Looking back at FutureScape 2017

Over 2000 visitors and almost 200 exhibitors attended FutureScape in 2017, making it the biggest FutureScape event to date. As we prepare for FutureScape 2018, here’s a recap of so,e of the seminars that made last year so great…

The future of the industry

In a series of three seminars, we looked to the future of certain aspects of the industry. The Future of Arboriculture debated the role trees play in trapping pollution and also how emotions can be used to inform tree value. Panellists touched on the topic of training of certification as well as the place of women in arboriculture.

New this year was a focus on The Future of Grounds Maintenance. Representatives from some of the leading grounds maintenance operations across the UK made up the panel. They discussed whether the current business model is broken, and whether the size of the business is important. Panellists Matt O’Conner of John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance, Tim Howell of Mitie Landscapes, Dr Marcus Watson of Ground Control, Simon Jacob of Gavin Jones, Mike Brunskill of Glendale and Patrick Philips of idverde UK also touched on biodiversity, staffing and apprenticeships.

Industry experts

Throughout the day, there were a number of seminars from industry experts. This included Jonathan Wild of Pictorial Meadows who coined the term ‘Meadowology’ for his presentation on New Ways of Designing with Meadows. He explained the three elements of the design process; succession, balance of species, and creating an artistic look.

Brand new to FutureScape in 2017 was The Craft is in the Commercial. This seminar discussed the buoyancy of the market and the current trends and challenges of commercial landscaping. Karen Sawyer of Livingreen Design hosted Balconies and Roof Terraces, focusing on how to overcome problems including weight issues.

Bigger and better

FutureScape 2018 will be bigger and better than ever before. Visitors will see the return of previous favourite seminars, as well as the addition of new thought-provoking panels. Keep an eye on our Twitter an Instagram to be the first to hear about this year’s seminars and speakers. Booking will be available soon!