Newry Chamber Launches Inaugural – Greater Newry Sustainability Conference & Expo

Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade has launched the inaugural Greater Newry Sustainability Conference & Expo which will be held on Thursday 28th May in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.

Titled “Building a Sustainable Future & the Green Economy,” this half day Conference and Expo are supported by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Kinecx Energy, AIB, Re Gen, and NIE Networks. The event will explore the challenges and opportunities facing the business community across the Greater Newry Area, with a strong focus on supporting sustainable economic growth

The Conference & Expo will be moderated by Newry’s own, Broadcaster & Journalist, Dearbhail McDonald and delegates will hear from expert keynote speakers and panellists across key areas including:

• The Future of Recycling in Northern Ireland
• Delivering a Lower Carbon Energy Future for Greater Newry
• Energy Transition: Renewable Electricity & Decarbonisation
• Green Credentials: ESG, Sustainable Finance, Infrastructure & Construction

This inaugural event will provide a welcoming environment for networking and discussion, featuring breakout areas, exhibition stands, and roundtable conversations focused on the sustainability challenges and opportunities facing local businesses. It will also highlight the significant potential to position Greater Newry as a Green Economy Hub on the island of Ireland.

While sustainability can seem complex, the conference will show how, with the right approach, it can drive growth, improve efficiency, strengthen resilience, and create competitive advantage. Delegates will gain practical insights into regulatory compliance, energy security, risk reduction, carbon reduction, and managing rising business costs.

With recent volatility in global energy markets, the event will also explore how green energy and renewables can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support long term energy security.

The conference will feature expert speakers, panel discussions, interactive roundtables, and exhibitions from organisations supporting businesses on their sustainability journey.

The full programme will be announced shortly. Attendance is free for Newry Chamber members and £50 + VAT for non-members. Book your place via www.newrychamber.

Conor Patterson, President, Newry Chamber said: 

“Newry Chamber is delighted to host this inaugural Sustainability Conference and we are looking forward to an informative and positive solution-focused event where all the key players involved in building a sustainable future and a strong green economy across our island can come together and share ideas that ultimately protect our planet, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and provide cost-effective sustainable solutions to growing our economy.”

“The event will also focus on the need for our region to embrace and develop the Green Economy and will hear from businesses and organisations that are playing an innovative and pivotal role in driving and growing this sector, creating jobs in industries that help us lower our carbon footprint, reduce energy costs and support increased productivity.”

“We look forward to welcoming all local businesses to what promises to be an excellent event so that we as a business community learn as much as we can about what assistance, supports and solutions are available to making all of our businesses more sustainable.”

Welcoming the event and highlighting the importance of collaboration at a council level, Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said:

“The Council is delighted to support Newry Chamber with its Sustainability Conference. We are keen to work with and support our local businesses and residents with the challenges of climate change, energy and waste issues, and the Conference will provide an excellent forum to discuss these openly and work together on sustainable solutions.”

Speaking on Kinecx Energy’s continued investment in the region and the importance of energy security, Niall Martindale, CEO of Kinecx Energy, added:

“Kinecx Energy is proud to support the inaugural Greater Newry Sustainability Conference & Expo, which will bring together businesses to explore practical, forward-looking solutions for a greener economy.

We have been investing in Newry since our formation in 2005, and as a gas network operator, we recognise the critical role energy security and decarbonisation play in supporting economic growth.

This event provides an important platform to share knowledge and help local businesses navigate the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Greater Newry and beyond.”