The first in a new series of free debates examining ways of improving the
sustainability of regional buildings and improving the lives of communities gets
underway next month.

Organised by the architecture centre for the North East, Northern Architecture,
the initial event is being held on 12 November at Newcastle Civic Centre and
will look at sustainable cities.

It is the first of five over the next five months that will raise the level of
debate about how the North East should respond to climate change and increasing
pressure on resources, whilst constructing and maintaining long-lasting
buildings and places.

Latest figures suggest that 50% of all the UK's carbon emissions are generated
by buildings and structures, while the building design and construction industry
creates a third of all waste.

Each event will feature a panel of experts from within and outside the region
talking about the many complex sustainability issues that concern regional
architects, engineers, planners, developers, policy makers and others.

The first one kicks off with a panel of experts from design and business
consultancy firm Arup, urban planning and design practice Urban Initiatives and
UK's leading sustainable transport charity, Sustrans looking at ways of creating
long-lasting and eco-friendly neighbourhoods featuring carbon free buildings and
energy efficient systems.

They will also discuss how these impact on people's lives and the first time
house buyers market, and propose guidelines for planners and other professionals
trying to create more sustainable communities and cities.

The full programme is:
· 12 November, Newcastle - Sustainable cities
· 11 December, Durham - Sustainable buildings
· 16 January, Sunderland - Sustainable communities
· 12 February, Middlesbrough - Sustainable resources
· 18 March, Gateshead - Sustainable futures

All events 6 - 8 pm. Admission free but booking required. Call 0191 260 2191 or
visit www.northernarchitecture.com/events