Queensland in Transition: Climate Realities, Shared Futures - AlterCOP 30 Day 1

As Australia prepares to potentially host COP31, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to open up climate dialogue to all and show that local actions to mitigate and adapt to climate change are already happening across different communities. 

Running alongside the United Nations (UN) COP30 agenda, the four-day event will foster grassroots ownership of global climate goals while amplifying local and regional engagement across Australia. 

Learn more about AlterCOP 30 Australia: www.altercop.com/australia

Join us in Brisbane for Day 1 of AlterCOP 30 Australia – Climate Change, Social Impact & Resilience

Day 1 explores the intersection of climate science, equity, and solutions, focusing on the following key areas:

• Understanding Climate Science and Debunking Myths: Emphasising the urgency of planetary boundaries understanding and tackling misinformation to support informed action.

• Decarbonising Fossil Fuel Industries: Outlining pathways for high-emission sectors to cut carbon through innovation, policy, and investment.

• Renewable Energy’s Opportunities and Challenges: Exploring the economic, technological, and social impacts of the energy transition, while ensuring responsible resource use and equity.

• Balancing Energy Security with Climate Action: Addressing how to maintain reliable, affordable energy while accelerating decarbonisation efforts.

• Mobilising Communities and Grassroots Action
  Empowering public engagement and citizen-led initiatives to promote energy conservation and climate resilience.

Queensland in Transition: Climate Realities, Shared Futures

This afternoon & evening session takes you inside Queensland’s transition, featuring thought-provoking keynotes, an interactive panel discussion, and a networking event.

We’ll explore how Australia and the region are approaching decarbonisation — not just why we must act, but how we can make it happen. Together, we’ll shine a light on the opportunities, challenges, and innovations driving the energy transition, and examine what it means for communities, climate justice, and resilience in the face of accelerating impacts.

Agenda

• Welcome to Country - Baringa Barambah Meeanjinu, Turrbal Dippil

• Acknowledgment of Emotions - Christie Wilson, Psychology For a Safe Climate

• Why an AlterCOP - Surprise Guest Speaker

• Summary of real COP discussions - Audrey Barucchi, People For Nature

• Speech by Guest of Honour - Gregory Andrews "Flipping the Frame: A First Nations Vision for Caring for Country in 2050"

Drawing on his lived experience as a D’harawal man, and his extensive work with Traditional Custodians across Australia in caring for Country, Gregory Andrews reimagines climate resilience and social equity through a First Nations lens. His address will explore how Indigenous caring for Country offers powerful pathways for navigating climate change, debunking dominant narratives, and inspiring long-term, community-driven solutions grounded in respect, responsibility, and regeneration.

• Panel: Decarbonisation – It’s Not Just Why, But How That Matters

Moderated by Dr Liz Young, Research Director, Queensland Decarbonisation Hub, Centre for Policy Futures with panelists Franziska Curran (Lecturer The University of Queensland Net Zero Pathways for Business), Gregory Andrews (Managing Director Lyrebird Dreaming), Callum Smith (QUT student), Audrey Barucchi (CEO & Co-Founder People For Nature), and a couple of Special Guests to be revealed on the day.

• Refreshments & Networking – curated by Nick Czeperko, Climate Crew

Enjoy delicious vegetarian food while connecting with fellow changemakers. Drinks available via Sirmixalot.

• Spotlight: Celeste Schubiger, Engagement Manager (QLD), OzHarvest

Celeste will briefly share how OzHarvest’s food rescue model tackles both food insecurity and climate change, highlighting the powerful intersection of food waste, community care, and carbon reduction.

Who should attend

Professionals and practitioners working across climate justice, just transition, climate action, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), social sustainability, social work, and broader sustainability fields — including those from industry, government, academia, and community sectors.

For any questions or support:

Audrey Barucchi | a.barucchi@peoplefornature.org.au | 0406 683 018

About People For Nature

People For Nature is a volunteer-powered environmental charity empowering communities through climate and biodiversity education, citizen conservation, and science. We believe that when Australians understand and connect with nature, they’re more likely to protect it — safeguarding our climate, ecosystems, and well-being. Your tax-deductible donation helps us bring initiatives like AlterCOP30 to life and inspire real change for nature. https://www.peoplefornature.org.au/donate