Network news

Calls

Research

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Network news

1. Mailing Highlights

Significant developments reported in this edition of the mailing include:

• Carbon Dioxide concentration at Mauna Loa Observatory reaches 400 ppm milestone

• The launch of the KPMG Green Tax Index which ranks countries according to how active they have been in using tax as a tool to drive sustainable corporate behaviour and achieve green policy goals.

• The release of a case study e-booklet containing 22 examples of implemented climate change adaptation measures, designed to inspire science, policy and practice.

• The publication of an ARCC CN report which documents the importance of collaboration in achieving better research outcomes.

Calls

1. Call for Papers- ‘Improving Energy Performance in Commercial Property’

The Journal of Property Investment and Finance is calling for papers on improving energy performance in commercial property. The Special Issue of papers will be published in 2014 and edited by Professor Tim Dixon, Professor in Sustainable Futures and the Built Environment at the University of Reading, with Professor Susan Bright (University of Oxford) and Dr Peter Mallaburn (de Montfort University). Suggested topic areas include, but are not limited to: Landlord tenant relationships and energy; Green leases; Retrofitting commercial property; Energy performance contracting; Energy performance and operational energy rating systems; Linking commercial property value and energy performance; Value transfer in the supply chain; Sustainable asset measurement systems; and, international benchmarking of sustainable investments. Closing date for submissions is 1st October 2013.

More…

2. Call for Papers- ‘New solutions for housing and regeneration: Communities, ownership and mutuality’

This one-day seminar organised by the Centre for Housing Research (University of St Andrews), will explore the recent emergence and revival of different forms of community-led and owned solutions to housing and regeneration issues. Papers related (but not limited) to the following are encouraged: rationales for and geographies of community ownership of housing and regeneration; the impact of changing policy processes and relationships between the state, market and civil society on community-led housing organisations; comparative and critical analysis of community ownership structures in different localities, regions and nations; case studies interrogating the benefits, success, effectiveness or sustainability of community-led organisations. Abstracts of 200 words that address these or other aspects of community empowerment, ownership and governance in housing and regeneration should be submitted to Dr Tom Moore (tm55@st-andrews.ac.uk) by Friday 17th May 2013.

More…

Research

1. ‘The Sustainable Relationship: What the United States and the United Kingdom Can Teach Each Other About Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the National Level’

This article published in The Environmental Forum, the policy journal of the Environmental Law Institute, compares and contrasts the actions of two important countries that have an historic ‘special relationship’—the United States and the United Kingdom. Suggestions as to what these two counties can teach each other about climate change and sustainable development at the national level are provided in the article. The lessons are divided into six key areas relating to: National sustainability strategies; Legal integration mechanisms; Governmental implementing/ coordinating bodies; Monitoring and review mechanisms; Leadership; and public support. The journal article can be downloaded without charge from The Social Science Research Network.

More…

Events

1. ‘Improving building performance: Sparing no expense to get something on the cheap?’

12th June 2013, UCL Energy Institute, London

Bill Bordass, one of the UK’s leading buildings performance evaluation experts, will be presenting the Inaugural George Henderson Memorial Lecture at the UCL Energy Institute in June. At this free event, Bill will address why the quest for more sustainable, lower-energy buildings seems to be turning into a complicated, expensive and bureaucratic obstacle race; and what might be done to change this. Following the talk, Steve Selkowitz, head of the Commercial Building Systems Group at Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, California, will respond to Bill’s points. A question and answer session and drinks reception will follow afterwards. The event will be chaired by Professor Tadj Oreszczyn, Director of the UCL Energy Institute.

More…

2. ‘Taking Stock: Current Research, Policy & Practice in ‘Eco-City’ Indicators, Standards and Frameworks’

28th June 2013, UCL Lecture Theatre, London

This first of three workshops jointly hosted by University College London (Bartlett School of Planning) and the University of Westminster (International Eco-Cities Initiative), as part of the Leverhulme International Network Tomorrow’s City Today, will review recent developments concerning urban sustainability indicators and frameworks across Britain. This will include considering recent research (from different academic perspectives) on the conceptualisation and application of indicators and frameworks, and analysing current policy initiatives as well as practical developments. One of the key aims of the workshop is to bring together researchers, policy specialists and practitioners with a view to building research capacity and encourage networking.

More…

3. ‘Future Earth UK Town Hall Meeting’

21st June 2013, London

The Royal Society and the British Academy are hosting a town-hall meeting to discover more about the new Future Earth initiative led by the International Council for Science (ICSU) in collaboration with the International Social Science Council. Future Earth is a 10-year international research venture that will develop the collaborative knowledge for responding effectively to the risks and opportunities of global environmental change and for supporting transformation towards global sustainability in the coming decades. This one-day meeting will enable members of the UK’s research and stakeholder communities to find out more about Future Earth from Dr Steven Wilson (Executive Director, ICSU) and Professor Rik Leemans (Future Earth Transition Team). Guest speakers Professor Georgina Mace, Professor Richard Wilkinson, Professor Peter Liss and Professor Corinne Le Quéré will introduce the research themes and give their perspectives on the opportunities that they represent for the UK research and stakeholder communities.

More…

4. ‘Biodiversity and the Natural Environment: valuation, localism and engaging business’

4th July 2013, Central London

This seminar organised by the Westminster Energy, Environment and Transport Forum will offer delegates the opportunity to consider the next steps in the development and implementation of UK policy to enhance biodiversity and the natural environment. The seminar will include discussion about the objectives outlined by Defra in their ‘Biodiversity 2020’ strategy and ‘2011-2015 Business Plan’. In particular, the economic, logistical and practical challenges in achieving these objectives will be explored. Delegates will also assess the progress that has been made in the delivery of the UK’s Natural Environment White Paper which aims to reconnect people and nature and to grow a green economy.

More…

5. ‘Environmental Assessment Methods workshop: from Buildings to Communities’

17th July 2013, University of Reading

This whole day event organised by BRE and the University of Reading will explore potential methods for assessing the sustainability of individual buildings and planning schemes. In particular, the event aims to: Present new research findings on the use of assessment methods, and how successful they have been in promoting more sustainable development; Provide an overview of the experience had by developers, planners, assessors, academics and others in their use of assessment methods such as the Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM; Provide an overview of assessment methods operating at the community scale; and, provide an update on the Government’s reforms of the planning system, and prospects for future developments. Places cost £75 and bookings can be made by contacting Stephanie Weller at s.j.weller@reading.ac.uk.

More…

6. ‘Sustainable intensification: The pathway to low carbon farming?’

25th-27th September 2013, Edinburgh University

Sustainable intensification has been advocated as an approach that can achieve the twin objectives of increasing food production whilst reducing greenhouse gas emissions. SRUC’s Carbon Management Centre is organising an international conference that will bring together natural scientists, social scientists, farm advisers and policy-makers to discuss and debate the key issues surrounding sustainable intensification. Key themes to be discussed include: the development of new metrics for defining sustainable intensification; linking the development of climate change mitigation and adaptation; and how to support growth in developing countries without increasing their emissions. Registration details as well as a programme outline are available online.

More…

Online

1. Carbon dioxide at Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii, reaches new 400ppm milestone

On 9th May 2013, the daily mean concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of Mauna Loa, Hawaii, surpassed 400 parts per million (ppm) for the first time since measurements began in 1958. As reported on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website (http://researchmatters.noaa.gov/news/Pages/CarbonDioxideatMaunaLoareaches400ppm.aspx), the rate of increase has accelerated since the measurements started, from about 0.7 ppm per year in the late 1950s to 2.1 ppm per year during the last 10 years. This concentration of carbon dioxide exceeds pre-industrial levels (280ppm) and the range observed in the last 800,000 years (180-280ppm). In April, an article in science journal ‘Nature’, considered the anticipated marking of this event, describing it as a ‘disturbing marker of humanity’s power to alter the chemistry of the atmosphere and by extension, the climate of the planet’. The article gives an overview of the significance of reaching this milestone and what it means for the planet’s future. In particular, in notes that at 400 ppm, nations will have a difficult time keeping global warming in check, as we become increasingly close to reaching the 2°C target that governments around the world have pledged not to exceed.

More…

2. KPMG launches Green Tax Index

The UK has recently been named by audit and tax advisory company, KPMG, as one of the six most active countries in using tax as a tool to drive sustainable corporate behaviour and achieve green policy goals. The findings are the result of KPMG’s Green Tax Index, a tool created to increase awareness of the ‘complex, fragmented and rapidly evolving’ green tax landscape worldwide. The index analyses green tax incentives and penalties in 21 major economies, focusing on key policy areas such as energy efficiency, water efficiency, carbon emissions, green innovation and green buildings. Other countries which performed well include the US, Japan, France, South Korea and China.

More…

3. Free household energy consumption data

As part of their Open Data project, the Centre for Sustainable Energy has assembled a comprehensive dataset of UK household energy consumption. The dataset is derived from the socio-demographically representative sample of UK households surveyed in the Office of National Statistics Living Costs and Food Survey. Data from six of these surveys (2004/5 to 2009) was combined, generating a sample size of over 36,000 cases. The dataset, which has been used to develop the analytical model ‘Dimpsa’ (Distributional Impacts Model for Policy Scenario Analysis), aims to provide a better understanding of the distribution of energy consumption patterns across households in Great Britain.

More…

New Publications

1. CIRIA report- ‘Water Sensitive Urban Design in the UK: Ideas for built environment practitioners’

This new report provides an overview that sets out the drivers, benefits and vision for Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) in the UK and is based on findings from a collaborative project that included extensive consultation and a literature review to understand the role of WSUD in the UK. The report describes WSUD as the process of integrating water cycle management with the built environment through planning and urban design. The different scales at which WSUD can be applied are outlined in the report, from the individual building level to whole neighbourhoods, large commercial developments and entire cities.

More…

2. ARCC CN Report- ‘Collaborative research for a changing climate: learning from researchers and stakeholders in the ARCC programme’

The Adaptation and Resilience to a Changing Climate Coordination Network (ARCC CN) has recently published this report based on the experiences of six ARCC projects. The study investigates how good collaboration between all partners contributes to better research outcomes. The report highlights that the benefits of effective collaboration are substantial, but working with the different expectations, aims and expertise of researchers and stakeholders can be difficult. Recommendations and a guide to good practice for those delivering, coordinating or commissioning stakeholder-engaged research projects is offered in the report.

More…

3. Circle-2 adaptation inspiration book – 22 implemented cases of local climate change adaptation to inspire European citizens

The CIRCLE-2 network has published a book of 22 case studies of implemented climate change adaptation measures.  CIRCLE-2 is a European Network of 34 institutions from 23 countries committed to funding research and sharing knowledge on climate adaptation and the promotion of long-term cooperation among national and regional climate change programmes. The book is designed to inspire

science, policy and practice and it is hoped that it will assist in the branding of adaptation as a positive approach to facing climate change. The case studies included in the book are divided into four key areas of climate risk- flooding, sea level rise, heat, and drought. The book concludes with some key lessons for all policy-makers, professionals and scientists working on adaptation to climate change.

More…

4. ‘The Climate Change Adaptation Toolkit and User Guide: a comprehensive guide to planning for climate change adaptation in three steps’

Net Balance, in collaboration with RMIT University and the City of Greater Geelong in Australia, has developed an ‘Adaptation Toolkit’ to assist organisations in prioritising their climate risks and adaptation actions. There are three separate tools that make up the toolkit. The first tool explores in detail the risk context, the second provides a process for identifying, exploring and evaluating adaptation options, and the third tool outlines a process for decision makers in an organisation to consider any interactions between a new proposal/project and climate change risks and adaptation actions. Although the toolkit includes examples relating specifically to a local Council context, aspects will be applicable to a wider range of organisations and sectors, and each of the included tools can readily be adapted to specific local and organisational contexts.

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs & Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliott.

A draft of the review can be downloaded here.

The Sustainable Development Research Network has recently undertaken a review of the UK research and policy landscape for cross-cutting sustainability research. It covers the period 2006-2012, and three key areas:

1. Continuing needs to achieve: a) greater effectiveness in research funding coordination & priorities; b) a more favourable institutional context for professional learning and careers; c) enhanced boundary capabilities between knowledge and users for both policy and innovation.
2. Emerging challenges from: a) a wider diversity of arenas of users, funders, & researchers; b) the growing importance of multiple levels of governance.
3. New policy pressures: a) the increased difficulties of strategic choices under constraints on public funding; b) a sharper political contestation of economic and environmental goals.

