Turning the Tide: From Pollution to Possibility

What happens when a routine water test uncovers something much bigger? This talk follows the discovery of extreme E. coli levels in the Lymington River, leading to the revelation of a sewage outfall discharging for decades. Beyond the science, it’s a story of persistence—how data, community action and social media challenged denial and brought the issue to light. Discover how this investigation sparked wider water monitoring efforts, and what it reveals about the power of people, science and asking difficult questions.

Swap passive listening for hands-on thinking in this interactive session using LEGO to explore how we can respond to climate and biodiversity challenges in our everyday spaces. Working in small groups, you’ll build, share ideas and experiment with simple changes that could make a real difference in gardens, streets and local areas. Relaxed, social and accessible, this isn’t a traditional talk—it’s a chance to get creative, think differently and leave with practical, realistic actions you can try yourself.