Join Engineers Australia’s ‘Big conversation' on the huge risks that climate change poses for our, social, financial and energy systems. These risks are deadly serious, but there are amazing opportunities to be achieved through an urgent re-framing of our economy. Ian Dunlop, a global leader in advising on these risks, will be our eminent speaker followed by Q&A panel to discuss the opportunities.
In the lead-up to the Paris Climate Change negotiations last December, much new scientific material was published, ranging from the IPCC 5th Assessment Report, to major reviews by various Academies of Science, the military, as well as multiple scientific papers.
While the IPCC Report is very important, and is the basis for much global policy making, it is an inherently conservative document. In particular, it mentions, but does not quantify, the “tipping point” risks of the climate system. Scientists have long been concerned about these non-linear feedback mechanisms which may trigger rapid, irreversible and catastrophic change.
New evidence suggests this may now be happening!
If we wish to avoid catastrophic outcomes we must take emergency action now to halt new fossil-fuel investment, and rapidly wean ourselves off established fossil-fuel use. We have solutions, but thus far have lacked the will to implement them. Leadership is unlikely to come from the political and corporate incumbency without great pressure being brought to bear by the community, and in particular leadership from informed professions such as engineers, scientists, and investors.
Eminent Speaker, Ian Dunlop
Ian is formerly a senior oil, gas and coal executive, chair of the Australian Coal Association and CEO of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
He chaired the Australian Coal Associations in 1987-88. From 1998- 2000 he chaired the Australian Greenhouse Office Experts Group on Emissions Trading which developed the first emissions trading system design for Australia. From 1997 to 2001 he was CEO of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Ian has a particular interest in the interaction of corporate governance, corporate responsibility and sustainability.
Q&A Panel
A Q&A panel will be follow Ian on this critical topic where engineers are challenged each day to ensure they are working towards a sustainable future.
The panel will be moderated by Adj. Prof David Hood AM.
Panellists include:
- Ian Dunlop
- Prof Cynthia Mitchell FIEAust | Institute for Sustainable Futures
- Tina Perinotto | The Fifth Estate
- Graham Davies MIEAust CPEng NER | Chair of Sustainable Engineering Society
Download the flyer.
View and listen to the presentations on YouTube.