Essex business leaders urged to confront growing climate risks
October 26, 2026 | 
Gemma
Mosaic, along with Colchester Institute, is urging business leaders across Essex to consider how prepared their organisations are for the growing risks of climate change at a special screening of a nationally acclaimed film in Colchester.
The People’s Emergency Briefing will be shown on November 18 at Colchester Institute’s newly refurbished theatre, the nationwide campaign shares the latest scientific evidence on climate change and nature loss to communities and organisations across the UK.
The screening will examine the consequences of climate change and biodiversity loss for the economy, food security, health, national security and everyday life.
A Q&A panel discussion with Essex business leaders will follow the screening, giving attendees an opportunity to consider what the findings mean locally and how businesses and organisations can respond.
Gary Horne MBE, Deputy Chief Executive of Colchester Institute, will also share how the college has cut its carbon emissions by more than half in six years.
Mr Horne said: “Climate change affects us all, but there are important questions that every business leader needs to be asking about how it could affect their organisation.
“Whether it’s extreme weather disrupting operations, rising costs or the impact on employees and customers, businesses need to understand the risks and think seriously about how they prepare.
“We want to bring people together, share the evidence and encourage a constructive conversation about what we can do here in Essex. As an education provider working closely with employers across the region, we believe we have an important role to play in helping businesses understand and respond to these challenges.”
Businesses will be encouraged to consider continuity planning, infrastructure, insurance, energy, changing customer expectations and the ability to withstand unexpected disruption.
Gemma Rawlinson, Managing Director of Colchester-based Mosaic, said: “If your business or a key supplier was affected by extreme weather, how would your organisation cope?
“This event is an opportunity for businesses to learn from each other, whether they are already doing valuable work to become more sustainable or are just starting out.”
Since the film’s national release in April, screenings have taken place in local communities across Britain. Presented by broadcaster and environmentalist Chris Packham, it also features businesswoman Deborah Meaden and reactions from people across the country.
The free event is open to business leaders and other interested organisations. For more information and to reserve a place, visit https://www.tickettailor.com/events/colchesterinstitute/2412838.