Tuesday 21st July 2020
Every day brings disturbing new stories and fresh evidence of the impact that climate change is having on the world we inhabit. Climate scientists have been highlighting the dangers for decades, but it is the rise of the Greta Thunberg generation that has finally brought the issues to the forefront for the media and politicians. And the narrative has changed – it is no longer whether man-made carbon emissions are responsible, but what should we do to address what is now widely acknowledged as a climate emergency.
Climate science is complex and does not deliver the certainties requested by politicians. Yet the precautionary principle dictates that we must act, and we must act urgently and decisively. Who should take the lead – individuals, business or government? Should our responses focus on reducing carbon emissions or coping with their climatic consequences?
Mike’s presentation will explore the many issues raised by the climate debate and how humanity should respond in order to leave a liveable world to future generations.
Mike Landy
Following a chemistry degree from Bristol University, Mike spent five years with the British Antarctic Survey as a glaciologist, working on the continent’s climate and pollution history. After four years in the aluminium and chemicals industry he took an MSc in Energy Studies and spent the remainder of his career working on the energy sector’s transition to low carbon. Most of that time was in support of government renewable energy and energy efficiency programmes, based at Harwell with the UKAEA and then AEA Technology. The last five years of his career were with renewable energy trade associations in London, focusing on achieving a supportive policy framework for renewable energy technologies, in particular solar energy. Since retiring in 2016, Mike has closely followed the climate debate and indulged his love of the great outdoors.