Net Zero in Peril? The case for a new low carbon social contract in the UK

*Note:If you are not a member of staff at the University of Strathclyde, please select the ticket option “Non-staff of the University of Strathclyde.” Please note that non-staff attendees may participate virtually only.

*Photography & Marketing Please note that photos may be taken during this event and could be used for marketing and promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to the use of your image in such materials. If you do not wish to appear in any photos, kindly let us know in advance or inform a member of the team during the event.

Join Us for the latest of the Strathclyde Institute for Sustainable Communities (SISC) seminar series!

This event is the latest in our seminar series, which brings together researchers, practitioners and community leaders to explore bold ideas for building more inclusive, resilient and sustainable communities.

We’re excited to host a thought-provoking session featuring Donal rown. Donal is a Research Fellow at SPRU, University of Sussex, UKRI Future Leadership Fellow and serves as Sustainability Director at the low‑carbon consultancy Sustainable Design Collective. A specialist in sustainable housing, energy systems and energy demand, he has delivered policy consultancy on retrofit and renewable energy for the Welsh Government and the UK Labour Party.

🗣 Talk Title: Net Zero in Peril? The case for a new low carbon social contract in the UK

Abstract

Net Zero represents an opportunity to regenerate our communities; reduce energy, housing, and transport costs; and build social cohesion and greater prosperity. However, most people in the UK have felt their living standards worsen for over a decade. Far right parties are capitalising on this discontent, and are blaming decarbonisation and broader progressive agendas for this malaise. The mainstream low carbon policy regime is failing to address the material concerns of low- and middle-income communities, through an over reliance on private ownership, market mechanisms, and individual choice as the driver of change. I will argue that, without a course correction, net-zero, and the decarbonisation agenda is in existential peril in western nations like the UK. This new strategy must overcome shibboleths surrounding public and community ownership, and introduce progressive universalist principles in the provision of energy, housing and transport - a new ‘low carbon social contract’. Implementing this strategy will require a radical departure from the macro-economic and fiscal consensus which has prevailed in the UK since the late 1970s

🕒 Time: 12:30–13:30

The room will be open from 12:00 to 14:00 to allow for attendees who would like to bring their own lunch / tea and coffee and for informal networking before and after the seminar (12:00-12:30 and 13:30-14:00).

📍 Location: Level 8, StrathUnion, University of Strathclyde

Directions:

• Enter the Teaching and Learning building entrance where Richmond Street and North Portland Street meet (https://maps.app.goo.gl/BihCKkmhcVXv44f39).

• Walk directly forward and take the lift to Level 8.

• There will be signs to enter the room as you exit the lift. If in doubt, ring the office buzzer and ask for help.

For online attendees, a link will be sent with details on how to join the event remotely.

🗓 Upcoming Seminar Dates (also held in StathUnion from 12:00-14:00) can be found here.

If you have any queries please contact [email protected].

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Host or Publisher Strathclyde Institute for Sustainable Communities