An initial version of the Review was published for comment and input from SDRN stakeholders in February 2013. The public consultation closed on 4 March 2013. The final version of the Review will be made available for download on this page within the next few days.

Please check back soon for the final report of the SDRN Review of the Sustainable Development Research and Policy Landscape, or sign up to become a member of SDRN for free and be notified about the Review when it becomes available and other reports, events and news about sustainable development.

The February 2013 consultation draft can be downloaded here.

Network news

Calls

Research

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Network news

1. SDRN Case Study Database

Two new case studies have been uploaded to the SDRN Case Study Database, a resource which provides real world examples of sustainable development initiatives in a concise and accessible format for policy-makers, researchers and practitioners. The two latest additions include reviews of the London Olympic Park, and Hadleigh Farm- a mountain biking venue also built for the London 2012 Olympics. The focus of the Olympic Park case study is on the green infrastructure planning carried out in order to support the delivery of the Olympic Development Authority’s sustainability commitments. The Hadleigh Park case study examines how an opportunity to expand investment in the long-term sporting and recreational facilities of the area also yielded an opportunity to improve the quality and accessibility of the natural environment. Both case studies highlight the benefit of taking an integrated approach to delivery.

More…

2. Mailing Highlights

Other significant developments reported in this edition of the mailing include:

• The launch of an Environmental Audit Commission enquiry on the ‘Measuring Well-being’ initiative being run by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The enquiry should, amongst other things, examine what particular areas of policy-making the Government should open up to the results of the ‘Measuring well-being’ initiative’s research and analysis.

• The publication of a European Sustainable Development Network Quarterly Report which sheds light on the future of the European Union Sustainable Development Strategy in light of the Rio+20 outcomes.

• The publication of the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) third comprehensive tracking of progress in clean energy technology. The report aims to serve as a reality check for policy-makers.

Calls

1. Call for applications- NERC Environment Data

The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) is inviting applications for projects of up to four months which consider the use of NERC environmental data in the development of applications, products and services. Funding of up to £15K is available to researchers which should enable them to: liaise with businesses and other end-users to understand their requirements and gauge their interest in a product, service or application which uses NERC-funded data; develop a mock up or ‘storyboard’ to visualise what the product, service or application may look like; and work up datasets which are of interest to business and other end-users to ensure they will be accessible. Projects should be based around the sectors of transport, energy, built environment, or agriculture. Applications should be submitted electronically to innovation@nerc.ac.uk by 24 May 2013.

More…

Research

1. ‘Towards the ‘ubiquitous eco-city’: An analysis of the internationalisation of eco-city policy and practice’

A recently published journal article Urban Research & Practice uses empirical data to identify a series of significant trends that have accompanied the global mainstreaming of eco-city policy and practice. These trends include:
• Increased international knowledge transfer activities involving both public and private actors;
• The centrality of ‘carbon discourse’;
• The marrying of ‘green’ with ‘smart’ technological systems; and
• A focus on achieving environmental innovation through economic growth.
Together, they render contemporary urban sustainability conceptually and practically distinctive from earlier periods. The paper draws out a number of implications for policy, planning and practice.

More…

Events

1. ‘Dismantling Public Policy? Social and environmental policy in a period of austerity’

Tuesday 7th May 2013, Leeds

The Centre for Climate Change Economics and Policy is hosting a public lecture by Andy Jordan, Professor of Environmental Politics at the University of East Anglia. At this free event, Andy will seek to offer a more comparative approach to understanding policy dismantling, by looking in greater detail at the dynamics of cutting in two different policy fields: one (social policy) which has been subjected to study before and the other (environmental policy) which has not. Andy will examine what motivates politicians to dismantle public policy, the strategies they employ, and the effects these have on policy and politics.

More…

2. ‘Rio+20 Treaty on Higher Education: Engaging Communities of Learning in Change for Sustainability’

13th May 2013, Barcelona

The COPERNICUS Alliance (CA) and the United Nations University Advanced Studies Institute (UNU IAS), through its Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) initiative, have entered in partnership to co-organise a side event during the Global University Network of Innovation (GUNi) 6th International Conference on Higher Education. The event, entitled “The Rio+20 Treaty on Higher Education: Engaging communities of learning in change for sustainability”, will bring together CA members, RCEs and signatories of the Treaty to share insight, challenges and successes in engaging learning communities in change for sustainability.

More…

3. ‘Sustainability 24’

15th May 2013, Online

Following the success of last year’s event, Accenture will again be running ‘Sustainability 24’- an event aimed at advancing the sustainability debate among business and government leaders, civil society and other stakeholders across the world. The focus for this year’s event will be ‘Sustainability Innovation – Scaling for Transformational Impact’. The event will involve a live, global, twelve hour online broadcast, uniting leaders in their fields through panel discussions, industry-focused debates and audience interactive question and answer sessions. A broadcast schedule with further detail on each of the twelve sessions taking place is available online.

More…

4. ‘Transdisciplinary Research on Sustainability in Europe’

23rd-24th May 2013, Prague

The CONVERGE EU FP7 research project along with Charles University Environment Centre and COPERNICUS Alliance will be hosting a one and a half day workshop in Prague on Transdisciplinary Research for Sustainability (TDRS). It is hoped that the conference will help to: inform the EU’s research agendas and meta-agendas about evaluation, conduct and processes of TDRS; explore the Convergence and other approaches, tools and concepts that might inform and link with agendas in TDRS; and assist with the development of recommendations that might enable better and more productive TDRS.

More…

5. ‘Sustainable housing in a post-growth Europe’

6th-7th June 2013, Barcelona

The University of Barcelona, Institute of Environmental Science and Technology, is hosting its 2nd multinational knowledge brokerage event in the area of Sustainable Housing. The event will bring together policy-makers, high-level scientists, and business representatives to address pressing questions on the potentials and challenges of sustainable housing and to provide an impetus for effective policy. Some of the questions that will be discussed at the event include: How to combine top-down and bottom-up approaches in the implementation of social housing and energy efficient refurbishment?; What is the contribution of new and creative approaches in policy-making – like cohousing, shared services and appliances – for increased habitability, comfort levels and reduced environmental impacts?; and, which economic and regulatory mechanisms could bring together the existing demand for affordable housing and the potential of the empty housing stock?

More…

Online

1. EAC launches inquiry on Well-being

Following on from their recent report on Sustainable Development Indicators, the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has launched a further inquiry on the ‘Measuring Well-being’ initiative being run by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In November, the ONS published an analysis of its well-being survey data, comparing people’s well-being according to gender, age, ethnic group, relationship status, health, disability, employment status and occupation, as well as by nation, region and local authority. Amongst the areas to be explored as part of the EAC enquiry include: the Government’s plans to utilise the results of the available well-being research and analysis in policy-making; what particular areas of policy-making the Government should now open up to the results of the well-being analysis and research, and on which areas of policy-making it should exercise caution; and, how the ONS work might be further expanded or adjusted to reflect well-being research and metrics being developed elsewhere.

More…

2. UKERC Research Atlas

The UK Energy Research Centre has created a Research Atlas to assist policy-makers and researchers to review the current status of UK Energy Research and Development, and identify key research challenges. The Research Atlas team based at the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Rutherford Appleton Laboratory has been commissioning updates to the landscapes and has recently announced the publication of two updated landscapes- Wind Energy and Solar Energy. Additional revised landscapes are expected soon.

More…

3. Video- Terrace house solid wall insulation project

Is it viable to fit external solid wall insulation to a row of terraced houses? This video documents the experience of a Bristol community group who embarked on a mass solid wall insulation project for a whole terrace of houses at once. The film was made for PlanLoCaL by the Centre for Sustainable Energy.

More…

New Publications

1. ESDN Quarterly Report- ‘The Future of the EU SDS in light of the Rio+20 outcomes’

The European Sustainable Development Network (ESDN) has released its latest Quarterly Report on the future of the European Union Sustainable Development Strategy (EU SDS) in light of the Rio+20 outcomes. The report is divided into five main chapters. The first chapter presents the Rio+20 process and its implementation at the EU level. The second chapter offers a comparative analysis of the Rio+20 outcome document and EU policy strategies, whilst the third chapter gives a description of those objectives included in the EU SDS of 2006 that have not been achieved yet. In the fourth chapter, consideration is given to recent developments at European level, such as the proposal for a 7th EAP and the EU Commission Communication on Rio+20 that was published in February 2013. Finally, in the concluding chapter, the report provides some points of reflection that aim to stimulate discussion and prompt further debate.

More…

2. ‘Unburnable carbon 2013: Wasted capital and stranded assets’

Carbon Tracker, a non-profit organisation working to align the capital markets with the climate change policy agenda, has teamed up with the Grantham Research Institute to produce this new report. ‘Unburnable carbon 2013: Wasted capital and stranded assets’ builds upon findings of a previous report that showed that based on current understanding of an allowable carbon budget, to keep below two degrees of global warming, there is more fossil fuel listed on the world’s capital markets than can be burned. The report calls for regulators, governments and investors to re-evaluate energy business models against carbon budgets, in order to prevent a $6trillion carbon bubble in the next decade. It makes a number of recommendations for action by governments, financial intermediaries, institutional investors and citizens to manage this risk.

More…

3. IEA report- ‘Tracking Clean Energy Progress 2013’

This is the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) third comprehensive tracking of progress in clean energy technology which aims to serve as a reality check for policy-makers. The review examines the latest developments in key clean energy technologies and asks questions such as: To what extent are clean energy technologies being used? What is being done to foster necessary markets? How are individual technologies performing and developing? Each technology and sector is tracked against interim 2020 targets in the IEA 2012 Energy Technology Perspectives 2°C scenario, which lays out pathways to a sustainable energy system in 2050. Key messages that emerge in the report, include: that progress has not been fast enough, large market failures are preventing clean energy solutions from being taken up; and considerable energy-efficiency potential remains untapped. The report also introduces a new IEA index which tracks the carbon intensity of energy supply since 1970, and further reinforces the need for more concerted effort.

More…

4. New book- The Water Footprint of Modern Consumer Society

This new book by Arjen Hoekstra explains how the concept of a ‘water footprint’ can be used to quantify and map the water use behind consumption and guide reduction of water use to a sustainable level. A number of case studies are included in the book that illustrate water use along supply chains, and how water consumption at one place is often linked to water use at another. For example, it is calculated that it takes 15,000 litres of water to produce 1 kg of beef, or 8,000 litres of water to produce a pair of jeans. The book describes how imports of water-intensive products can highly benefit water-scarce countries, but that this creates a dependency on foreign water resources. Ultimately, the book raises the issue of sustainable consumption, and asks how consumers, businesses and governments can get involved in reducing the water footprints of final consumer goods.

More…

5. Ricardo-AEA Report- ‘Powering Ahead: The Future of low-carbon cars and fuels’

The Royal Automobile Club Foundation for Motoring (RAC Foundation) and UK Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA) have just published a report by Ricardo-AEA on the future of low-carbon cars and fuels. The report describes how industry consensus and market projections suggest that there will not be a single, dominant technology or fuel going forward in the way that there has been over the last century (i.e. with the monopoly of the internal-combustion engine). Instead, there will be a range of solutions for different transport applications. One of the recommendations made in the report is that policy-makers should take a technology-neutral approach to the encouragement of low-carbon vehicles. Further, they should focus on the use of fiscal, regulatory, and other policy levers to drive both the demand and supply of such vehicles, leaving the automotive industry to lead the evolution, and the bringing to market, of the various technologies.

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs & Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliott.

Network news

Calls

Research

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Network news

1. Mailing Highlights

Significant developments reported in this mailing include:
• The publication by Defra of a series of policy evidence plans intended to maintain a good line of sight between policy outcomes and the evidence used to inform policy development. These importantly highlight Defra’s evidence needs and the longer term future direction of these.
• The publication by the Green Growth Knowledge Platform (a partnership formed by the OECD, UNEP, World Bank and GGGI) of Moving towards a Common Approach on Green Growth Indicators that proposes a set of headline indicators for monitoring and communicating progress on greening growth and a greener economy and an international agenda for action for taking these forward.
• The publication of the Natural Capital Committee’s first annual ‘State of Natural Capital report’ which ‘sets out a framework that will help natural capital to be hard wired into economic decision making in this country’.

