The IPCC 5th Assessment Report approved for release by UN member states 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 that may trigger rapid, irreversible and catastrophic change. New evidence suggests this may now be happening.

Many scientists are advising that 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 not sufficiently implemented them. Can leadership come from the political and corporate incumbency? Or will greater pressure from the community be needed? In this regard particular leadership from informed professions such as engineers, scientists, and from the investor community will be essential.

Ian Dunlop will put forward the case for emergency action on climate change with a focus on the link between energy and climate risk. Neil Greet will lay out transition strategies to address the risks associated with climate change and discuss the transition implications. Energy security and building resilience by reforming the grid, addressing transport energy and future proofing our cities. A panel discussion will then follow, dealing with current progress and plans. This is an area in which engineers should be leading the way: Are we doing enough? What more can we do?

Presenters:

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.

Neil Greet

Neil is the owner of the consultancy Collaborative Outcomes which provides strategic advice on resiliency and humanitarian action to Federal and State Government agencies, Industry and non-government organisations. He is the co-author of the Engineers Australia Report “Energy Security for Australia: Crafting a comprehensive energy security policy”. Neil also served in the Australia Defence Force with operational service in Iraq and Timor where he led projects in several remote indigenous communities and played a key role in Defence’s response to Victoria’s 2009 ‘Black Saturday’ disaster. Neil is a civil engineer and was the 2015 President of Engineers Australia Canberra Division.

Registration

EA and SENG Members: $15 (inc GST)
Non-Members: $45 (inc GST)

For further information and to register, please see the EA event page.

You will need to log into the EA website to register. EA and SENG members will need their existing membership number and myPortal password. Non-members can create an account and obtain an EA ID that can then be used for all future event registrations. Telephone member services on 1300 653 113 for more information or assistance.

The event flier can be downloaded here.