This unique, international conference explores how cities and regions across Europe can creatively adapt to climate change impacts and the adaptation challenges faced by our arts and cultural sector.

Showcasing unique, innovative and creative approaches to solving complex climate challenges, the conference will present new ways of working collaboratively in adaptation, and bring together a diverse and ambitious group of adaptation practitioners, city officials, cultural organisations and artists from across Europe and the UK.

Programme overview

Speakers from Scotland, Europe and around the world will join delegates in keynote presentations, panel discussions and interactive networking sessions over four afternoons.

• Day 1 - Transformation in Culture: What has been done so far? Sharing best practice in mitigation and adaptation in Scotland's cultural sector and further afield as we look ahead to COP26 in Glasgow.
• Day 2 - Transformation of Culture: How can cultural organisations and SMEs adapt to climate change in their region? What are the first steps and where do the challenges lie? Learning from adaptation professionals and adapting cultural pioneers.
• Day 3 - Transformative Adaptation: What have Covid-19 taught us about resilience and adaptation? How can our culture shape our adapting places, and how can we evaluate transformational interventions? Reflecting on the past year and exploring pioneering adaptation project across Europe.
• Day 4 - Transformation through Culture: How can cultural practices help in driving for positive change? How can art and creative methods contribute to climate change adaptation? Disseminating learning from the ongoing Embedded Artist Projects and leading examples from across Europe.

Cultural Adaptations

The conference marks the conclusion of Cultural Adaptations: an action research project supported by the Creative Europe programme of the European Union and co-funded by the Scottish Government. More information can be found on the Cultural Adaptations website, including news, city profiles, and resources for cultural organisations and for adaptation practitioners.