Calls

1. Call for abstracts- ‘Sustainable Innovation 2013’

The Centre for Sustainable Design is organising an event on sustainable innovation as part of the ‘Towards Sustainable Product Design’ conferences series. The conference will provide a platform to discuss the opportunities and challenges related to collaboration, co-creation and new business models related to sustainability, products, services and technologies. Conceptual and research-based papers in these areas are now being welcomed and should cover sustainability, product, service and technology design, development and commercialisation issues. To make a submission, please email, fax or post a 500 word abstract describing your proposed paper by 30th April 2013. The paper will then be sent to the Advisory Board for evaluation and authors will be given feedback by the end of June 2013. The highest rated papers will be invited to present at the conference.

More…

2. Call for abstracts- ‘The Radical Emission Reduction Conference’

This Tyndall Centre event will bring together academics and practitioners, engineers and economists, policy-makers and civil society to explore evidenced-based opportunities for delivering urgent and deep reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases. Abstracts are invited from anyone engaged in understanding or delivering radical mitigation, including academics or practitioners working on: rapid penetration of low-energy end-use technologies; behavioural and practice implications of radical transitions; practical examples of sustained and deep emission reductions; comparison of historical precedents of radical transitions from other fields; governance opportunities and hurdles to foster non-marginal mitigation; employment and economic impacts and opportunities of radical mitigation; and, synergies and conflicts between radical mitigation and adaptation. An abstract submission form should be completed and sent to radicalemission-reduction@manchester.ac.uk before midnight 28th June 2013.

More…

3. Call for abstracts- ‘Making Mixed-Methods Work in Research’

A workshop will be held in June 2013 to explore the variety of research methods that researchers are using to engage with communities and make sense of the processes that inform travel practices. Submissions are invited that address questions related to interdisciplinary methodological practices and may address a variety of issues such as: novel methods, new methodological considerations; mixing of methods, the role of new technologies, and crowd sourcing etc. Submissions from project teams that wish to give both a presentation and also develop a paper for a Special Issue of a journal are encouraged. Whilst the session seeks contributions in the traditional paper format, it also seeks to encourage other forms of audience engagement such as demos, audience participation activities and discussion. Abstracts of up to 250 words should be submitted to Jane Macdonald (jane.macdonald@ed.ac.uk) by 6th May 2013.

More…

Research

1. Journal article- ‘Estimation of companies’ emissions and water usage in the absence of company specific information’

Estimating businesses’ emissions and water use without direct information from companies can be challenging.  A new study has been published which develops a framework to generate comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions, waste and water use estimates for individual businesses and all businesses of a sector in an area, which are otherwise not available.  The framework, developed by Peter Bradley, Angela Druckman and Tim Jackson of the University of Surrey, makes use of two different accounting perspectives: the production perspective (on site greenhouse gases) and the provision perspective (supply chain greenhouse gasses attributable to purchased inputs of a business or sectors production). The new provision perspective and its consequences are explored and explained.

More…

Events

1. ‘Cars and the Climate: Are we geared up for the challenge?’

22nd April 2013, London
The RAC Foundation and Royal Automobile Club are hosting an afternoon of discussion on the contribution to be made by drivers and the car industry in the UK’s efforts to tackle climate change. Six years after the King Review of low-carbon cars called for significant technological and behavioural changes, what has actually happened? How does the decarbonisation of road transport measure up against progress being made in other areas? These are questions which will be explored at the event which will also be used to highlight the key findings from a soon to be published Ricardo-AEA report for the RAC Foundation on the carbon reduction potential of various power trains and fuels, and their likely market share. The event is free, however, registration is required by emailing events@racfoundation.org

More…

2. Green Economics Institute Event- ‘The Greening of Food and Farming’

1st May 2013, University of Oxford
The Green Economics Institute will be running a one day seminar/ workshop aimed at exploring the latest topical issues in food, farming and agriculture and creating a series of policy recommendations. The workshop will produce an Academic Proceedings Document with inputs from across the globe. A book will also be produced which will contain information from up to 40 voices from around the world, from policy makers, campaigners, farmers and people involved in production and distribution of food, wine and water. Please email greeneconomicsinstitute@yahoo.com for reservations or other enquiries.

More…

3. Global Sustainability Institute Research Conference- ‘Big Challenges, Creative Solutions’

15th May 2013, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge Campus
Creative thinking in the redesign of individual and global systems is crucial to meet the scale of complex challenges posed by resources scarcity and environmental limits. On May 15th 2013, the Global Sustainability Institute (GSI) at Anglia Ruskin University will host its 1st Research Conference on the theme of ‘Big Challenges, Creative Solutions’. The conference structure will provide a platform for open discussion and genuine collaboration between actors across academia, politics, business, finance, science, economics, health, education, art, the creative industries, and beyond. The aim will be to develop creative cross-sector solutions to delivering a sustainable future.

More…

4. Greening Government 2013 Conference and Exhibition

10th September 2013, The Brewery Conference Centre, London
Govtoday is hosting the Greening Government 2013 Conference and Exhibition ‘Delivering change, promoting excellence’, and there are a limited number of fully funded delegate places now available for SDRN members. ‘Delivering change, promoting excellence’ continues Govtoday’s series of events from Securing the Future. It is their fifth Annual National Conference examining the progress by Central Government in promoting and achieving measures that incorporate sustainable development to deliver a 34 per cent reduction in emissions by 2020, and 80 per cent by 2050. The Government’s aim was to lead this agenda by example, with the reform of operations and procurement through a “step change in leadership, efficiency, transparency and accountability”. To apply for a place contact bookings@govtoday.co.uk with your contact details quoting ref SDR6.

More…

Online

1. The Low Carbon Dialogue Scotland website

The Low Carbon Dialogue Scotland website and forum has just been launched, providing a space for anyone with an interest in low-carbon issues to discuss topics relating to the move towards a sustainable, low-carbon society. Run by researchers from the School of GeoSciences at the University of Edinburgh, a different discussion topic will be posed each month. This month’s topic is ‘what is the role of civil society in making decisions about our low-carbon future?’ Although the forum is designed primarily for low-carbon issues in the Scottish context, contributions and insights from other parts of the world are very welcome.  Topics are intended to be sufficiently broad to allow a wide range of interests to participate.

More…

2. NUS awarded money for Student’s Green Fund

The National Union of Students (NUS) has been awarded £5 million by Higher Education Funding Council England (HEFCE) for a Students’ Green Fund, the four key themes of which will be student participation, partnership, impact and legacy. The funding will help students to engage with their universities and colleges on sustainable development, and to ensure that sustainability remains a priority with institutions. NUS will run a single-round bidding competition in summer 2013, to allocate the funding.

More…

3. NYTimes article- Scientists Propose a New Architecture for Sustainable Development

The 2012 United Nations summit in Brazil required governments to create a set of sustainable development goals (SDGs) that would be integrated into the follow-up to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) after their 2015 deadline. Discussions on how to formulate these have continued in recent weeks at UN headquarters in New York. This article provides an overview of a recently published commentary by 10 scientists and development analysts who have proposed a fundamentally different way to approach this task. They argue that humanity is driving global environmental change and has pushed us into ‘a new geological epoch’. These changes necessitate a whole new understanding of our place in the world and the abandonment of old ways of thinking. The commentary describes how the traditional three-pillar model of sustainable development be replaced with the concept of ‘an economy, within society, within Earth’s life support system’. An alternative to the traditional Brundtland Commission definition of sustainable development is proposed: “development that meets the needs of the present while safeguarding Earth’s life-support system, on which the welfare of current and future generations depends”. Six universal sustainable development goals are identified to deliver on this new definition, with quantifiable targets for each goal also set.

More…

New Publications

1. Defra publishes policy evidence plans

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has produced a series of evidence plans for different policy areas which make significant use of formal evidence, including plans for water, waste and resources, sustainable economy sustainable land and farming and climate change. The evidence plans will be used to help ensure the link between evidence and policy development and implementation. The evidence plans set out evidence needs for a 5 year timeframe and will be updated roughly annually to reflect any major changes in evidence needs as a result of changing policy.

More…

2. UNESCO UK policy brief on Education for Sustainable Development

The UK National Commission for UNESCO has released a report which provides an account of the current status of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) across the UK. The report describes how ESD can be thought of as a process of learning how to make decisions that consider the long-term future of the economy, ecology and equity of all communities. It draws on evidence from independent experts from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales (education is a devolved responsibility in the UK) and sets out some of the characteristics of best practice and an analysis of future opportunities for enhancing the core role of education and learning in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.

More…

3. Natural England report- ‘Environmental Monitoring in Natural England 2012’

Natural England has produced a new report describing its monitoring work. ‘Environmental Monitoring in Natural England 2012’ provides examples of monitoring activity from across the organisation in 2012.  The report describes the main themes being delivered within the organisation’s Integrated Monitoring programme, illustrating this with examples of surveys they manage and detailed case studies. Their environmental monitoring evidence is the product of actions by a wide range of bodies and this report highlights instances of effective working with, and support from, partners including Defra, the voluntary sector, and industry. The report aims to raise awareness of the Integrated Monitoring programme and demonstrate the joint working in their approach.

More…

4. Natural Capital Committee’s first annual ‘State of Natural Capital’ Report

The Natural Capital Committee (NCC), an independent advisory body to Government, has just released a report outlining their approach for the better measurement, valuation and management of England’s natural capital. The Report does not aim to be comprehensive, but sets out strategic priorities and corresponding actions to fulfil the NCC’s remit. It also identifies current knowledge gaps, some of which the Committee intends to address in subsequent reports (the next one of which will be published in early 2014). The report is available online and feedback on the key messages and recommendations are welcome.

More…

5. New book- ‘Adapting to Climate Change: 2.0 Enterprise Risk Management’

‘Adapting to Climate Change’ is part of the DōShorts Sustainable Business Collection- a growing collection of short books written about a range of emerging practical business sustainability challenges. This book proposes that if an organisation has reason to worry about the potential impacts of weather on its operations and supply chains, it will most likely have cause to worry about climate change. It recognises that the uncertainties associated with forecasting climate change on a timeframe and at a scale that is relevant to corporate decision making can be difficult. However, authors Trexler & Kosloff argue that it is not necessary to have perfect information to advance corporate preparedness for and resilience to climate change. A Bayesian approach to reducing uncertainty over time can cost-effectively support companies in understanding and managing many potential climate risks and can avoid the need to depend on future predictions.

More…

6. Moving towards a Common Approach on Green Growth Indicators: A Green Growth Knowledge Platform Scoping Paper

The Green Growth Knowledge Platform is a global network of researchers and development experts that identifies and addresses major knowledge gaps in green growth theory and practice. The report ‘Moving towards a Common Approach on Green Growth Indicators’, is presented as a first step towards developing a framework to monitor progress on greening growth and a greener economy and is a joint effort by the OECD, UNEP, the World Bank, and the Global Green Growth institute as part of their collaboration on the Green Growth Knowledge Platform (GGKP). The report offers a conceptual framework and presents key principles for achieving high quality greening growth and greener economy indicators. These principles are applied and a long list of indicators proposed which are highlighted as being good for monitoring progress but poor for communication. Headline indicators are therefore suggested and complementary approaches considered as well as the limitations of such approaches and an agenda for next steps.

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs & Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website.

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliott.

Network news

Calls

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Network news

1. Design and Delivery of Robust Hospital Environments in a Changing Climate

A new film has been released which examines how existing National Health Service hospital architecture may be refurbished to become more resilient to extreme summer heat waves. The film is one of the outputs from a research project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) as part of a major adaptation programme. Although the film has a focus on hospital architecture, there are lessons that can be drawn from it in a more general sense i.e. how existing buildings can be modified to be more resilient to the effects of climate change whilst maximising energy efficiency.

A representative sample of NHS hospital buildings dating from the 1930s to the present were chosen as case studies for the project, and their future performance predicted through to 2080. Having diagnosed the buildings’ strengths and weaknesses, the research team proposed various refurbishment options, which were detailed, modelled and assessed for their infection control implications. The findings of the research demonstrated in the video included that:

a.) refurbishment can significantly lower the energy use of hospital buildings in the present day, essential for the NHS to meet its carbon reduction targets whilst also saving money;
b.) refurbishment, including naturally ventilated options, can deliver buildings that perform well in extreme summers in future climates; and
c.) refurbishment does not cost in excess of new-build construction.

