Build Back Better with 4theRegion

Dawn Lyle from 4theRegion sits down with experts in environmental assessments and sustainability, to discuss how businesses can get the advice and support they need to decarbonise their operations.  We talk about why this is important from the perspective of supplying into large businesses and public sector organisations, and some of the risks and pitfalls associated with not taking your green credentials seriously.  This roundtable discussion is part of the build up to the 4theRegion Green Economy Conference & Exhibition for South West Wales, taking place in Swansea Arena on Tuesday 19th November 2024. Our Panellists for this conversation were: Alex Ross, Director of Circular Resource Specialists Enock Ebbah from Ebbah Sustainovation Ltd  - Find Enock on LinkedIn Mark Grant from the Welsh Government Sustainable Food & Drink Cluster Maxwell Green from ARCS (Applied Research For Circular Solutions) at Swansea University Leon Edwards, Carbon Solutions Specialist with Auditel Find out more at: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/green-economy-conference-2024/

Welcome to the first of our Round Table discussions leading up to the regional Green Economy Conference on the 19th November at Swansea Arena. In this episode, we dive into community-led housing initiatives that are paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future in South West Wales. Our Panel: Sarah Foster: Pembrokeshire Community Led Housing Development Officer at PLANED; Jonathan Hughes: Community Led Housing Advisor for Cwmpas; Adam Land: Board Member of Gwyr Community Land Trust, on the Gower Peninsula; Leonie Ramondt and Adrian Lester, from Swansea Co-Housing. Together, they discuss the vision of affordable, sustainable homes in cohesive neighbourhoods and the challenges of making this vision a reality amidst the current property market and land use issues. From rural to urban settings, our panel explores alternative ways of building, living, and fostering community spirit. And please register your place at the Green Economy Conference on 19th November 2024: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/green-economy-conference-2024/

Today we're talking about the circular economy. The transition away from the consumer economy and towards an economy that actually serves our wellbeing is going to take many forms, and it is happening across Wales as a whole and across the world. We discuss opportunities that exist, and what people, businesses and organisations are doing to strengthen our circular economy: What do we think is needed now and in future, and how we might collaborate to really develop and enhance circular economy principles and practices.

Community resilience is a subject that is really close to our hearts at 4theregion. A big part of our work is to enable the kind of collaboration and empowerment and place-based activities that are essential for building resilient connected local places, cohesive and connected communities and empowering people within communities to step up and play their part, and do all the amazing, wonderful things, many of which are represented in today's meeting, to build those resilient local places where we all want to live and work. Thank you for tuning in!

The sustainable food movement is gaining ground across South West Wales, with a raft of projects and initiatives underway. Transforming the way we produce and procure our food requires a whole system approach. In this discussion, hear from all four of South West Wales' local food partnerships, for an update on what's happening in Pembrokeshire, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire. From support for community growing, to fresh food vending machines, to the allocation of public land for public goods, there is plenty to feel positive about and much more that is needed. Thank you for tuning in!

Hear from a wide range of projects and organisations, about their work to support young people in our region. From employment skills to apprenticeships to life coaching, colleagues from across South West Wales shared their updates on initiatives to ensure young people in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire have the opportunity to flourish. This is part of a series of monthly conversations convened by 4theRegion to explore the opportunities that exist for people and businesses in South West Wales. Find out more and join 4theRegion: www.4theRegion.org.uk

4theRegion brought together people with an interest in construction, from Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, to share perspectives on the challenges faced by the sector, and the opportunities it presents for businesses and people in our region. This conversation is part of a series of cross-sector discussions convened monthly by 4theRegion, which is an alliance of businesses, community groups and other organisations based in South West Wales. Find out more on our website, www.4theRegion.org.uk

4theRegion convened an open discussion about the opportunities in South West Wales' creative economy - part of our series of monthly meetups to explore opportunities across different sectors in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. Listen in, as people, businesses and organisations share updates, announcements and perspectives on our creative sector!

