issues facing Cornwall’s natural environment today:

• What is driving nature loss in Cornwall, and where are we already seeing positive change?
• What tools, policies, and community efforts offer genuine hope for recovery - and what’s still missing?
• Crucially, what could a nature-rich Cornwall of the future look like, and what steps can we take now to turn ambition into action?

Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring the pressures facing Cornwall's wildlife and whether inspiring conservation activities are enough to reserve the decline.

The panel:

• Gillian Burke - Broadcaster and Wildlife Presenter
• Meg Hayward Smith - Community Nature Advocate & Cornwall Wildlife Trust Trustee
• Philip Marsden - Award-winning Author
• Professor Kevin Gaston - Professor of Biodiversity and Conservation at the University of Exeter

Your Ticket:

Included with your ticket is a reception with food and drinks before the panel discussion, we invite you to select your pasty as you check-out. After the discussion, we'd love you to join us for a final drink and the chance to meet the panel and team.