More…

Calls

1. Call for expressions of interest- Sustainable Intensification Research Platform

Defra is establishing three umbrella projects that will collectively form a research platform on the Sustainable Intensification of UK agriculture. Those interested are invited to contribute to the process of developing this platform by (1) providing written comments on annex 1 of the working paper, (2) by expressing an interest in attending a scoping workshop on Wednesday 24th April and/or (3) by expressing an interest in participating in a call for research proposals which will be held later this year. The objectives of the workshop on 24th April will be to: inform researchers and other interested parties of the scope and objectives of the Sustainable Intensification Platform; facilitate networking between researchers to encourage collaboration in the formation of multi-disciplinary, multi-organisation consortia; and, scope the final specifications for research projects on Integrated Farm Management in the UK, interactions between environmental and food production objectives in UK farmed landscapes, and influences of global food supply chains and other external drivers on UK farming.

More…

Events

1. Policy seminar- ‘The Value of Evaluation; Increasing the Impact of Evaluation on Decision Making’

A lunchtime policy seminar run by the Alliance for Useful Evidence will take place this month, focussing on how evaluation evidence can be used to better guide policy and decision making. The barriers and enablers that would assist in greater take-up of evaluation will also be explored; for instance, better commissioning, more relevant and higher quality evidence and greater application of what has been learned from evaluations. The event will also provide a forum to discuss how we can embed some of the recommendations set out in the National Audit Office’s forthcoming report on government evaluation – due to be launched shortly. The event is open to all members of the Alliance, but is also suitable for evaluators, commissioners and decision makers in central government, non-departmental public bodies (NDBPs), charities, local authorities, academia and consultancy.

More…

2. InContext Final Conference & Informed Cities Forum 2013- ‘How to create space for change? Rediscovering the power of community’

6-7th June 2013, Berlin, Germany
In June 2013 the final conference of InContext, together with the Informed Cities Forum 2013 will bring together local government and community representatives, researchers and other actors interested in exploring how to create space for change and move towards better places, stronger communities and more resilient societies. Participants will have the chance to: reflect on their own role in making change happen; learn about new tools and methods to help successfully engage with the local community and improve the quality of local processes; exchange experience on future-oriented initiatives in the field of participatory governance, energy, food and mobility; explore the role of research in facilitating local transition processes; and build new partnerships between actors coming from different sectors and countries.

More…

3. UNU RCE Severn and Energy Institute Event- ‘Energy Management: Energising the Workforce’

23rd April 2013, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham
The UNU RCE Severn (University of Gloucestershire) and the Energy Institute are hosting an evening event, led by Vilnis Vesma, which will provide key insights on managing and saving energy in the workplace. The talk will focus on the ways people traditionally approach energy-saving motivation and awareness, and propose an interesting alternative which can be less costly and more effective. The event is free of charge and light refreshments will be provided. Places can be booked by emailing Ingrid Mulà, RCE Severn Co-ordinator at ingridmula@glos.ac.uk.

More…

4. The Schumacher Institute Research Conference- ‘A New Social Contract for Sustainability?’

20th- 21st June 2013, Bristol
Inspired by the work of the German Advisory Council on Global Change (WGBU) and its report ‘World in Transition – A Social Contract for Sustainability’, The Schumacher Institute and its German Partners will be hosting a two-day conference that will combine research with public debate to explore the social, political and economic implications of this subject. Day one of the event will involve expert presentations with research workshops to identify key issues and explore the proposals for, and implications of, a New Social Contract for Sustainability. Day two will include the presentation of research discussions and public debate to explore what a New Social Contract for Sustainability means and to take these ideas forward in a practical way.

More…

Online

1. New website- Democracy and Sustainability Platform

The world’s first people’s manifesto for democracy and sustainability has recently been launched, setting out a global agenda for action. The Manifesto is the heart of the Democracy and Sustainability Platform, an online space which invites members to share ideas and actions to get democracy working better for sustainability. The platform is supported by a diverse group of founder signatories including the International Institute for Environmental Development. The text of the Manifesto on Democracy and Sustainability draws on around 330 consultation responses from people in over 35 countries, as well as advice and feedback from an international group of participants at a workshop hosted by Salzburg Global Seminar in December 2012.

More…

2. News article- ‘Coming soon: Sustainability ratings for real estate investments’

A news article at GreenBiz.com describes how comparing sustainability practices in the real estate industry will be enabled through a new index series that measures real estate portfolios based on the share of assets that are certified as green properties. The indexes is intended to give investors a structured way to measure and model the risk and reward profile of green property, using the first codified, transparent definition of listed green property. They will also provide investors with new ways to incorporate principles of sustainability into their property selections and portfolios, and access this investment theme through index-linked financial products.

More…

3. Ex Ante Appraisal Carbon-balance Tool (EX-ACT)

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations has made available a carbon forecasting tool that estimates the potential impact of agriculture and forestry projects before they happen, i.e. at the planning stages. The tool called ‘EX-ACT’ computes the difference in carbon balance with and without a project, and the difference represents the potential impact of the project in terms of mitigation, indicating the net amount of carbon sequestered (carbon sink) or emitted (carbon source) as a result of the project. EX-ACT is downloadable as an MS Excel file, along with technical guidance.

More…

New Publications

1. New book- ‘Enough is Enough: Building a Sustainable Economy in a World of Finite Resources’

In Enough Is Enough, Rob Dietz and Dan O’Neill propose an alternative to the perpetual pursuit of economic growth—an economy where the goal is enough, not more.  They explore specific strategies to conserve natural resources, stabilize population, reduce inequality, fix the financial system, create jobs, and more—all with the aim of maximizing long-term well-being instead of short-term profits.

More…

2. New policy handbook- ‘Low-Carbon Land Transport’

Providing a practical guide for transport policymakers and planners, this book outlines a range of ways in which carbon emissions can be reduced through low-carbon land transport systems. Based on wide ranging research, case studies from developed and developing countries and an overview of policy scenarios, ‘Low-Carbon Land Transport’ presents a toolbox for decision makers with a huge variety of measures which can be tailored to their specific circumstances.

More…

3. IFPRI report- ‘Food policy in 2012: Walk the Talk’

The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) has published its 2012 Food policy report which examines the major food policy issues, developments, and decisions of 2012. By putting into perspective the year’s food policy successes and disappointments, the report suggests how to move forward those policies that improve the food situation for the poor. Among the questions explored are: How has sustainable development evolved and is a green economy far behind? How can agriculture offer meaningful jobs to the growing number of young people in Africa? What directions are US and EU agricultural policies taking, and how do they diverge?

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs & Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliott.

Network news

Calls

Research

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Network news

1. Designing carbon taxation to protect low-income households

Is it possible to increase carbon taxes on household energy use and transport, while protecting low-income households from negative impacts? This is the question explored in a new report by a team co-ordinated by Simon Dresner from the Policy Studies Institute. The report outlines the difficulty and controversy often associated with the taxation of household energy, describing expenditure on energy as highly regressive (low-income households spend a higher proportion of their income on energy than richer households). However, it also acknowledges that carbon pricing is widely recognised as essential for the transition to a low-carbon society. The report subsequently models four different designs of environmental tax reform to determine how a revenue-neutral carbon tax on household energy use and transport might protect low-income households from losing money overall.

The modelling finds that using Universal Credit and Pension Credit (as well as increasing the Income Tax Personal Allowance and the basic State Pension) can redistribute the tax revenue so that most (69% to 86%) low-income households in the bottom two deciles would gain from higher taxation of household energy, and few (8% to 15%) of these households would lose. The compensation packages do not protect everyone on a low income as some are not eligible for benefits. However, the tax reform models overall do represent a progressive approach to carbon taxation.

The report concludes that if the Government wants to use taxation to reduce CO2 emissions, it should not be dissuaded from doing so by fears of its impact on income, provided that at the same time it applies appropriate compensation measures.

More…

Calls

1. Call for papers- Special journal issue on sustainable supply chains and energy security (Applied Energy)

A special issue of Applied Energy is proposed, to focus on the links between energy security and the supply chains/value chains that make up energy systems. Insightful contributions are being sought from researchers and practitioners pertaining to the importance of supply chains for a low carbon, sustainable and secure future. This can include supply chains related to power, heat and transport on both the demand side and the supply side, across themes such as, but not limited to: the risks and opportunities for supply chains in the transition to low carbon energy systems; renewable and other low carbon technologies; infrastructure and networks; the relationship between scale and supply chain resilience; skills and training needs; energy policy; finance and investment; materials; implications for energy costs and prices of scarcity; supply chain analysis, such as the nature by which supply chains develop, expand or fail; market structures and competition; and further work to conceptualize the importance of a supply chain analysis to energy security and a low carbon transition. The submission deadline for completed manuscripts is 28th June 2013.

More…

2. Call for papers- ESRC Research Seminar Series on the Green Economy

A consortium of researchers based at the Universities of Bradford, East Anglia, and Exeter are running an international seminar series on the ‘Green Economy’ between May and December 2013. Funded by ESRC, the series will consist of four seminars bringing together academics, public policy-makers, businesses, and civil society organisations. Papers are being welcomed for the second seminar in the series which will specifically examine the green collar economy. Aims of the seminar are to: better understand how ‘green jobs’ and ‘green businesses’ are being created through the generation of data, primarily from the UK; better understand the facilitating factors and obstacles to developing a ‘green collar economy’; assess the degree to which ‘green jobs’ and ‘green business’ creation are contributing to both the green economy and the wider goal of sustainable development; and assess the scope for learning and lesson drawing for policy. To propose a paper for the seminar, submit an abstract of 300- 500 words by the 3rd April 2013 to Jenny Fairbrass (J.Fairbrass@bradford.ac.uk) carefully explaining how it fits in with the aims of the seminar and how you would address one or more of the key questions. Papers that give examples from the UK and different national contexts (including comparative studies, critiques of the green business agenda, and theorisation of the green collar economy) are particularly welcome.

Research

1. Addressing climate change: Determinants of consumers’ willingness to act and support policy measures

This new journal article outlines the different ways of addressing climate change, and then examines which determinants influence people’s willingness to engage in these behaviours. A large-scale mail survey was carried out in Switzerland whereby respondents rated, among other items, their willingness to act or support a range of possible actions and mitigations measures. Multiple regression analyses showed that perceived costs and perceived climate benefit turned out to be the strongest predictors for willingness to act or to support climate policy measures. Political affiliation also proved to be another strong determinant of willingness to act or support. Participants on the right wing were less willing to show indirect climate-friendly behaviours, change their mobility behaviours, and to support any type of climate mitigation policy measures.

More…

Events

1. Planet Earth Institute seminar- ‘What should Post 2015 look like? You DECIDE!’

21st March 2013, London
2015 will be a crucial year for the international development agenda, with the deadline for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, established in 2000 when nations and international organisations promised to alleviate people from extreme poverty and reduce multiple deprivations. Before then, the international community must decide what should be the focus of Post 2015 framework. The Planet Earth Institute (PEI) is hosting an interactive policy roundtable in the House of Lords to explore the opinion of delegates on three sets of topics, which are the central for the work of the PEI: Is it now the time to focus on post-secondary education? Is business now an equal partner in the Post 2015 agenda? Should we prioritise poverty eradication over environmental protection? Delegates are going to be asked to vote on each set of topics before and after the presentations from the panel and followed by an open discussion.

More…

2. Book Launch- China and the Environment: The Green Revolution

11th April 2013, London
A book launch will be held to celebrate the release of a new book called ‘China and the Environment: The Green Revolution’. Edited by Sam Geall, Executive Editor of bilingual environmental website chinadialogue, and with an introduction by Isabel Hilton, China and the Environment provides a unique report on the experiences of citizens responding to environmental problems in contemporary China. Isabel Hilton, Editor and CEO of chinadialogue, will chair a discussion about China’s ecological crisis and the role of civil society in addressing environmental problems. The panel includes: Sam Geall, Editor of China and the Environment; Bernice Lee, Research Director on Energy, Environment and Resource Governance at Chatham House; and Sara Parkin, Founder Director of Forum for the Future.

