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The need to find a sustainable future for humanity on planet Earth is a defining issue of our era. Researchers have up to now focused on analysing the problems of unsustainable behaviours and their consequences, such as climate change. Now we must also engage in implementing solutions – working with the societies we are embedded in to transform them towards a more sustainable state.

This demands a broader definition of sustainability research that spans the natural and social sciences, humanities and arts, and combines inter-disciplinary scientific research with action-oriented research that includes other forms of knowledge and methodologies. This ‘trans-disciplinary’ approach to sustainability research represents a huge opportunity for the University of Exeter to make its mark on the international stage.

The evening is open to all with an interest in sustainability, and offers the opportunity to find out more about the research programme at Exeter. Professor Lenton has been leading a review of sustainability research at Exeter, which will inform the content of this evening.

Programme

Profile: Professor Tim Lenton

Professor Tim Lenton has won widespread recognition for his work on the tipping elements in the climate system, winning the Times Higher Education Award for Research Project of the Year in 2008. He has also received a Philip Leverhulme Prize 2004, a European Geosciences Union Outstanding Young Scientist Award 2006, the British Association Charles Lyell Award Lecture 2006, and the Geological Society of London William Smith Fund 2008.

Tim moved to the University of Exeter in 2011, where he and his group are focusing on understanding these past revolutions, on developing an evolutionary model of the marine ecosystem, and on early warning of climate tipping points. Tim works closely with Professor Nick Talbot on the overall environmental research strategy for the University.