Autism-friendly initiative to help make major Mayo climate conference accessible to all
Ballina Autism Friendly will help ensure autistic and disabled people can fully participate in major international event in Mayo
Ballina Autism Friendly Town is set to play a key role in making the upcoming Mary Robinson 2026 Climate and Nature Conference more accessible and inclusive for autistic people.
The conference, which will be hosted by the Mary Robinson Centre, is expected to bring together national and international experts, policymakers, activists and community leaders to discuss climate action, biodiversity and sustainability.
The initiative will see Ballina Autism Friendly Town work alongside conference organisers to reduce barriers to participation and ensure accessibility is embedded throughout the event experience.
As an AsIAm accredited Autism Friendly Town, Ballina has been recognised nationally for its efforts to create a more inclusive community. Organisers say the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that important public events are welcoming and accessible to all.
Ballina Autism Friendly Town said its involvement is focused on supporting autistic and disabled attendees so they can fully engage with discussions on climate, nature and social justice.
The partnership also reflects the values long championed by former President Mary Robinson, including equality, fairness and inclusion.
Organisers believe the initiative highlights the growing recognition that sustainability and accessibility must go hand in hand.
“Accessible events strengthen communities, and making the 2026 Climate and Nature Conference more accessible will ensure disabled people are included in important local, national and global conversations,” the group said.
The collaboration is being viewed as another milestone in Ballina’s efforts to build an inclusive town where barriers to participation are actively identified and removed.
Tickets for the Mary Robinson 2026 Climate and Nature Conference are now available, with further details accessible through the Mary Robinson Centre.