More…

3. Launch Event- EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change

29th April 2013, Brussels
The European Commission is currently developing an EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change. This Strategy will be launched at a conference that brings together policy makers and practitioners working on adaptation to the impacts of climate change. The one-day event will provide an opportunity to present and discuss the EU Strategy on adaptation to climate change, the framework it establishes, its main focus areas and suggested actions. The overall goal is to support coherent, multi-level, multi-sector integrated adaptation policies in the EU. More information including the agenda and registration details are available online.

More…

4. Shifting Gears: Making cycling a policy priority for health and sustainability

Tuesday 2nd July 2013, University of the West of England, Bristol
This national one-day conference responds to the new opportunities created by the changing policy landscape for cycling in the UK and the challenge of increasing population levels of physical activity. It brings together professionals, policy makers and academics to explore the interface between research and the radical shifts in policy, culture and ‘infrastructure’ provision that are required to support the large-scale uptake of cycling for transport and leisure. By drawing on evidence from research and practice, the conference will explore the benefits of cycling for health and sustainability and the role that public health, built environment and sustainability sectors can play in bringing about wholesale change in the cycling culture of the UK. Confirmed speakers include: Jon Snow, Journalist & Presenter, Channel 4 News; Malcolm Shepherd, Chief Executive, Sustrans; Steffen Rasmussen, Head of Traffic Design, City of Copenhagen; George Ferguson, Mayor of Bristol; and Dr. Miles Elsden, Deputy Chief Scientific Officer, Department for Transport.

More…

Online

1. Re3 video interview on environmental fiscal reform

Re3 (Review of Environment, Energy and Economics) is a tool for the dissemination of the work and research-based policy analysis of FEEM researchers and leading international scholars, covering the areas of environmental and energy economics and policy. The Re3 website has recently posted a video interview with Anil Markandya, Scientific Director for the Basque Centre for Climate Change, on environmental fiscal reform. In the video, Markandya outlines his definition of environmental fiscal reform, the associated impacts and main concerns with such reform, and whether he thinks implementing fiscal reform is really feasible.

More…

2. First phase of OurGreenDeal.net

The first phase of OurGreenDeal.net, a website that allows householders to find out about Green Deal-related activity going on near them (so far, across Somerset) has recently been launched. The website also helps people find local Green Deal accredited assessors and installers, and in the future will feature case studies of homes that have been improved, customer reviews of installers and assessors, and mapping tools so that users can find out what’s happening near them.

More…

3. Outdoor Nation Blog Posting

An interesting opinion piece by Max Wind-Cowie from Demos is included as a recent blog posting for Outdoor Nation. In the blog, Max argues that we need to revisit our attitude towards risk and be more realistic in how we manage risk otherwise kids will never get to fully experience the wonder and joy of nature.

More…

New Publications

1. Proceedings from the CONSENSUS International Conference 2012

The CONSENSUS International Conference took place at the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) on the 18-20th of May, 2012. CONSENSUS (consumption, environment and sustainability) is a four-year, collaborative, Irish research project led by Trinity College Dublin in partnership with the NUIG. The conference provided an international forum for the exchange of pioneering research in the field of sustainable consumption. In addition, it enabled the exploration of potential future research collaborations between prominent sustainable consumption researchers and networks. A series of presentations and panel discussions at the conference provided a landscape of the breadth and scope of research currently being undertaken in the field of sustainable consumption. A document has recently been drafted that summarises the principal conference proceedings and discussion points, including the challenges and futures of sustainable consumption and related research across disciplines and international frameworks.

More…

2. CSE report ‘Distribution of carbon emissions in the UK: Implications for domestic energy policy’

A team from the Centre for Sustainable Energy and partners has used advanced modelling techniques to look at the distribution of carbon emissions across households in Great Britain, and the impact of existing Government energy and climate policies on consumer energy bills and household emissions in England. The research found that: the richest 10 per cent of households emit three times more carbon than the poorest 10 per cent from energy use in the home and personal travel; current policies to reduce household carbon emissions create a triple injustice – the lowest-income households pay more, benefit less from policies and are responsible for the least emissions; and there is an alternative approach that could reduce carbon reductions by around 77 million tonnes through a ‘retrofit’ of England’s housing stock, funded by taxation and other measures. Some of the key statistics from the research are highlighted in new infographics.

More…

3. New Friends of the Earth Europe Report

The new Friends of the Earth report, ‘Hidden Impacts’, is based on newly available data and sheds light on Europe’s role as a major user of global land resources. It examines the inter-linkages between our material use and related land requirements and, through demonstrating this link, highlights the very urgent need to scale down our excessive consumption of this resource in the interests of maintaining the regenerative capacity of the biosphere, as well as conserving resources for future generations. A particularly interesting finding in the report is that the EU is effectively importing the equivalent of 1,212,050 square kilometres of land to meet its demand for food (45% of the land it needs for the production of the food it consumes).

More…

4. New working paper series by 3S Research Group

A new series of publications aims to spark debate in environmental social science by bringing fresh thinking and cutting-edge research to a public audience. The 3S Research Group brings together 33 academics in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia, and was established in 2011. Its work focuses on critical social science approaches to researching the social and political dimensions of environment and sustainability issues. Launched in 2012, the series has published 17 papers to date and covers topics such as community energy; science, climate change and democracy; technologies of participation; understanding energy use in the home; alternative economic geographies; grassroots innovations; and issues of politics in science policy. All of the papers can be accessed online at www.3s.uea.ac.uk/publications/working-papers

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: ‘Jobs and Training’ Section

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliott.

Network news

Calls

Research

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Network news

1. New Eco Innovation Observatory report on Green Economy

The 2012 annual report by the Eco Innovation Observatory- ‘Europe in transition: Paving the way to a green economy through eco-innovation’- is a recent noteworthy publication that provides a handbook for policy makers who seek to push society and economy in more sustainable directions. This third annual report argues that transition to a sustainable economy based on eco-innovation requires systemic change and “new collaborations to create functional systems that integrate environmental sustainability at their core,” Thirty-five specific recommendations are outlined in the report, addressed to policy makers participating in the Eco-Innovation Action Plan (EcoAP) High Level Working Group, and European Commission, however, the recommendations are equally relevant to policy makers at other levels. The recommendations can be grouped into 5 key summary points as follows:
1. A shared understanding of the eco-innovation challenge needs to be built, with acceptance among key stakeholders of the basic vision. Innovation partnerships and demonstration projects can help build understanding about the core objectives.
2. Targets and milestones have a part to play and can make the vision more concrete. Specific eco-innovation targets, such as for resource efficiency, should be developed.
3. Policy needs to become more able to deal with systemic problems, rather than regulating, for example, environment, transport and energy in silos. For this reason, a European Innovation Partnership on system eco-innovation could be added to the EcoAP.
4. Indicators and monitoring of eco-innovation should be further developed.
5. Policy-level integration is needed to address the complexity of the sustainability challenge. For example, an eco-innovation policy unit could be formed within the European Commission, drawing staff from different directorates-general, and from agencies and the European Investment Bank.

More…

Calls

1. Invitation to comment- IPCC Fifth Assessment Report

The First Order Draft (FOD) of the Working Group III (mitigation) contribution to the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report was available for expert review from 20 July 2012 to 14 September 2012. The report has now been revised by the authors in response to comments received and the Second Order Draft (SOD) will undergo simultaneous review by governments and experts up until 22 April 2013. The UK Government is encouraging anyone with expertise in the field of climate change mitigation, of which energy is a critical part, to participate in this review. Those interested in acting as an expert reviewer can register online at http://www.ipcc-wg3.de/ar5review/

More…

2. Call for Papers- Handbook of Sustainable Water Use and Management

Papers are now invited for a new book that will document and disseminate experiences, approaches, methods and projects focusing on sustainable water management and the sustainable use of water resources worldwide. The book will also evaluate the sustainability of water sources and identify potential risks regarding future water supply. Expressions of interest should relate to mature ideas, initiatives and projects, which can be formulated as book chapters in a relatively short time. The deadline for submissions of abstracts is the 30th March 2013 and papers are due by the 30th July 2013. The book will be edited by Walter Leal Filho (HAW Hamburg, Germany) and Vakur Sumer (Selcuk University, Turkey). Expressions of interest should be sent to Dr. Vakur Sümer at vsumer@gmail.com.

3. Invitation to comment- Sustainable Development Strategy for the Health and Care System 2014-2020

The NHS Sustainable Development Unit is running a consultation and engagement programme in order to produce a new Sustainable Development Strategy for the Health, Public Health and Social Care System to 2020. Building on the NHS Carbon Reduction Strategy (2009), the new strategy will outline practical steps that need to be taken to move the health system further on the journey towards sustainable healthcare delivery. One of the points of discussion that will be raised as part of the consultation include whether we should widen the approach beyond carbon reduction to include other areas of sustainable development. The consultation consists of 7 core questions and the opportunity to write general comments.

More…

Research

1. Research on the health effects of biofuel production

A paper published in Nature Climate Change suggests that planting certain trees for use as a biofuel source, near populated areas, is likely to increase human deaths due to inhalation of ozone. Researchers from the Lancaster Environment Centre who led the project found that the natural chemicals released through the growth of trees such as poplar and willow can interact with other air pollutants and lead to increased levels of ozone in the air which might also lead to lower crop yields. Biofuels are seen as a suitable alternative to oil and coal in the bid to reduce carbon dioxide and mitigate global warming. Because of this, the EU has set strong targets to replace ten per cent of transport fuel with biofuels by 2020. However, these new findings suggest the health and agricultural costs may outweigh any benefits to the climate, with an additional 1300 ozone related deaths predicted each year if enough of these kinds of biomass trees are planted to reach the EU target.

More…

Events

1. What is sustainable development and how can we achieve it?

Wednesday 13th of March, London School of Economics
Professor Jeffrey D Sachs, world-renowned professor of economics and leader in sustainable development, will be speaking at a free public lecture organised by the London School of Economics in association with the LSESU Energy Society. The topic for the event will be on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and developing a policy and normative framework for achieving them. Although the event is free and open to all, a ticket is required and should be requested via the online ticket request form which will be live from 10pm on Wednesday 6 March.

More…

2. Social enterprise and environmental sustainability: challenges and opportunities

16 April 2013, Cardiff City Hall, Cardiff
There are many examples of social enterprises creating positive environmental impacts. While they are not all motivated by environmental concerns, the social enterprise model may enable business success to be combined with sustainability. This event brings together researchers, policy makers and practitioners to discuss: How can social enterprise help create a more sustainable world? And how can policy and research help promote environmentally focused social enterprise? Speakers include representatives from Defra, as well as local social enterprises and researchers. The event will include case studies from practitioners of their experience in community energy and waste social enterprises. It is jointly organised by the Third Sector Research Centre and the Centre for Business Relationships, Accountability, Sustainability and Society (BRASS).

More…

3. Energy, climate and society: Insights from early-career researchers

Thursday 18th April 2013, 5.30-8pm, University of Westminster, London W1T 3UW
Cutting-edge social science can make a vital contribution to policy on energy and climate change.  This event, sponsored by the BSA Climate Change Study Group, will promote knowledge sharing between researchers and the policy community on the social dimensions of these urgent issues.  Delegates will have the opportunity to hear new researchers present the latest findings on topics related to energy and climate, such as: social networks and communities; the diffusion and adoption of innovations; public understanding and participation; future scenarios and the politics of uncertainty; environmental narratives and discourses; and attitudes, behaviours and practices around sustainability.  Responses will be provided by key members of the policy community, including Matt Lipson from DECC and David Fell, founder-director of research and strategy consultants Brook Lyndhurst, and all delegates will have the opportunity to share their insights, ideas and questions. Places are limited, and early booking is recommended (£5 for BSA members, £10 for non-members).

More…

4. Online Health Impact Assessment (HIA) comprehensive pilot course

24 June 2013, Online
For those who are interested in attending the International Health Impact Assessment Consortium (IMPACT) comprehensive HIA course, but are unable to travel to Liverpool, IMPACT will be piloting an online version of the course planned to start on June 24th. As a pilot, delegates will be offered a discounted fee on this occasion. Those interested in taking part in the pilot group should contact impact@liv.ac.uk or +44(0)151-794 5004.

Online

1. Video- ‘How community projects come about’

This video has been released as part of the PlanLoCaL project by the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE), and highlights examples of how people have been inspired to develop renewable energy projects within their communities. The aim of the PlanLoCal project is to help communities influence local planning policy and contribute to a low-carbon and renewable energy future.

