The chief executive of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has been confirmed as one of the headline speakers at a major national sustainability forum taking place in the region.
Designed to support businesses and organisations navigating the transition to a greener, more resilient economy, FUTUREPROOF 2026 will address the practical challenges facing the sector, including net zero targets, rising costs, skills shortages and regulatory change.
The event, in Nottingham, will feature more than 60 speakers – including EMCCA chief executive Amy Harhoff and director of green growth and climate resilience Michael Gallagher – with 40-plus sessions across four stages, combining expert insight, panel discussion and audience engagement.
Amy said: “The move towards a net zero, climate-resilient economy is one of the most important challenges facing the East Midlands, but it also presents a real opportunity to do things differently and do them better. Events like FUTUREPROOF matter because they bring together people from across policy, business and academia to have practical conversations about what change actually looks like in the real world.
“At EMCCA, we’ve made a clear commitment to tackling the climate crisis and supporting the region on its journey to becoming net zero by 2050. For us, this isn’t just about meeting targets – it’s about stimulating green growth, creating cleaner transport, more energy-efficient homes, greener places to live and supporting the skills and innovation needed for a more sustainable economy.
“By working collaboratively and learning from one another, we can ensure the East Midlands is well-placed for the future and able to lead on sustainable green growth, capitalising on our legacy assets and regional strengths. I’m looking forward to contributing to those conversations in Nottingham this February.”
The first event of its kind in the region, FUTUREPROOF 2026 brings together national policymakers, global industry, local leaders, academics and small to medium-sized enterprises to explore solutions across seven interconnected sustainability themes, including energy, travel, buildings, finance and mindset, aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Nottingham’s strong sustainability credentials make it a natural host city. As a pioneer of the Workplace Parking Levy, which has helped reduce congestion growth and cut carbon emissions by over 30% since 2005, the city is well placed to lead the next phase of delivery. With growing regional investment and nationally significant programmes such as STEP Fusion based in Nottinghamshire, 2026 marks a pivotal moment to turn ambition into action.
Alongside Amy, headline speakers include:
Together, these speakers represent a strong line-up reflecting FUTUREPROOF’s goal to move beyond discussion and into practical action.
Dr Cowan said: “Commercialisation of fusion power is one of the most exciting scientific, engineering, and commercial challenges of our generation – and one with global impact for communities and industry. With STEP Fusion, the UK government’s flagship fusion prototype plant based at West Burton in Nottinghamshire, many of these benefits will be felt in the region.
“I’m delighted to be speaking at Future Proof where my talk will explore how STEP Fusion is progressing, what we have already achieved and what is yet to come, including opportunities for innovators, engineers, young people and industry who want to be part of a world-leading programme. Future Proof will bring together stakeholders with an interest in clean technology and the future of the economy, so grab your tickets and join us.”
The Lord Ravensdale said: “I look forward to attending and speaking at FUTUREPROOF this February. The UK’s net zero ambitions will only be achieved if national energy policy is matched by strong regional leadership and by open, practical conversations between government, industry and business leaders – FUTUREPROOF provides exactly the kind of platform needed to drive meaningful change. Nottingham’s track record in sustainability makes it an ideal place to host these conversations, and I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the forum.”
Mr Ali said: “I’m delighted to be a keynote speaker at FUTUREPROOF Nottingham. At the University of Nottingham, sustainability is central to everything we do, and events like this provide vital spaces to listen, contribute and help shape conversations that matter – locally, nationally and globally.
“We’re committed to addressing the complex challenges facing our planet and making meaningful contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Our world-leading research places us among the global Top 100 for many of these goals, from responsible consumption and production to sustainable cities and communities. We work closely with civic and business partners to create places where people can live, work and thrive.
“Our industry-focused research and inclusive education keep us grounded in our commitment to creating a better future for all through our pioneering work. FUTUREPROOF Nottingham offers a powerful opportunity to turn ambition into action, and I’m excited to be part of a collective effort to build a more sustainable future for all.”
FUTUREPROOF 2026 is on Wednesday 25 February 2026, from 9am-5pm, at Broadway Cinema, Nottingham. Tickets are available, with Visit Nottinghamshire and Nottingham Partners members eligible for a 20 per cent discount. Click here to find out more and book your tickets.
Published on: 6 February 2026
Categories: News, Economic Development, Governance, Net Zero