Edward Morgan from Castell Howell Foods reflects on the real challenges for regional farmers, a sense of despondency among farming families, and the vital importance of supporting local farmers - especially given the vulnerability of our global food supply chains.  Ed also describes some of the more complex barriers to local food procurement by public bodies in Wales, and some chinks of light happening in the system - which are very positive, but not enough....   This conversation was recorded by 4theRegion as part of our Public Plate Procurement Learning Journey in partnership with Swansea & NPT PSBs and Bwyd Abertawe.

In the first of our Monthly Meetups in 2024, Dawn launches 4theRegion's Year of Opportunities, with a call for partners and organisations across South West Wales to share their opportunities through our inclusive cross-sector network. In this facilitated conversation, participants shared their thoughts about some of our region's diverse opportunities for people, businesses and communities to thrive. www.4theRegion.org.uk

It's time for all businesses to take seriously the need to reduce their carbon emissions - and that starts with measuring your footprint and tracking the change over time.  BIC Innovation has partnered with Greener Edge to offer a new commercial solution: Trac-C - a package of support and expertise to help organisations move forward in tackling scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.  This is clearly important from a climate perspective, but there are lots of other good reasons for businesses to get started (or continue) their decarbonisation journey in a meaningful way, as Huw Watkins explains in this interview with Dawn Lyle from 4theRegion.

This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. This episode features discussions focusing on the efforts of promoting food resilience in the region. Register to attend the Green Economy Conference here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/green-economy- conference-south-west-wales-tickets-710300928197 The speakers in the discussion are as follows: Abi Marriott - PLANED - Pembrokeshire Food Partnership Mary Duckett - Bwyd Abertawe Wendy Mackay - The Wendy House Project part of NPT Food Partnership Joanne Haines - Car Y Mor Augusta Lewis - Bwyd Sir Gar

This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy.  The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. This episode features discussions focusing on the efforts of promoting biodiversity and nature within the region. Register to attend the Green Economy Conference here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/green-economyconference-south-west-wales-tickets-710300928197 The speakers in the discussion are as follows: Rhianne Jones - Lead Specialist Advisor, Natural Resources Wales Huw Williams - Senior Technical Officer, Natural Resources Wales Rachel Carter - Local Places for Nature Officer, One Voice Wales James Moore - NPT Working with Nature project, UWTSD

Dawn Lyle speaks to Gary Walpole from CEIC (Circular Economy Innovation Communities) about the success of the project in inspiring behaviour change within public sector organisations in Wales. Now, businesses and third sector organisations can enrol in this game-changing training programme, which is co-hosted by Swansea & Cardiff Universities.

This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. This episode features discussions focusing on innovations in the green economy. Register to attend the Green Economy Conference here: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/green-economy-conference/   The speakers in the discussion are as follows: - Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference. - Peter Lord, Pembrokeshire Council - Chris Bailey, Swansea University SPECIFIC project - Gareth Davies, Swansea University - Huw Watkins, BIC Innovation

This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. The episode features discussions focusing on sustainable methods of transport such as rail, community transport, and innovations in the move to greener methods of transport. The speakers in the discussion are as follows: - Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference. - Rich Middleton, Wales Growth Manager, GWR - Emma Bingham - Community Transport Association - Rod Bowen, Development Officer at Dolen Teifi - Caroline Wilson - Green Dragon Bus - Robert Lloyd - Swansea Council, Community Transport

This discussion is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. The episode features discussions on related to materials, waste and the new Workplace Recycling Wales laws coming into effect next year. The speakers in the discussion are as follows: - Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference. - Andy Rees, Head of Waste Strategy for the Welsh Government - Andrew Wright, Commercial Director at Griffiths Group - Gareth Thomas, Head of Marketing at Griffiths Group - Owain Griffiths, Director at Circular Resource Specialists - Diane Thomas, Waste Strategy and Policy Officer for Carmarthenshire Council - Sean Gallagher, Managing Director at Cwm Environmental

In this roundtable discussion, we delve deep into the realm of sustainable energy in South West Wales, shedding light on the inspiring work of renewable champions in the region. Hosted jointly by Low Carbon Swansea Bay and 4theRegion, this episode brings together experts and advocates to explore both the opportunities and barriers in the path to a greener, more sustainable future for Wales. Short project presentations/updates included: Awel Aman Tawe Egni Co-op Gower Power Hiraeth Energy Afallen Marine Energy Wales Gwynt Glas Discover the innovative initiatives and projects that are transforming the energy landscape in South West Wales and learn about the individuals and organisations driving these changes. This event is part of a series of topical discussions leading up to the eagerly anticipated regional Green Economy Conference in November.