More…

2. New mapping tool for assessing water risk

World Resources Institute has recently released its new Aquaduct mapping tool that provides businesses, governments, and other decision makers with the highest-resolution, most up-to-date data on water risk across the globe. The Aquaduct Water Risk Atlas combines twelve water risk indicators to create maps of where and how water risks may be prevalent. It also includes nine pre-set industry sector indicator weights (e.g. agriculture, oil and gas, mining etc.) so that businesses operating in these sectors can look at a picture of global water risk tailored to their industry. It is hoped that with this information, decision-makers can better understand how water risk impacts them, and hopefully take actions to improve water security.

More…

3. Climate Week

This week is Climate Week, Britain’s biggest climate change campaign aimed at inspiring a new wave of action to create a sustainable future. Each year, half a million people attend 3,000 events in Britain’s biggest ever environmental occasion. Events are run by schools, businesses, charities, councils and many others. Noteworthy events this year include: Ecobuild (the world’s largest green building show); a panel debate on climate change and growth (organised by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills); and a talk on the Energy Bill (hosted by the Department for Transport). An online map of events taking place throughout the week is available online at: http://www.climateweek.com/find-an-event/

More…

New Publications

1. Greenpeace report on livestock

This document describes Greenpeace’s vision for ecological livestock, outlining the main impacts of the current destructive industrial livestock system, and the basis for a shift to global sustainable animal production. Whilst not a policy document, the report does outline options for reducing livestock production and consumption to fit within ecological limits, with a focus on Europe.

More…

2. UKERC report on the UK Energy System in 2050

The UK Energy Research Centre has released a report which outlines how the UK energy system might look in 2050. The report entitled ‘The UK Energy System in 2050: Comparing Low-Carbon, Resilient Scenarios’ reports new scenario projections for the UK energy system to 2050, and compares them with earlier projections, using the UK MARKAL energy system model. Some interesting conclusions drawn in the report include: by 2030, the UK electricity system will need to be decarbonised by at least 80% from the level in 2000; by 2050, individual gas boilers used to heat homes will be largely a thing of the past, with electricity making a major contribution to heating, supplemented by biomass and solar thermal; and by 2050, the vehicles on our roads will be very different to the ones we see today, with the majority powered either by electric batteries or hydrogen fuel cells.

More…

3. GGAL report on the green economy

Within the next generation, the planet will become home to approximately 9 billion people. This will create an unprecedented demand for water, food, and energy-and stress the supporting infrastructure required for life in the 21st century. ‘The Green Investment Report’ by the Green Growth Action Alliance (GGAL) explores how we can meet this demand while respecting planetary boundaries, and importantly, how we may pay for it.

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs & Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliott.

Contents:

Calls
Events
Online
New Publications
Jobs and Training

Calls

1. Call for entrants: The Mary Langham Essay Competition 2013

The Pioneer Health Foundation invites students to submit an essay to the 2013 Mary Langman Essay Competition, on the theme ‘The Peckham Experiment and its relevance in the 21st century’. The Peckham Experiment was a unique health centre that operated in Peckham, south London, from 1926 – 50. The Centre pioneered research into the nature of health and its relation to environment, and its work will still resonate with anyone interested in the promotion of wellbeing, education, preventative health care, local food systems or sustainability, among other areas; for more information visit www.thephf.org. PHF sponsors an annual Essay Competition intended to encourage thinking that crosses boundaries between disciplines. It is open to students studying for any type of degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) and offers a £500 prize, as well as the opportunity for the winning essay to be published on the PHF website. The competition asks entrants to express their own views on current problems of individual social and community health and wellbeing with reference to the principal findings of the Peckham Experiment. See the website www.marylangmanprize.org.uk for details, suggested background reading and relevant topics. The deadline for essays, which should be no more than 3000 words, is 1st April 2013. If you have any questions about the competition, please email the PHF’s Secretary, Kate McGeevor (katemcgeevor@hotmail.com).

More…

2. Call for bids: Environmental Audit Committee seeks external research analysis on energy subsidies

To provide the foundation for a new inquiry on energy subsidies, the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee is inviting bids to undertake analysis on how energy subsidies are defined, and their extent in the UK for each sector (fossil fuel, gas, renewables, nuclear, etc). They seek bid responses by 26th February, with the results of the work completed by 31 March. More details on the EAC website….

More…

3. Call for papers: Modelling Sustainable Urban Transition Dynamics

This International Symposium will be held on 3rd-4th July 2013 in Cardiff, and will offer a platform for interdisciplinary collaborations regarding long term urban planning, bringing together academics and practitioners to discuss experiences, opportunities and limitations of using system dynamics modelling approaches to investigate suitable urban transition, and a special journal issue in a leading journal will be sought. Funding may be available for travels and accommodations in the UK for invited speakers.  The deadline for extended abstracts (200-400 words) is 15st March 2013. For more information, please see their website or contact Paula Mullins at Mullins at PJ@cardiff.ac.uk or Dr. Yangang Xing at yxing@cardiff.ac.uk.

More…

4. Call for posters: 5th International Conference on Carbon Accounting - Into the future with rules and tools for carbon management

This conference will be held on the 13th March 2013, in Edinburgh. The programme will present developed and developing rules and tools for carbon accounting at all levels and provide an opportunity to meet and learn from accounting professionals, academics and policy practitioners. There will be sessions on the recent experience in the USA of harmonised carbon accounting for the energy sector. Abstracts of up to 300 words must be submitted to the organisers by the 28th February 2013. More…

More…

Events

1. The Green Deal: delivery, costs and consumer engagement

Morning, Tuesday 12th March 2013, Sixty One Whitehall, London SW1A 2ET

Following its official launch last month, this seminar will be an timely opportunity for key policymakers and stakeholders to consider the delivery challenges for the Government’s Green Deal, which is designed to help householders and businesses increase the energy efficiency of properties across the UK.  As well as considering the implications of reaction to the announcement - including issues around financing, interest rates, and engagement with the public and businesses - delegates will assess the readiness of the insulation and building industries, utilities and other’s involved to successfully deliver the policy, and consider what more is required in terms of regulation, finance, workforce development and Government direction. The conference is organized by the Westminster Energy, Environment & Transport Forum includes keynote presentations from Philip Sellwood, Chief Executive, Energy Saving Trust and David Thomas, Deputy Director, Green Deal Demand, Department of Energy and Climate Change. More…

More…

2. Envecon 2013: Applied Economics Conference

Friday 15th March 2013, London

The UK Network of Environmental Economists (UKNEE) is organising the ‘Applied Environmental Economics Conference’ on Friday 15th March 2013 at The Royal Society in London. Now in its 11th year, this one-day conference will bring together environmental economists from public and private sectors, academia and consultancy to share results of recent research and to discuss issues relevant to the practical application of environmental economics in the UK, Europe and elsewhere.Thirty papers will be presented in 8 parallel sessions, with topics ranging from climate change policy to economic appraisal. More…

More…

3. Joseph Rowntree Foundation event - How can we fairly and effectively meet our climate change targets?

Wednesday 13th March 2013, No 11 Cavendish Square (home of The Kings Fund), London, W1G 0AN

This event will launch two new JRF research reports Distribution of carbon emissions in the UK: Implications for domestic energy policy and Designing Carbon Taxation to Protect Low-Income Households which have been produced as part of the JRF Climate change and social justice programme. This event will be chaired by Fiona Harvey (Environment Journalist at the Guardian) and the Rt Hon Lord Deben PC (Chair of the Committee on Climate Change) will talk about issues of fairness in tackling climate change. The event will explore 1) how existing carbon reduction policies targeted at domestic energy use affect different households and how fair and effective these policies are; 2) how future carbon reduction policies, including carbon taxation, can be developed in a way which protects low-income households; and 3) how fuel poverty and carbon reduction policy agendas could be brought together more effectively. The event will also feature a number of expert led workshops and a panel discussion on why fairness matters and what needs to be done to ensure this is considered in responding to climate change. The event is free of charge - please contact Michelle Atkins on 01904 615905 or michelle.atkins@jrf.org.uk to register.

More…

4. Global Sustainability Institute 1st Annual Research Conference 2013

May 15th 2013, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge Campus

The Global Sustainability Institute (GSI) is holding its first Annual conference on the 15th of May 2013. The conference will look at the big sustainability challenges we are faced with today, and will provide a range of approaches from different disciplines to address these. Contributions relating to health, technology, culture, science, policy and many other areas are strongly encouraged to highlight the broad range of challenges and solutions that exist. The conference’s theme will be: Big Challenges and Creative Solutions and will have 2 main sessions: 1) What are the global sustainability challenges? And 2) What sustainability solutions can we offer? The Conference will have an innovative structure to maximise networking, sharing of knowledge and encouraging collaboration. Presentations will be 5 minutes in length and in the format of 3-slide powerpoint presentations. More…

More…

Online

1. Climate Week seeking support for Early Day Motion on decarbonisation target in the Energy Bill

Climate Week, taking place from 4 – 10 March, is Britain’s largest campaign against climate change with over half a million people taking part in more than 3,000 events in 2012. They have created a declaration calling on the government to maintain support for the Climate Change Act and introduce a decarbonisation target into the Energy Bill, as recommended by the Committee on Climate Change. The Climate Week Declaration has been launched as an Early Day Motion in Parliament and now has the support of the TUC, the Grantham Institute for Climate Change, Lord Stern, Aldersgate Group, UK Sustainability and Finance Association (UKSIF) and Tony Juniper. Climate Weeks is currently building support for a more public launch in the next day or two. More…

More…

2. New website - Eco research

Eco research is a real-time updated guide to media coverage on climate change, including social media. You can display and organise information about what is being reported in the media on climate change in multiple different ways. Our thanks to the excellent Talking Climate for flagging this up. More…

More…

New Publications

1. SEI report - Global Ageing and Environmental Change: Attitudes, Risks and Opportunities

Recent natural disasters illustrate vulnerability of older people: majority of deaths from the Great East Japan Earthquake (2011) and Hurricane Katrina (2005) occurred among older people.Researchers at the Stockholm Environment Institute at the University of York and Simon Fraser University’s Gerontology Research Centre in Canada are calling for better awareness among policy makers and the public of the impact climate change and deteriorating environmental quality will have on an ageing population. In order to effectively manage the impacts associated with environmental change it will be necessary to confront and integrate social dimensions in adaptation planning. This requires a better understanding of the effects a changing environment will have on older people at the local, regional, national and international level and in different geographical and socio-economic contexts. This study reviews the key issues relevant to global ageing and environmental change. It examines older people not only in terms of their vulnerability to environmental threats but as contributors to environmental sustainability. More…

More…

2. UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) report - Climate change and energy security: Assessing the impact of information and its delivery on attitudes and behaviour

In a new report from Glasgow University, based on a series of focus groups with members of the UK public, researchers led by Prof. Greg Philo studied the impact of media coverage on public attitudes towards climate change and energy security. The core of this research project was to analyse the role of the media, which has been said by the Chair of the Intergovernmental panel on Climate Change (IPCC), to have played a central role in spreading awareness of climate change. The project’s focus on public trust in different bodies in light of the increasingly diverse range of views on climate change within the media offers an insight into the impact of different actors and the message that they are portraying. The report found that there is widespread public confusion over climate change which reflects the journalistic construction of the subject as one of uncertainty. Most people have only a vague understanding of the science, and believe it is inconsistent anyway. It also found that People do not trust politicians, and as these are some of the voices they hear most frequently on the subject, that has led to further disengagement. More…

More…

3. IPPR report – Sustainable Consumption in the UK: a selection of case studies

This report presents case studies of best practice in achieving sustainable consumption in the UK. These case studies exemplify ways in which people can be helped, encouraged or compelled to live more sustainably, either directly or indirectly. The first set of four case studies relate to initiatives led by, or involving, government to restrict or inform consumers’ product choice around a particular class of product. The second set of case studies (including Love Food Hate Waste) focuses on the role of large-scale public campaigns to raise awareness of sustainable livelihood issues. The third set of case studies (including Defra’s Pro-Environmental Behaviours Framework; and the Transitions Networks) relate to capacity-building initiatives; and the final case studies show how two different actors are leading sustainable consumption initiatives in the UK. More…

4. London Sustainable Development Commission Report - London’s Quality of Life Indicators 2012 report

The LSDC’s fourth Quality of Life Indicators report, launched at City Hall on 30th January 2013, provides a snapshot of London’s quality of life and identifies the sustainability issues London faces.  The indicator set encompasses 33 headline indicators across the environmental, social and economic spheres.  It provides baseline data that will inform the Commission’s future work programme and advice to the Mayor. Overall, the direction of travel for the Quality of Life indicator set is positive, and London has improved on 17 of the 33 indicators since the 2008-09 Quality of Life report. More…

More…

5. New book - Enterprising Communities: Grassroots Sustainability Innovations, edited by Prof. Anna Davies

This book provides an internationally grounded and critical review of grassroots sustainability enterprises, specifically focusing on the processes that lead to their formation, the governing context that shapes their evolution, the benefits they create and the challenges that they face in different contexts. This is the first internationally focused study of grassroots sustainability enterprises that covers such a range of environmental sectors. For the first time grassroots sustainability enterprises and their actions and impact receive comprehensive academic analysis from the perspective of their contribution towards more resilient development. The book begins by defining the term and placing it in context, looking at contemporary agendas in sustainability innovation and enterprise, and sustainability impacts and grassroots enterprises. It then examines a variety of grassroots sustainability enterprises such as low-impact housing in the UK, eco-villages in Ireland, community gardening in Germany and turtle conservation in Costa Rica. It concludes by looking ahead to the future at governing frameworks for grassroots sustainability enterprises and smart green clean-tech economy. More…

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN jobs and training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Bridget Elliot.
To join or leave this list, please email Bridget Elliot.

