This is a new monthly event, presented by SEE Change, Conservation Council ACT Region and Canberra Environment Centre.

This month: Climate reality, climate hope

Professor Mark Howden AC

Join us for the June edition of this monthly conversation series presented by SEE Change, Conservation Council ACT Region and Canberra Environment Centre.

Globally, climate action is still falling far short of what is needed — and the consequences are becoming increasingly visible through intensifying heatwaves, fires, floods and other climate impacts. But alongside the challenges, there are also genuine reasons for optimism.

In this timely and engaging talk, Mark will explore where the world is heading under current emissions trajectories, what this means for Australia and the ACT, and the practical opportunities still available to avoid the worst outcomes. Drawing on decades of work at the forefront of climate science and policy, Mark will discuss both the sobering realities of climate change and the encouraging progress already underway — from renewable energy transitions and electric vehicle uptake to climate adaptation and emissions reduction initiatives.

The talk will run for approximately 30 minutes, followed by audience Q&A and informal networking. The Dissent kitchen will be open.

About the speaker

Emeritus Professor Mark Howden AC is Vice Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and was until recently Director of the ANU Institute for Climate, Energy and Disaster Solutions and Chair of the ACT Climate Change Council.

Mark has worked on climate variability, climate change, sustainability and innovation for almost 40 years across research, industry and science-policy roles. He helped develop the greenhouse gas inventories that underpin the Paris Agreementand has been a major contributor to the IPCC since 1991 across climate science, adaptation, mitigation and greenhouse gas accounting. Alongside other IPCC contributors and Al Gore, he shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

Widely recognised as one of Australia’s leading climate communicators, Mark continues to advise governments, industries and communities on practical pathways toward a safer and more sustainable future.

Contact the host of Impact Hour - Mark Howden AC