In this interview, Dawn Lyle discusses with Jane Davidson, Chair of the Net Zero 2035 Challenge Group for Wales, the ambitious project to accelerate Wales' Net Zero target from 2050 to 2035. Jane explains that the project, titled ‘Wales Net Zero Challenge, 2035', was initiated from an agreement between the Welsh Labour Government and Plaid Cymru in 2021. The group aims to provide independent advice on potential pathways to achieving net zero emissions by 2035 (bringing the date forward from 2050), considering the societal and economic impacts and how adverse effects can be mitigated. The project also looks at how costs and benefits can be shared fairly across Wales. The group is seeking evidence and insights on several key areas: how Wales can feed itself by 2035; meeting energy needs while phasing out fossil fuels; heating and building homes and workplaces by 2035; connecting people and places across Wales by 2035; and what education, jobs and work could look like across Wales by 2035. They are also focusing on the future of education and work in relation to a move away from a fossil fuel economy. Jane emphasises that the work of the group is underpinned by the latest academic evidence provided by the Wales Centre for Public Policy. She invites all interested parties to contribute their views and evidence towards the project by Christmas, with the aim of having a draft proposal ready for public consultation in the Spring of next year. The interview concludes on a hopeful note, with Jane highlighting the potential for Wales to lead the way not only in the UK but globally in terms of finding pragmatic and equitable solutions to achieve net zero. This conversation was recorded in September 2023, in the run up to the South West Wales Green Economy Conference (Nov 2023).

Bwyd Abertawe is Swansea's local food partnership, and is collaborating with 4theRegion and Castell Howell Foods to support an increase in the volume of veg grown on the Gower Peninsular and generally across the Swansea Bay area.  This project is part of a wide range of activities across South West Wales which seek to strengthen our local food supply chains and our regional horticultural sector. This conversation brought together: Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion Edward Morgan, Castell Howell Foods Lucy Hole, Secret Hospitality Group Ian Chriswick, Gower College Sarah Gould, Lantra Richard Bond, Food & Drink Wales   Supporting Local Producers: Lucy Hole emphasised Secret Hospitality's commitment to support local producers across Swansea Bay, highlighting their collaboration with Castell Howell. However, they acknowledged that the volume of produce this year has presented challenges, preventing them from fully supporting local producers. Richard Bond from the Food & Drink Wales project, brought a broader perspective to the discussion. The Food & Drink Wales project is responsible for promoting Welsh food and drink in Wales, the UK and internationally. Their vision is to create a strong and vibrant Welsh food and drink sector with a global reputation for excellence, having one of the most environmentally and socially responsible supply chains in the world. Ian Chriswick from Gower College shared insights from the GCS Green Hwb project. The Green Hwb project delivers qualifications in horticulture. Produce from the project will be used to go to local causes, with the first crop of the year supporting projects such as the Phoenix Centre and The Nelson Trust. This project demonstrates the potential of food production as a means of support for local initiatives. Sarah Gould, of Lantra (who run the Farming Connect project) added to the discussion with her industry expertise. The Farming Connect project supports Welsh farmers with business support and training. Andrew Stevens, a livestock farmer and the Champion for Rural Economy at Swansea Council, shared insights from a farming perspective. Challenges and Obstacles: Ed Morgan from Castell Howell led a discussion on the challenges faced by local producers and the wider food industry. He emphasised the globalisation of the food supply chain in recent decades, leaving communities vulnerable to supply disruptions. Food security has become a concern, particularly in light of recent environmental factors impacting food production and supply chains. Ed highlighted the need for a template or framework for engaging with growers and supporting them financially and operationally. The challenge, as identified, includes the timing of produce availability, weather disruptions, and land acquisition by renewable energy industries. The group discussed various strategies to address these obstacles, including: Engaging with Growers: Collaboratively engaging with growers to understand their capacity and requirements, and committing to support on factors like seed costs, staff expenses and machinery. Educational Engagement: Focusing on the educational sector by working with schools and colleges to bridge the gap and introduce young people to farming. Exploring the potential link between education and the industry to support catering students and foster a stronger connection between educational institutions, restaurants and local producers. Competing with Global Markets: Developing strategies to compete with growers in England and abroad by focusing on quality, value, and experience.  Logistics and Distribution: Recognising the importance of logistics and distribution for small growers, and exploring partnerships with distributors like Castell Howell. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the complex challenges facing local producers in Swansea Bay. However, there was an optimistic outlook on the potential for collaboration and support from various sectors to overcome these challenges. The group committed to further discussions and action plans to enhance the support for local producers and strengthen the regional food supply chain. 4theRegion is keen to hear from anyone who would like to be involved in this project, please contact zoe@4theRegion.org.uk Project updates will be published here: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/projects/gower-grown/ 

