IECA Zoom meet-up invitation--In Search of Decoupling
Depoe, Steve (depoesp)
IECA MONTHLY MEET-UP
In Search of Decoupling: (How) Can We Combine Climate Sustainability with Economic Growth, Good Jobs, and Public Preferences?
April 1, 2025 | 17:00 CEST / 11 AM EDT | Via Zoom--link to our IECA Meet-Up: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/CQYYuv4gRoiON9kqNY6q1A
Speakers:
Prof. Malcolm Fairbrother, Institute for Future Studies. Uppsala University
Dr. Katya Rhodes, University of Victoria
Why is the world taking such painfully slow action on climate change? One major reason is public concern about economic costs, jobs that could be lost, and the uncertain benefits of potential new climate policies.
Join us for a practical discussion about a 5-year international and multidisciplinary project led by Malcolm Fairbrother, professor of sociology at Uppsala University, which has led research about these concerns and pointing to a reason for thinking the economic barriers to a sustainable climate are lower than many people realize--even scholars, policymakers, and environmental advocates. This project challenges the prevailing notion that climate action must come with a hefty economic price tag.
The meet-up will also explore how real-world successes have already shown that economic growth and environmental progress can go hand in hand. This session will highlight key lessons from past environmental victories, demonstrating how smart policies and green innovation have cut emissions without economic pain—and how we can use these insights to drive stronger, more effective climate action today.
For policymakers, climate advocates, and communicators, the findings present a compelling and conditionally optimistic alternative to the narrative of trade-offs in mobilizing public support. Instead of facing a future of painful transitions, the research indicates that a well-designed policy approach can foster win-win outcomes—reducing emissions while promoting economic growth.
