Where Health, Climate and Ambition meet: insights from the Net Positive Centre's first annual meeting

Earlier this summer, the Net Positive Centre for Health and Climate Solutions hosted its very first Annual Meeting — a landmark moment that brought together researchers and collaborators committed to shaping a healthier, more sustainable future.

Now, we’re proud to share a short film capturing some of the ideas, energy, and inspiration that emerged from the day.

A Shared Vision for Climate, Environment, and Health

The film features voices from across our partners, all reflecting on what “net positive” means to them — and why this Centre’s approach is both timely and necessary.

For Professor Rosie Hails of the National Trust, the Net Positive Centre is about focusing on the crucial intersection between climate, environment, and health. As she puts it:

“At the National Trust, we’re deeply involved in making environmental interventions that benefit people, nature, and the climate. The Centre brings a real opportunity to take this further — to think holistically about impact.”

Dr Liz O’Brien from Forest Research highlighted the power of diversity and collaboration:

“What excites me most is the range of disciplines and organizations coming together to think creatively about innovative solutions. It’s about sparking new conversations that haven’t happened in quite this way before — conversations that can lead to real change.”

Co-Benefits and Ground-Up Impact

The concept of co-benefits — solutions that serve both environmental and health outcomes — was a strong theme throughout the Away Day and the film.

Professor Rosa Barciela from the Met Office explained:

“Net positive means a real opportunity to make a dent — to look at how we can drive positive impact at local, regional, and national levels. And to do it from the ground up: working with communities, businesses, and policymakers.”

Meanwhile, Centre Director Professor Tim Taylor from the University of Exeter reflected on how the Centre moves beyond traditional targets like net zero:

“Reducing greenhouse gases has long been the focus, but we now know that doesn’t always lead to better outcomes for health or the environment. The Net Positive Centre is about building solutions that do both — and putting them into practice.”

A Foundation for Action

The annual Meeting was more than just a meeting — it was a moment of alignment and momentum-building. The film captures not just the ideas, but the sense of purpose shared by all involved. By creating a space for connection across disciplines and sectors, the Centre is laying the foundations for joined-up, impactful work that benefits people, communities, and the planet.

As we move forward, these conversations — and the partnerships they spark — will be at the heart of everything the Net Positive Centre stands for.

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🎬 Watch the film here