Partners from across South West Wales come together to discuss some new initiatives to support the development of green skills across a variety of sectors.   This podcast episode is part of a series of conversations focused on the region's green economy. The Green Economy Conference, happening in November, aims to bring together businesses and organizations to discuss the growth of the green economy in South West Wales. The episode features discussions on various projects and initiatives related to skills development in areas such as renewable energy, construction, digital sector, and more. The focus is on preparing young people for future green careers, raising awareness about the opportunities in the green economy, and bridging the skills gap in the industry. Collaboration and working together across the region are seen as crucial for success. The speakers in the discussion are as follows: Dawn Lyle, 4theRegion: Host of the conversation and representative of the Regional Green Economy Conference. Rob Holdcroft, Development Coordinator for the Regional Learning and Skills Partnership. Arwyn Williams & Jackie Mathias from Pembrokeshire College: Discusses projects related to renewable energy and skills development for young people. Bruce Fellows from Gower College, Swansea: Talks about initiatives in the construction and renewable energy sectors. Andrew Selby from Gower College, Swansea: Highlights the demand for upskilling in the renewable energy sector. Rachel Cook from University of Wales, Trinity St. David: Shares insights on skills development in construction and the use of virtual reality in education. Donna Griffiths from Bouygues UK: Discusses projects engaging with schools and young people in terms of future skills and enterprise. Sue Poole from Young Dragons: Talks about engaging young people in entrepreneurship and the use of artificial intelligence and virtual reality in education. This conversation was hosted by 4theRegion in July 2023.

Following the Green Recovery Conference on the 27th June, we brought colleagues together to ask the question: How can South West Wales lead the way in green construction and the decarbonisation of our buildings? The Green Recovery Conference was held in the Brangwyn Hall with over 160 businesses joining us to discuss a number of solutions to the challenges we face on the road to becoming a greener city. This event was organised around 8 Opportunity Areas, which hosted interactive discussions and provided ideas and solutions to key themes. SPECIFIC hosted the Buildings area and provided some insight into this key opportunity area.

In our new series, we'll be exploring the wider question of how we reshape our economy based on what really matters, and why we think attachment to place should be at the heart of how we think about this new economy.  Formerly known as Family Housing, Caredig are a nonprofit registered social landlord (RSL) based in Swansea. Caredig means ‘kind' in Welsh, and encapsulates their vision of putting people and communities at the heart of what they do. In this episode, Dawn speaks to Marcia Sinfield, Chief Executive of Caredig about their rebrand, what social value means to her and the value of local sourcing and working together.