Contents:

Network news
Calls
Research
Events
Online
New Publications
Jobs and Training

Network news

1. ‘Mainstreaming sustainable development research in an age of austerity’ - SDRN Review of the UK Sustainable Development Research and Policy Landscape

The Sustainable Development Research Network (SDRN) has recently undertaken a review of the UK research and policy landscape for cross-cutting sustainability research.  It covers the period 2006-2012, and three key aspects are addressed: 1. The continuing need to achieve greater effectiveness in research funding coordination & priorities, a more favourable institutional context for professional learning and careers, and enhanced boundary capabilities between knowledge and users for both policy and innovation.  2. Emerging challenges from a wider diversity of arenas of users, funders, & researchers, and the growing importance of multiple levels of governance 3. New policy pressures including the increased difficulties of strategic choices under constraints on public funding; and a sharper political contestation of economic and environmental goals. An initial version of the Review is on the SDRN website for comment: http://www.sd-research.org.uk/post.php?p=1852 Please send all comments to info@sd-research.org.uk by 4th March 2013. A final version of the Review will be published in March 2013.

More…

Calls

1. Call for papers for workshop on ‘Constructing and contesting spaces for low-carbon energy innovation’

A call for papers has been issued for a workshop on ‘Constructing and contesting spaces for low-carbon energy innovation’. The workshop will take place from 26th-28th November 2013 at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands, with hotel accommodation and meals supplied, but not travel expenses. The workshop aims to bring together leading scholars who study the construction and disruption of socio-political ‘spaces’ for low-carbon energy innovations from different conceptual and theoretical perspectives, and will welcome abstracts from various analytical perspectives. Abstracts (max 300 words) should be submitted to r.p.j.m.raven@tue.nl by 1st April 2013.

2. Call for Evidence: Co-Production models and their relevance to Sustainable Development in Wales

Brook Lyndhurst is undertaking research for the Welsh Government to investigate the potential role of co-production models in sustainable development. The objectives of the research are to assess the applicability of co-production models to the work of the Welsh Government and its delivery partners, and produce a set of principles for developing environmental co-production projects in Wales. The research will be based on a rapid evidence review of co-production models and case-studies to highlight key barriers and success factors in the delivery of co-production on the ground.  The researchers would welcome contributions, suggestions or links to any evidence that may inform the research.  Please contact tim.knight@brooklyndhurst.co.uk, tel: 020 8846 2100, with the details of anything you wish to contribute by 12th February.

3. Call for Papers - Energy Vulnerability Factors and Pathways: Towards a Research and Policy Agenda

This event aims to bring together academic scholars, non-governmental organisations and policy-makers to consider the ‘pathways to vulnerability’ through which individuals and communities become exposed to fuel/energy poverty. It is hoped that this will enable different groups of researchers to come together with interests and expertise in understanding the spatial and temporal aspects of vulnerability and the role of energy-related rights, needs and entitlements. This UKERC-supported event will take place from 21st - at the University of Manchester, and will be followed by a researchers’ seminar featuring presentations and discussion among established researchers and members of the policy community on 22-23 May. Paper abstracts should be no longer than 300 words and sent to Komalirani Yenneti (kxy038@bham.ac.uk), Robert Marchand (rmarchand1@sheffield.ac.uk), Rose Chard (r.chard1@lancaster.ac.uk) and Stefan Bouzarovski (stefan.bouzarovski@manchester.ac.uk) by Monday, 1st of April. Catering and accommodation are supplied if your paper is accepted, and there is no registration fee.

4. Call for papers: ‘Information and Communications Technology for Environmental Regulation: Developing a Research Agenda’

This workshop will take place at the National University of Ireland, Galway, Thursday 20 June - Friday 21 June 2013. As society considers how to alter individual, social and economic choices in order to better deal with the challenges of climate change, loss of biodiversity and environmental pollution, the continuing refinement of more effective means of environmental regulation requires urgent attention. Information and communications technology (ICT) can play an important role in this process. While there is some research on how ICT can be used for environmental regulation, we have not yet developed a full understanding of the issues. The aim of this workshop is to build a network of researchers dealing with these issues in order to prepare joint projects, funding applications and work towards an international conference dealing with this topic. Papers are invited from scholars and practitioners across all disciplines for a workshop on the application of information and communications technology for environmental regulation. Abstracts (maximum 500 words) are to be submitted by Friday 15 March 2013. For more information, please see

More…

5. Call for abstracts - Global Sustainability Institute Conference: ‘Big Challenges, Creative Solutions’

The inaugural research conference of the Global Sustainability Institute will be held on 15 May in Cambridge. They are seeking submissions from those working in all areas related to sustainability, from within academia, business, civil society and government. The conference will identify and investigate the big sustainability challenges that we are faced with today and provide a range of creative solutions from different disciplines to address these. A number of papers will be selected for submission to a special issue of the journal Sustainability.

The Conference will have an innovative structure to maximise networking, sharing of knowledge and encouraging collaboration. Presentations will be 5 minutes in length and in the format of 3-slide PowerPoint presentations. The organisgers will also be showcasing work through poster presentations. The day will consist of participant presentations and workshops, as well as a ‘Question Time’ style debate with brief presentations from panel members, and a keynote address. Further details, and the abstract submission form, can be found here…

More…

6. Greening Economics, Greening Society: What is the Role of the EU?

The Centre for Research on the European Matrix (CRonEM), School of Politics, has won a grant from the Institute of Advanced Studies to host a multi-disciplinary workshop on the 9th-10th May 2013 in the University of Surrey. The event will cross academic/policy-maker frontiers on how to green the economy and society of the EU – not only a transnational political system in its own right, but a major shaper of the global economic order and international environment policy. This call invites paper proposals and participation registrations for a multidisciplinary two-day workshop (primarily politics, law, psychology, environmental sciences/studies, business studies and philosophy) to address these issues by using the case of the European Union, which is often seen as the world’s ‘greenest’ actor but whose economic policies are still far from being ecologically-informed. Proposals should be of no more than 300 words, and should be submitted by 8th March 2013.

More…

Research

1. Journal of Urban Technology special issue ‘Eco-Cities in Pan-Asia: international discourses, local practices’

Across Asia, a series of national and international eco-city initiatives have been launched in recent years. The Journal of Urban Technology (volume 20/1; January 2013) special issue ‘Eco-Cities in Pan-Asia: international discourses, local practices’ brings together seven papers by leading scholars aimed at providing an overview of, and critical insights into, contemporary eco-city initiatives across a variety of Asian national contexts. The special issue is the result of an international conference held at Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore) in June 2011.

More…

Events

1. Natural Connections Conference – the bigger picture

6th March 2013, SOAS London

The theme for 2013 Natural Connections Conference is ‘the bigger picture’. It will include talks ranging from Defra’s progress in implementing the Natural Environment White Paper, to the Planning of the Great Barrier Reef. Themes include ‘learning from England’, ‘the Human dimension’, ‘Resources and Guidance’ and ‘Fresh Perspectives’.

More…

2. UKERC Summer School 2013

7th-12th July, University of Warwick

The UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) is holding its ninth annual Energy Summer School from 7-12th July 2013 at the University of Warwick in the English Midlands. There will be 100 places available for UK and international students. The School has been specifically designed to give second year PhD students an opportunity to look beyond their own research and develop an understanding of energy systems as a whole and pathways to low-carbon and resilient energy systems. The School welcomes applications from those engaged in energy-related research including technical, physical, social, economic, environmental and business aspects of energy and energy systems, and lecturers and supervisors can also nominate students to attend. There is no charge for registered research students to attend the School; UKERC will provide accommodation and all meals and materials for activities. The School is conducted in English, and as it is highly interactive a good standard of comprehension and spoken English is essential.

More…

Online

1. Legatum Institute Commission on Wellbeing

It is widely agreed that GDP is an important yet insufficient measure of national success. In an attempt to broaden the scope for public policy analysis, a lot of progress has been made on developing the measurement of individual wellbeing, but a lot remains to be done on how best to apply these data to policymaking. The Legatum Institute Commission on Wellbeing Policy has been launched to fill this gap and explore how wellbeing analysis can be usefully applied to policy. Chaired by former Cabinet Secretary Lord O’Donnell, the Legatum Institute Commission will run for approximately one year. The final Commission report will illustrate the strengths and limitations of wellbeing analysis and provide original and authoritative guidance on the implications for public policy. The Commission is politically independent, and include an international perspective in its work.

More…

2. Consultation on the Sustainable Development Strategy for the Health and Care System 2014-2020

The NHS Sustainable Development Unit has launched their consultation phase to produce The Sustainable Development Strategy for the Health, Public Health and Social Care System. Building on the Carbon Reduction Strategy the new strategy is not just for the NHS but embraces the whole health, public health and social care system. It will define where we need to be on the path to sustainable health care by 2020 and the measures and targets against which progress will be measured. Information and views gathered will help form the sustainable development plan from 2014-2020. The consultation closes at 5.00pm on 31 May 2013.

More…

3. New Online Guide to ‘Quality and Education for Sustainability in Higher Education’

The University of Gloucestershire has led a unique sector wide research project, which aimed to change the face of the higher education curriculum to make it more relevant to global sustainability challenges. Funded through the Higher Education Funding Council for England’s (HEFCE) Leadership Governance and Management Fund, it is the largest national project to deal with sustainability as a curriculum and whole-of-institution priority. The online guide contains video clips, insights, tips and adaptable tools for institutions, to support them in embedding EfS through quality assurance and enhancement systems. At institutional level, five pilot universities (University of Gloucestershire, Aston University, University of Brighton, University of Exeter and Oxford Brookes University) developed curriculum change projects to connect EfS with their current approaches to teaching and learning quality. The experiences and lessons from the pilots are embedded in the resource.

More…

4. New online newsletter – ‘Sustainable Development in Action’

The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, Rio+20, was an international conference focusing on implementation of sustainable development. A new UN newsletter aims to highlight the work carried out by Member States, the United Nations system, Major Groups and other relevant stakeholders in implementing sustainable development and ‘leading the way to the Future We Want’.

More…

New Publications

1. Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology briefing note (POSTnote) – Reporting Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Climate change is a global challenge addressed by a combination of international and domestic initiatives. Accurate inventories of greenhouse gas emissions are needed to ensure the integrity of these policies. This four-page POSTnote examines how greenhouse gas inventories are measured, reported and verified. It also covers the EU Emissions Trading System, The CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, and Mandatory Carbon Reporting.

More…

2. National Housing Federation Report – ‘Approaches to engaging households with their energy use’

The National Housing Federation has published its review of behaviour change and engagement research and practice. The report profiles the work housing associations are carrying out across England to help tenants cut their energy use and sets out key findings from recent academic research. This report is part of a larger research project called ‘Count us in’, which involves five pilot studies with 50-70 households over an 18-month period, with different interventions to cut energy bills by 5-10%.

