Climate action projects highlighted in Portsmouth as part of epic 2,436 km relay

Celebrating climate action projects in Portsmouth, in collaboration with Portsmouth City Council, the baton will reached the city earlier today (1 July 2024).

The relay began on 6 June at Lochaber High School at the foot of Ben Nevis, and is undertaking a people-powered 2,436km journey, via inspiring communities nationwide, finishing at Big Ben in London on 4 July.

The relay is the country’s only sporting event for climate and this year’s is the biggest yet. Its route comprises 210 stages and visits over 80 different climate and nature projects, sporting organisations and venues, as well as schools, events and iconic locations, combining the love of sport with a huge celebration of public campaigning and action for climate and nature.

The relay is also an opportunity for the council to promote positive physical health and activity, along with encouraging healthy lifestyles in the city’s communities. The baton circumnavigated Portsea Island taking in sailing with the Andrew Simpson Centre, a mini triathlon with the Portsmouth Triathletes, Portsmouth’s new sea defences including the  Southsea Coastal Scheme‘s ‘Theatre of the Sea‘, and Portsmouth International Port where Portsmouth Climate Choir performed.

On its journey, the baton visited Meon Junior School, Stamshaw Junior School, and Redwood Park Academy. Pompey in the Community and Goodgym also joined legs of the relay.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, who welcomed the baton to Portsmouth said:  “Climate change is one of the most important and complex challenges our society has ever faced. We are in this together, and together we will continue to make strides towards our shared goal of a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. The relay gives us an opportunity to highlight some of the climate action projects here in the city as we strive to reach net-zero and bring those benefits to our local residents and our natural environment.

“This includes new sea defences to prepare us for the effects of climate change, including the fantastic ‘Theatre of the sea’, which was designed and delivered by the Southsea Coastal Scheme. There are also efforts across the city to slash carbon emissions including exciting developments with ‘shore power’ for ships and solar panels at our city owned port.

“As fitting for maritime city like Portsmouth, we wish you fair winds and following seas for the rest of your journey.”

The relay will be collaborating with a wide range of partners to raise awareness of and inspire action on climate and nature issues. The message in the relay baton emphasises that we are united in our call for politicians of all parties to cut emissions; restore nature; and help those most affected by climate change.

Running Out of Time Co-Founders Dan Thompson and Jamie Hay added: “We are delighted to be working with Portsmouth City Council, the Andrew Simpson Centre, Portsmouth Triathletes, Pompey in the Community and Portsmouth International Port to help highlight the wide array of active travel options in Portsmouth and the many exciting initiatives creating a more sustainable future for Portsmouth.”