In our new series, we'll be exploring the wider question of how we reshape our economy based on what really matters, and why we think attachment to place should be at the heart of how we think about this new economy.  We're interested in helping to create an economic system that is fit for the 21st century, one that counts more than money, more than GDP, more than profit.  So, what do we mean by social value - and how can we support organisations and communities to embrace social value as a new system of accounting for value?  We'll be talking to thoughtleaders and changemakers across our region and around the world, about credible alternatives to a global form of capitalism that extracts value and wellbeing from people, places and the planet.  Starting here in South West Wales, and looking outwards, join us on a learning journey to understand the new economy, and what's needed to create resilience for the future that's coming down the line. Talking points in this new series will include: Wellbeing Economics; Doughnut Economics; Attachment Economics; The Foundational Economy; The Wellbeing of Future Generations Act; Asset Based Community Development; Co-production, empowerment and collaboration; Changemakers and communities of purpose; Capitalist Realism; And changing perspectives on hope and politics. Hosted by Dawn Lyle & Zoe Antrobus from 4theRegion, www.4theregion.org.uk 

This week we're hearing from inspiring young people from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. The future of our region is in the hands of the younger generation, and we're interested in what motivates young people to get involved in changemaking projects and how we can amplify their voices and encourage them to become facilitators of positive change. We hear from Neath Port Talbot Youth Council member Lola, who has been involved in projects such as Sustainable Schools, which aims to reduce plastic in school canteens and a pilot project involving fruit trees within schools. We also hear from Swansea-based young people Jed, Elliot and Jake who have used their voice to successfully campaign for and fundraise a skatepark in Bishopston by using community collaboration to make their voice heard within the local area.

It's currently an exciting time to be in Swansea city centre with many developments taking place as part of massive investments, including the Swansea Bay City Deal. We spoke to a few of those involved the transformation of the city centre, including the digital arena, the restoration of the Albert Hall, new and existing community, maker and co-working spaces as well as schemes such as Swansea BID!

Tegryn Jones is the Chair of the Pembrokeshire  Public Services Board and Chief Executive at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority. We spoke to Tegryn about his involvement with the Pembrokeshire Public Services Board, how the PSB works to improve the longer term well-being of people and communities in Pembrokeshire and key opportunity areas for development across Pembrokeshire. Public Services Boards (PSBs) seek to bring members of public services, third sector and private sectors together in order to guide the process of delivering key elements of the Well being of Future Generations (Wales) Act and improve the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being of Wales. Find out more about Pembrokeshire Public Services Board: https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/public-services-board

Jayne Woodman set up The Menopause Team in 2019 to assist employers and employees in establishing significantly better menopause outcomes for women and organisations. With Menopausal women becoming one of the fastest growing demographic in the UK workforce, The Menopause Team provide workshops and strategies to help organisations become more resilient, understanding and supportive.  We spoke to Jayne about the importance of raising awareness, empowering women to thrive in the workplace and enabling employers and colleagues to better understand how to support menopausal employees.  The Menopause Team run awareness sessions, workshops, coaching and provide resources to empower employees and employers. You can find more information on their website: www.themenopauseteam.com

Sweet Pickings Swansea / Cyfoeth y Coed Abertawe is a community group tackling food poverty and waste by harvesting unpicked fruit (mainly apples) from trees around the Swansea area. Sweet Pickings have partnered with FareShare to collect and distribute the fruit to 24 organisations addressing food poverty, including Matt's Cafe, the East Side Food Bank and Unity in Diversity and have identified over 70 tree sites to harvest. We spoke to Anna Williams about the Sweet Pickings Swansea initiative, the rapid growth of the project and the process behind setting up and running a crowdfunding drive. Sweet Pickings Swansea is currently fundraising for equipment, insurance, publicity materials and more to ensure the project continues to grow and make great things happen in Swansea. Are you able to help Sweet Pickings' crowdfund? Any amount will be greatly appreciated as they continue to grow and make this dream into a reality. Sweet Pickings Crowdfund on SpaceHive Sweet Pickings Facebook Group

Purple Shoots Business Lending (“Purple Shoots”) is a not-for-profit micro finance organisation and a registered charity that have been helping people to start their own micro businesses for over six years. We spoke to founder Karen Davies, about the beginnings of Purple Shoots, the success stories and her passion for helping others and uncovering hidden entrepreneurs. Purple Shoots: https://purpleshoots.org/

