Events

In the context of increasing political attacks on the UK’s net zero target and sharp party divides over climate change, this half-day conference, organised by the PAIS Environmental Politics ClusterLink opens in a new window, will provide a deep dive into climate politics in the UK.

In 2019 a Conservative government implemented a target for the UK to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 without any objections from MPs. By 2025, the Conservative Party (alongside Reform UK) were campaigning to scrap the target. The shattering of the UK’s political consensus on climate change is part of a broader international ‘vibe shift’ on the issue.

Across two expert-led sessions we will debate why the politics of climate change have become so divisive in recent years in the UK and how the narrative surrounding this issue could be changed.

The second panel session will feature a series of presentations on ideas to help shift the narrative on the issue.

Sign up for the event here.

Find out more about climate change activity in PAISLink opens in a new window.

Find out more about the Politics of Climate Change MALink opens in a new window.

Panel 1 - UK Climate Change Politics - Where did it all go wrong?

This panel will consider what we mean when we say that climate change has become more divisive in the UK and why this has happened.

Chair: Dr Madeleine Fagan - University of Warwick

Speakers:

Helena Bennett - European Climate Foundation

Professor Matthew Lockwood - University of Sussex

Dr Mitya Pearson - University of Warwick

Clare Wightman - Grapevine Coventry and Warwickshire

Panel 2 - UK Climate Change Policy - Shifting the narrative

This panel session will feature a series of presentations on ideas for new policies and approaches which could be implemented within the UK to help tackle climate change and shift the narrative on the issue.

Chair: Professor Caroline Kuzemko - University of Warwick

Speakers:

Joel Silver - Hope for the Future

Dr Stephen Hall - University of York

Minerva Anderson - Essex County Council

Beth Barker - Aldersgate Group

Ali Candlin - Ember Energy

Schedule:

12:30 - Lunch

13.15 - Panel 1

14.45 - Break

15.00 - Panel 2

16.30 - Close