Climate change is happening in front of our eyes.

As funders, some of us focus on the urgent need to shut down coal and gas rather than helping people at the pointy end of the climate crisis. And those of us motivated by inequality may support people over climate solutions, feeling like the latter need is too huge.

At this upcoming Learning Circle, we will discuss how supporting those living with the most severe impacts of climate change can also pave the way to preventing it from getting worse.

Join Emma Bacon, Founder of Sweltering Cities in conversation with David Ritter, CEO of Greenpeace Australia, and Professor Jane McAdam AO, Director of the Andrew and Renata Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW.

Our guests will discuss the importance of talking and consulting with those most affected by climate change, and how we can inspire rapid climate action from those who may otherwise find it hard to relate to traditional campaigns.

By acknowledging where people are coming from, and listening to their concerns, we can design a world that makes sense in a changing climate. In turn, this work leads to climate-friendly solutions.

Our speakers are working on solutions at all levels, from the micro, such as making sure bus stops have shelters so that they are easy to use in sweltering weather, to the macro like working with Pacific nations to focus the region’s attention on where people will go as sea levels rise

This event will take place at our office in East Melbourne with the option to attend online. If you select an online ticket, the link to join will be sent on the day.

Speakers

David Ritter, CEO, Greenpeace Australia Pacific

David Ritter is the Chief Executive Officer of Greenpeace Australia Pacific. A widely published commentator on politics, law, history and current affairs, David's most recent book is The Coal Truth: The Fight to Stop Adani, Defeat the Big Polluters and Reclaim our Democracy. He holds honorary affiliations with the University of Sydney and the University of Western Australia. Prior to joining Greenpeace, David was one of Australia's leading Indigenous rights lawyers.

Jane McAdam AO, Professor, Andrew and Renata Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Rights Law

Professor Jane McAdam is Scientia Professor of Law and Director of the Andrew and Renata Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law at UNSW, which advances lawful, sustainable and humane solutions to forced migration. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for her distinguished service to international refugee law, particularly to climate change and the displacement of people. Recognised globally as the leading scholar in the field, her expertise has been sought by the UN and international agencies. She is currently assisting Pacific governments to develop a regional framework for climate mobility.

Emma Bacon, Founder, Sweltering Cities

Emma Bacon founded Sweltering Cities, a new organisation that works directly with communities in our warmest suburbs to campaign and advocate for more liveable, equitable, and sustainable cities. She is a passionate organiser, campaigner, and activist, having worked across movements for social and environmental justice for over 10 years. Emma has also run successful political campaigns and contributed to winning significant outcomes for progressive change at local to international levels – she is committed to building a broad movement for climate justice.