Oriel Science is an exciting project that uses research from Swansea University to engage with the community and inspire people of all ages. Oriel Science had previously launched their first community-engagement project in September 2016 with a pop-up science exhibition, which welcomed over 16,000 members of the public during its 100 opening days. Now Oriel Science is bringing science to the community once again in their new venue on Castle Street, Swansea. In this episode, Professor Chris Allton, Director of Oriel Science shares the project's aspirations to inspire future generations and to make science accessible. Chris also takes us on a small tour of the exhibition, showcasing some of the fascinating displays and work from Swansea University! Oriel Science is open on Saturdays and Sundays and during Bank Holidays and School Holidays from 10am - 4pm. Oriel Science Website Book tickets to visit Oriel Science

With many great things happening in Swansea including the City Deal, the new digital arena and other major construction projects, it's the perfect time for the return of TEDxSwansea. TED is a nonprofit organisation devoted to 'Ideas Worth Spreading' with many independently run events across the world. We spoke to organiser Mark Davies about his ambitions to grow TEDxSwansea to become a flagship event where local talent will have a platform to inspire, educate and entertain. Mark aims to put Swansea on the map with TED and host inspiring talks that our region will be proud of.

Today's episode features an inspiring conversation with a friend and member of our alliance Louis Halton Davies, founder of Web Marketer, which is a Carmarthenshire-based digital marketing consultancy. Having graduated university in graphic design, Louis honed in on his passion for digital marketing, which led him to management of Visit Swansea Bay, taking the website from 100k annual users to over 300k by implementing his skills and enthusiasm for the region before becoming an entrepreneur and creating Web Marketer.  In this episode, hear how Louis came to set up his own business in South West Wales, what he's learned along the way, what challenges the pandemic provided and why he joined 4theRegion's mission to make our region flourish. Web Marketer 4theRegion

Dolen Teifi are a non-profit organisation and charity which aims to provide affordable and accessible transport to communities within Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion. We speak to Dolen Teifi's Development Officer, Rod Bowen about how they're helping people to reach essential community services, how the organisation operates and the importance of community-lead transport, particularly in rural areas.

In this Election Special bonus episode, we're bringing you a recording of the online hustings event hosted by the Wellbeing Economy Alliance for Wales. With the Senedd elections less than one month away, here's your opportunity to meet some of the candidates and hear what they have to say about their vision for Wales. In particular, do they really understand what we mean when we talk about a Wellbeing Economy? And are they committed to the 7 Wellbeing Goals of Wales' future generations act? Or do they still believe "economic growth" will solve all of Wales' problems? Listen in to find out! Co-chaired by Youth Climate Ambassadors Ellie Sanders and Caitlyn Williams, and facilitated by Dawn Lyle from 4theRegion, this hustings was organised by the Wellbeing Economy Alliance. We invited the top five parties from January's voting preferences poll: Labour, the Conservatives, Plaid Cymru, the Green Party and Abolish (with Abolish declining the invitation). Jeremy Miles, Labour Calum Davies, Conservative Luke Fletcher, Plaid Cymru Amelia Womack, Green Party Young people from the age of 16+ have the vote in Wales for the first time this year. We hope this discussion helps clarify what Wales' main political parties actually stand for, so you can vote in alignment with your own values in the upcoming Senedd elections. The Wellbeing Economy Alliance for Wales is part of the global Wellbeing Economy Alliance, a movement to promote an economy that serves the wellbeing of humanity within planetary limits, rather that the pursuit of 'growth' and 'productivity' at any cost. To find out more, join our monthly online meetings via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/138789000637

Today we speak to Ant Flanagan, director of Gower Power Co-op CIC. Gower Power is a community co-operative owned and controlled by its members. In Swansea alone, Gower Power have put over £1.5 million of renewable energy assets into community ownership across 3 projects and helped to establish over £2m in social impact funds for the benefit of the Swansea community. Gower Power are excited to announce a new partnership with Ecotricity to deliver more renewable power to those in the Swansea area. To find out more about this initiative, please attend our event on the 6th May 2021! Further details can be found on our Eventbrite page. Find the event here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/4theregion-18049840590 Gower Power: https://www.gowerpower.coop/