More…

3. Trade Unions in the Green Economy - Working for the Environment

Combating climate change will increasingly impact on production industries and the workers they employ as production changes and consumption is targeted. Yet research has largely ignored labour and its responses. This book brings together sociologists, psychologists, political scientists, historians, economists, and representatives from international and local unions based in Australia, Brazil, South Africa, Taiwan, Spain, Sweden, the UK and the USA. Together they open up a new area of research: Environmental Labour Studies. The authors (Nora Räthzel and David Uzzell) ask what kind of environmental policies are unions in different countries and sectors developing. How do they aim to reconcile the protection of jobs with the protection of the environment? What are the forms of cooperation developing between trade unions and environmental movements, especially the so-called Red-Green alliances? Under what conditions are unions striving to create climate change policies that transcend the economic system?

More…

4. New book - Social and Sustainable Enterprise: Changing the Nature of Business

This new volume edited by Sarah Underwood, Richard Blundel, Anja Schaefer and Fergus Lyon, brings together some of the latest research evidence on entrepreneurship and its relationship with social and environmental sustainability.  It includes four chapters that address different aspects of sustainable entrepreneurship and the environmental impacts of enterprise: radical innovation strategies of environmental technology entrepreneurs in the horticulture sector; new business models for low-carbon energy generation; green entrepreneurship in the building industry; and the pursuit of environmental responsibility in micro-enterprises.

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs and Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website…

More…

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Ben Watson.
To join or leave this list, please email Bridget Elliot.

Calls

Research

Events

Online

New Publications

Jobs and Training

Calls

1. Building Research & Information Journal- Call for Abstracts

Building Research and Information (BRI) journal is publishing a special issue addressing the policy and practical aspects of energy retrofits for existing detached, semi-detached or terraced owner-occupied homes. Abstracts are invited on the following topics: factors that motivate or hinder people to undertake a low-energy renovation; factors influencing the scope of energy renovation (incremental or total renovation); the actual outcomes of energy renovations (predicted versus actual energy savings, costs, etc); the different types of segmentations according to energy renovations and household types; characteristics of DIY and craftsmen involved renovations; country specific factors and cultures of renovating; how households react to incentives and other policy initiatives; and the roles of public and private (finance) partners as a driving force. Abstracts that are approximately 500 words in length can be submitted for this special issue before 25th February 2013 to guest editor Kirsten Gram-Hanssen at kgh@sbi.aau.dk. Kirsten can also be contacted for any enquiries, in addition to BRI journal editor Richard Lorch (Richard@rlorch.net).

2. Theorising Governance Change for a Sustainable Economy- Call for Abstracts

The Innovation and Governance (IGov) research group is hosting a one-day workshop on theoretical approaches to understanding change in governance systems, with a particular focus on managing transformation to a more sustainable energy system and economy. The workshop- to be held on 30th April in London- is designed to explore and debate theories that have already been developed in other fields of social science to analyse change, and to apply these to better understand how to achieve transition to a more sustainable energy system and economy. The organisers would like to invite abstracts that may draw on approaches from: concepts of policy paradigm change; co-evolutionary theory and Multi-level Perspectives on sustainable transitions; and new institutionalist approaches. It is hoped that the workshop will lead to the production of a joint publication, such as a special edition in a relevant journal or an edited book.

More…

3. Green Budgeting Workshop - Call for Papers

The UK Economic and Social Research Council are holding a workshop on green budgeting as part of its seminar series on the green economy. The workshop entitled ‘Green budgeting: integrating sustainability for governance?’ will explore how environmental objectives are being integrated into government fiscal cycles through the generation of nationally comparative data; the facilitators and constraints on integration in different national contexts; the degree to which budgeting is contributing to both the green economy and the wider goal of sustainable development; and the scope for learning and policy lessons drawing between national contexts. To propose a paper for the seminar, submit an abstract of approximately 500 words by the 1st February 2013 to David Benson (d.benson@uea.ac.uk) and Duncan Russel (d.j.russel@ex.ac.uk) carefully explaining how it fits in with the aims of the seminar and how you would address the key questions. Examples of green budgeting from different national contexts including comparative studies, critiques of the green budgeting agenda, and theorisation of the green budgeting process are particularly welcome. The best papers will be selected for inclusion in an application for an academic journal special issue.

4. FutureBuild 2013- Call for Abstracts

An international conference and networking event dedicated to the design of the built environment in 2030 to 2050 and beyond will take place at the University of Bath from 4th-6th of September 2013. Abstracts are currently being invited for people to present in various capacities. The conference will be aimed at an international academic and industrial audience interested in the development of radical designs, technologies and approaches to constructing and organising the built environment and the society that uses it from the point of view of meeting the challenges of the future. Those interested in building physics, energy systems, networks, climate adaptation, energy in buildings, IT, architecture, social science and urban planning are encouraged to attend.

More…

Research

1. New Research on Melting Ice-Sheets

Glaciologists fear they may have grossly underestimated the potential for melting ice sheets to contribute to catastrophic sea-level rises in coming decades. An article recently published in the Nature Climate Change journal provides a formalized pooling of expert views on uncertainties in future ice-sheet contributions. The study finds that the median estimate of sea level rise due to the melting of the ice sheets in this century is 29 cm—substantially larger than the estimates given in the in the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. In addition to the concern over sea-level rise is considerable uncertainty over whether the melting of the Greenland and West Antarctic Ice Sheet is due to natural variation or emissions of man-made greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

More…

Events

1. ‘At the Limit? 2020 Climate Group Seminar’

6th February 2013, Edinburgh
Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group are running a series of public engagement seminars which are designed to offer space for new conversations around some of the more challenging and controversial issues facing Scotland in regards to climate change. This first seminar will address the economic, environmental and social impacts speed limits have on our low carbon ambitions- is the “need for speed” at odds with our vision for a low carbon Scotland? Do we need to put the brakes on to reduce emissions? The free event will explore the wider issues around a measure that could help reduce Scotland’s carbon output.

More…

2. ‘Bioeconomy in the EU: achievements and directions for the future’

14th-15th February 2013, Dublin
Following the European Commission’s strategy and action plan for a sustainable European Bioeconomy, the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation is inviting participants to take part in a series of events on the topic. “Bioeconomy in the EU: achievements and directions for the future” is the second event in the series, and will be focusing on each of the different pillars of the bioeconomy strategy and action plan, including: investing in research, innovation and skills; reinforced policy interaction and stakeholder engagement; and enhancement of markets and competitiveness in bioeconomy sectors. Speakers at the conference will report on achievements- at EU, national, regional and local levels - with respect to the Action Plan and debate future prospects and opportunities for the EU Bioeconomy. The conference will provide a platform for informed and structured debate among a wide range of stakeholders using a series of key note speeches and panel discussions to illustrate the current situation and the issues at stake.

More…

3. ‘Energy Storage - Latest developments to capitalize, optimize and complement developments in renewable energy’

19th February 2013, Manchester
At this free lecture organised by Power Systems & Equipment TPN, John Baker- Manager of New Energy Technologies at EA Technology Consulting- will be presenting some of the latest developments in energy storage. Energy storage is an essential component in the successful realisation of renewable energy systems. While there is a lot of visibility about renewable energy initiatives worldwide, developments in the corresponding energy storage systems do not appear to enjoy a similar level of publicity. As well as outlining the latest developments in energy storage, Baker will explore the level of preparedness to capitalize, optimize and complement efforts within the overall renewable energy drive.

More…

4. ‘The Green Deal: delivery, costs and consumer engagement’

Tuesday, 12th March 2013, Central London
This seminar will focus on the key issues surrounding the implementation of the Government’s flagship policy on energy efficiency: the Green Deal. It is timed to take place shortly after the official repayment scheme has been introduced in January 2013, and following the ‘soft launch’ of the policy which has already taken place. Seminar attendees will have the opportunity to assess the readiness of the insulation and building industries, the utilities and the Government, to successfully deliver the policy and consider what more is required in terms of finance, skilled labour and consumer engagement. Discussion will also be focussed on how the policy is aligned with the Government’s mix of other low carbon initiatives, such as the rollout of smart meters and the delivery of the Renewable Heat Incentive.

More…

Online

1. OECD Better Life Index

A new index has been produced by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) that allows you to compare well-being across 36 countries, based on 11 topics the OECD has identified as essential. The interactive tool allows you to see how countries perform according to the importance you set for each of the 11 topics of community, education, environment, civic engagement, health, housing, income, jobs, life satisfaction, safety, and work-life balance. Performance is measured by way of 24 individual indicators that fall under these 11 topics, providing a concise snapshot of wellbeing in each country in an engaging way. However, it is questionable if it could be classified as a sustainable development index, as its focus is mostly on socio-economic aspects, and apart from indicators measuring air pollution and water quality, the state of the natural environment for each country is largely unmeasured.

More…

2. Online Questionnaire on Low-Carbon Vehicles

A new project funded by the Doctoral Training Centre in Low Carbon Technologies is exploring the impact of low carbon passenger vehicles on society. New Fuels, New Rules? aims to bring together the understanding of experts involved in the development and implementation of a low carbon vehicle fleet, by opening a dialogue between the disciplines of vehicle technology, transport policy and applied ethics, all of which must work together in order to secure a sustainable low carbon vehicle market. Following on from a workshop that took place in 2012, a questionnaire is now available to gather the views of those with experience in the field of low carbon vehicles and/or a broad knowledge of technologies and policies. The survey is available online and takes less than 30 minutes to complete.

More…

New Publications

1. UNEP Case Study Booklet- ‘Seeds of Knowledge: Contributing to Climate Change Solutions’

The United Nations Environment Programme has published ‘Seeds of Knowledge’, a booklet of 24 case studies from 17 countries on grassroots solutions to the impacts of climate change. The publication has a focus on developing and emerging economies and aims to show that grassroots, community-led responses are already playing an essential role in building resilience to climate change across all regions of the world. There are several different themes under which each of the case studies fall, ranging from ecosystems management, energy and water, to governance, capacity building and risk management to list just a few.

More…

2. New Book- ‘Sustainability in the Public Sector: An Essential Briefing for Stakeholders’

This new book by Sonja Powell, Founder Director of the Sustainable Development Bureau, is a quick-start guide aimed at a wide variety of public sector stakeholders. The book explores the history of the term ‘sustainable development’ and introduces basic sustainability theory. It highlights the realities of the politics behind the sustainable development agenda, alongside the responses of successive political administrations. A snapshot of how sustainable development is addressed in local government is also provided, along with who is responsible for various aspects of the UK’s 2050 carbon reduction targets is also provided.

More…

3. GLOBE Climate Legislation Study- ‘A Review of Climate Change Legislation in 33 Countries’

On 14 January 2013, the Global Legislators Organisation (GLOBE International) released the 3rd Climate Legislation Study – produced in partnership with the Grantham Research Institute at the London School of Economics. The report outlines the results of an audit conducted on climate legislation across 33 of the world’s major developed and emerging economies. The study has found that 32 of the 33 economies audited have progressed or are progressing significant climate and/or energy-related legislation. Much of the substantive progress on legislative activity on climate change in 2012 took place in emerging economies, including China, which will provide the motor of global economic growth in coming decades. This progress will deliver real benefits to national economies and, ultimately, give world leaders the political space to go further and faster in the UN negotiations, helping provide a foundation for a comprehensive, global deal by 2015.

More…

4. New Book- ‘Principles of Sustainable Aquaculture’

A new book by Stuart Bunting of the Centre for Environment and Society at the University of Essex is now available on developing sustainable aquaculture practices. The book is based on extensive evidence and knowledge of best practices, with guidance on appropriate adaptation and uptake in a variety of environmental, geographic, socio-economic and political settings. A range of case studies from around the world are included in the book, along with a tool-box of approaches to support widespread adoption and appropriate adaptation of regenerating aquaculture strategies, making it an ideal advanced-level textbook.

More…

Jobs and Training

1. SDRN Website: Jobs & Training

Jobs and Training opportunities around the Sustainable Development Research network are updated frequently on the ‘Jobs and Training’ page of the SDRN website… [http://www.sd-research.org.uk/jobs.php].

The SDRN Mailing is a moderated information resource and dissemination service for SDRN members. You can make use of this service by sending any information for inclusion in the mailing to Ben Watson.