TEDxSaltLakeCity is returning on September 22, 2025, this time with a uniquely important focus—highlighting innovative, local solutions to address climate change. Event organizers Joanne Gallagher and Jennafer Martin spoke about this year’s event, which has gained national recognition as Salt Lake City was selected as one of only two American cities, along with Baton Rouge, to host a TED Countdown anchor event.
By: Mark Robertson
April 10, 2025 9:49 pm
Published by: Jeremy S.
US Insider: https://usinsider.com/tedxsaltlakecity-to-highlight-local-climate-action-at-major-september-event/
TEDxSaltLakeCity is returning on September 22, 2025, this time with a uniquely important focus—highlighting innovative, local solutions to address climate change. Event organizers Joanne Gallagher and Jennafer Martin spoke about this year’s event, which has gained national recognition as Salt Lake City was selected as one of only two American cities, along with Baton Rouge, to host a TED Countdown anchor event.
The TED Countdown initiative is a major global project designed specifically to encourage practical and community-driven actions on climate and sustainability. TED’s selection of Salt Lake City underscores the city’s growing reputation as a hub for climate innovation and its commitment to meaningful environmental solutions.
Addressing Climate Challenges Right Here in Utah
The theme of TEDxSaltLakeCity 2025 centers squarely on climate change—examining how local communities can create innovative solutions to protect and preserve the environment. Organizer Joanne Gallagher highlighted the city’s unique position in tackling these challenges.
“Salt Lake City is experiencing significant growth in population and industry,” Gallagher explained. “At the same time, we have these incredible natural landscapes that draw people from all over the world. The balance between development, conservation, agriculture, clean energy, and recreation makes our area well-positioned to lead on climate solutions.”
Gallagher emphasized the importance of expanding people’s understanding of what climate change entails. While air pollution and global warming are frequently discussed, TEDxSaltLakeCity will also explore climate issues through diverse perspectives, including agriculture, food systems, energy transitions, sustainable transport, materials management, and nature conservation.
A Proud 13-Year Tradition in Salt Lake City
This year marks the 13th TEDxSaltLakeCity event, highlighting a proud tradition of showcasing compelling local ideas. Over the years, volunteers from various backgrounds have organized the event, bringing together a range of perspectives and insights reflective of Salt Lake City’s vibrant community.
For the 2025 event, the TEDx organization itself approached Salt Lake City organizers, nominating them to become a Countdown anchor event. Gallagher noted that the entire volunteer committee eagerly embraced this unique opportunity.
“We were honored by TED’s recognition and immediately saw how powerful this could be,” Gallagher said. “Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing our community and the world, and this event gives us a chance to put local solutions and ideas on a global stage.”
Speaker Development: Going Beyond the Stage
One of TEDxSaltLakeCity’s most distinguishing features is its rigorous speaker preparation program. TEDx events are famous worldwide for their highly polished presentations, but Gallagher emphasized the extensive behind-the-scenes coaching that goes into every single talk.
“Our speaker coaches invest significant time working closely with each speaker,” Gallagher explained. “They guide them through everything—from refining their message to enhancing their presentation skills, improving diction, stage presence, and memorization techniques. The preparation is truly transformative.”
Gallagher added that this meticulous preparation process helps everyday people become captivating, professional-caliber speakers. This intensive training not only raises the quality of each talk but ensures speakers deliver powerful messages that deeply resonate with the audience, leaving lasting impacts.
Community Engagement: Everyone Has a Role
While the TEDx speakers often take center stage, TEDxSaltLakeCity organizers stressed that the event’s success depends equally on community involvement. Gallagher underscored how essential local support has been over the past decade, praising sponsors, volunteers, coaches, and the wider community.
“TEDxSaltLakeCity thrives because of our community’s collaborative spirit,” Gallagher said. “It’s an event driven by volunteers who passionately believe in sharing ideas worth spreading. Our sponsors make it financially possible, our volunteers ensure it runs smoothly, and our community attends because they value innovation.”
Gallagher explained that organizers strive to create a space that encourages genuine dialogue and inspires attendees to take action based on ideas they hear. TEDxSaltLakeCity aims to go beyond awareness, focusing instead on empowering the community with practical tools and inspiration to address climate challenges collectively.
A Catalyst for Local Action and Global Inspiration
Ultimately, the organizers of TEDxSaltLakeCity want attendees—both local and global—to leave the event inspired, informed, and motivated to make a real difference. They hope to ignite a dialogue about practical climate solutions, bridging gaps between awareness, innovation, and action.
“Climate change affects everyone, and everyone has a role to play,” Gallagher noted. “This event is about presenting ideas that spark immediate local actions while also inspiring global conversations. We want attendees to walk away feeling like they understand the climate crisis better, knowing there are innovative solutions available, and believing that they can contribute to those solutions.”
With Salt Lake City being a focal point of the TED Countdown initiative, TEDxSaltLakeCity will provide a substantial platform for local ideas with global implications. Gallagher hopes the event demonstrates just how powerful community collaboration can be when addressing major challenges such as climate change.
“Climate change isn’t something abstract or distant,” Gallagher concluded. “It’s real, it’s local, and it’s something we can tackle together right here in Salt Lake City.”
TEDxSaltLakeCity takes place on September 22, 2025.
For more information, event updates, or ticketing details, visit the official TEDxSaltLakeCity event page.