In this episode, we speak to Dave Kieft, group director of RD Group, which comprises EFT Consult, RDM Electrical & Mechanical Services and DRS Facilities Management. We're really pleased to have RD Group as members of 4theRegion and helping in our mission to make the region a more prosperous place. Dave shares his experience in using business as a platform to give back to the community, creating training opportunities, delivering sustainable development projects and partnering with exciting local initiatives such as Garrison Farm, which will deliver charity services and support for veterans. RDM Electrical: http://www.rdmelectrical.com/ DRS Facilities Management: http://www.drsfmservices.co.uk/ EFT Consult: http://www.eftconsult.co.uk/ Garrison Farm CIC: https://garrisonfarm.org/

This week we speak to Andy Middleton from TYF in St. Davids about the importance of not only building back better, but building back in a way that is fit for the future.   ___ Featuring Dawn Lyle - 4theRegion Andy Middleton - TYF, www.tyf.com

Green infrastructure is a key part in major developments across our region, including the Biophilic Living Swansea development, community gardens and other regeneration projects across the South West Wales Region. What is considered green infrastructure, what's planned for the region and how can green developments help businesses and communities to build back better?   Featuring: Dawn Lyle & Zoe Antrobus - 4theRegion Carwyn Davies - Hacer Developments Fran Rolfe - Natural Resources Wales Andrew Collins - Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council Kate McCabe - Pobl Housing Group

With lockdown restrictions slowly being eased in Wales, it's time to consider what this means for the reopening of the visitor economy and tourism sector. We spoke to Andrew Campbell, Chair of the Wales Tourism Alliance about his thoughts on the return of tourism in our region, what preparations businesses must make and the future of tourism and travel for Wales.

Dawn Lyle from 4theRegion speaks to Barry Liles OBE, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Skills and Lifelong Learning at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David about the transition to remote learning and teaching, accelerated by the pandemic and the importance of digital and employability skills and maintaining lifelong learning. Are you a learner who has been impacted by the switch to online learning? What opportunities and careers do you think will be available in the future? We hear Barry's perspective in this latest conversation from 4theRegion!

Dawn Lyle and Zoe Antrobus from 4theRegion talk to Puffin Produce, Bluestone Resort, Castell Howell, Pembrokeshire Eco Champions, Matts Cafe and WRAP about food waste in hospitality, retail and in our homes for Food Waste Action Week 2021. Food waste is a massive contributor to climate change - and over 70% of food waste comes from domestic kitchens - so we can all make a difference.  Do you peel your potatoes before making mash?  Do you know what you can make with the leftovers in your fridge?  Perspectives from across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot in this latest conversation from 4theRegion!

Biophilic Living Swansea is a mixed use development that includes affordable and shared ownership housing, as well as retail and commercial space. In this episode, Carwyn Davies, director of Hacer Developments and Andrew Nixon, director of Powell Dobson Architects share an engaging presentation about this innovative development. The vision for Biophilic Living Swansea is to enable reconnection with nature in the urban environment, and the creation of a cohesive community to tackle issues of social exclusion and loneliness in an innovative way. This project by Hacer Developments has been designed by Powell Dobson Architects in Swansea. The concept is the result of extensive collaborative working among a range of local organisations, including Swansea University, the Active Building Centre, Public Health Wales, Swansea Community Farm and Sero Homes Ltd. Discover more about Biophilic Living here: www.biophilicliving.co.uk The video shown during the presentation can be found here: www.biophilicliving.co.uk/about

We speak to Eifion Williams, CEO of Circular Economy Wales about current community projects such as the Community Fridge and Precious Plastics and the launch of Wales' Complementary Currency, the Celyn. Backed by the Welsh Government's Foundational Economy scheme and inspired by successful economic models in Sardinia and Switzerland, the Celyn is a complementary currency known as a mutual credit system that is exclusive to Wales. Precious Plastic is an open-source project which helps communities turn the plastic waste in its rivers, streets and beaches into everyday products. The Community Fridge is a public facing, non-means tested solution for sharing and distributing in date food. Find out more about the Celyn at: www.celyn.wales Discover how to get involved with Precious Plastic: www.preciousplastic.com/ For more on Circular Economy Wales' projects: https://circulareconomy.wales/

