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SMF Keynote: It’s the Economy, Stupid!

SMF Keynote: It’s the Economy, Stupid! Can environmental issues still be a priority in the current economic climate?

Date: Monday, 15th September, 19.30 - 20.30

Location: Royal Bath Hotel Mirabelle Room

Speakers: Jeremy Browne Ed Gillespie, Futerra Dr Richard Grayson, Goldsmiths, University of London

Chair: Ian Mulheirn, SMF

Over the last few years the Liberal Democrats have led the way as all the main political parties have made strong environmental commitments. However, commitments to move energy production to new technologies, to improve energy efficiency and to reduce carbon emissions has cost implications and as the UK economy feels the strain of a global turndown these pledges may become increasingly hard fulfil.

Key Questions:

  • What are the cost implications of politicians’ environmental pledges?
  • Are there economic benefits to moving towards a low carbon economy?
  • If environmental commitments have negative economic impacts should they be dropped until the economy improves?