Experts Gather to Discuss Science in the Flourishing Green Economy

As the ink dries on the world climate change agreement drafted at COP21 in Paris last month, experts from science, technology, law and finance are coming together today (tWednesday 13th January) at Cranfield University (Bedfordshire) for the first Science for the Green Economy debate.

The ‘green economy’, an economy that reduces environmental risks and aims for sustainable development without degrading the environment, has been identified as a key contributor to economic resurgence and growth in the UK and across the world. Globally, it is estimated to be worth £3.4 trillion, and growing at 4% per annum.

Opportunities for a green economic boom lie ahead including jobs, export and clean technological innovations. The first national debate in Science for the Green Economy seeks to explore technology and management issues, including the disruptive innovations and the policy and regulatory environment in which the new technologies might thrive.

The debate will be chaired by Cranfield University’s Professor Paul Leinster CBE former Environment Agency CEO and will include contributions from Hayden Morgan (UK Green Investment Bank), Ben Ritchie (Aberdeen Asset Management), Alison Carter (ENDS Report), Julian Richardson (Parhelion Underwriting Ltd) as well as experts in law, the circular economy, corporate responsibility, and emissions reducing energy technology.

Professor Simon Pollard, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Cranfield’s School of Energy, Environment and Agrifood, said:

“It is clearer than ever that we must move responsibly towards a low carbon economy. In order to do so we must consider the big picture as well as the finer details of how this is delivered in the UK and worldwide. This two-day event will build on the successful seminar series hosted by Cranfield University and global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills.”

Julie Vaughan, Senior Associate at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, who is co-sponsoring the event at Cranfield, said:

“Clean tech and the green economy present significant investment opportunities in the post-COP21 world, but they need cradling in a favourable regulatory environment. Let's rekindle the buzz around their potential to both generate growth and further the sustainability agenda.”