We need greener, cleaner, healthier and better connected travel and transport for South West Wales, for transport that meets the needs of businesses, serves communities, and improves well-being across the region.  In today's roundtable discussion, we are talking about future of transport in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea: What should the government be investing in, what could the local authorities be doing, and how can people, communities and businesses be part of the solution?  Join us to discuss all this and more at Moving Forward Together - our regional transport conference for South West Wales on 9th and 10th February 2021 - Register via Eventbrite   Round Table Guests: Christine Boston, Sustrans Jayne Cornelius, Swansea University, formerly SWWITCH Regional Travel Plan Co-ordinator Jeffrey Davies, DANSA bus service in Neath Port Talbot Mark Barry, Professor of Practice in Connectivity, Cardiff University Alan Kreppel, former chair, Traveline Cymru Andrew Davies, former chair of ABMU health board Tom Porter, Public Health Wales   Mary Sherwood, Fairer Future (poverty & equalities consultancy) Co-hosted by Dawn Lyle (4theRegion) and Phil McDonnell (Swansea Environmental Forum)   

Young people aged 16+ will be able to vote in Wales for the first time in the Senedd Elections this year. So we spoke to young people from across Wales about politics, what's important to them, and what they value most. We heard from a passionate and inspiring group of young people from a range of backgrounds, who shared their own opinions and talked about what they're already doing to make a difference - especially on climate and equalities. This will be essential listening for anyone that's interested in how to engage more young people in politics, and in how we can build a Wellbeing Economy here in Wales.

Collaboration and connection with all of the amazing organisations that are working across our region is a key theme at 4theRegion and we believe that the power of working together can benefit all. Another organisation focusing on collaborative power is the Rhwydwaith, a resilience network based across Pembrokeshire. Today, director Vicky Moller shares the impact the network has had across communities. Set up in May 2020, the Rhwydwaith was formed as a result of weekly collaborative meetings between community support groups across Pembrokeshire. As a result, the Rhwydwaith links local businesses, government and communities together in order to collaboratively work through present and future challenges in an inclusive and kind manner. Find the Rhwydwaith here: www.rhwydwaithcommunityresilience.simplesite.com

We're delighted that DVLA has come on board as a partner of our alliance. We speak to the DVLA's Senior Sustainability and Travel Services Manager, Rhian Thomas, about the organisations commitments to reducing carbon emissions, increasing on-site biodiversity, sustainable transport methods (such as electric vehicles) and the success of the DVLA's performance against the Greening Government Commitments. #BuildBackBetter

Next year in 2021, the Senedd Elections will mark the first time people aged 16 will be able to vote. That means in May, approximately 200,000 people will be voting for the first time. We need to consider what this means for election campaigns, manifestos and what this means for the future of wales. Today we're speaking to Bethany Roberts, an inspiring young woman and the Learner Voice Coordinator at Pembrokeshire College. Bethany has been passionate about getting involved in local projects and volunteering since the age of 11 and using her voice to ensure that young people are involved with and heard by decision makers in the region. #BuildBackBetter

As a region we need to do what we can to support start ups and entrepreneurs and encourage them to stay within South West Wales.  We speak to one of many entrepreneurs based in our region, creator of Dill delivery service and Swansea University student, Alex-Ioan Coldea. With the support of Swansea University and Young Business Dragons, Alex created Dill, a food ordering platform designed to cut queuing times at university catering venues. In this episode, Alex shares his entrepreneurial journey with us. We also hear from Kelly Jordan, Kath Penaluna and Kim Mamhende, who are part of the enterprise teams at Swansea University, University of Wales Trinity Saint David and The Centre for African Entrepreneurship respectively about the importance of fostering effective business sense, creativity and innovation. For those who are very young entrepreneurs, Young Business Dragons share the success of the Swansea Primary Enterprise Challenge which saw a successful children-led market in the city centre.   We're also pleased to share the launch of our new project; 4theRegion has teamed up with Swansea University's School of Management to create Starting Up in the Region.   Find out more: www.4theregion.org.uk/4theregion-forms-partnership-ready-to-help-new-businesses-make-the-right-connections