Introduction
As part of the ongoing discussions surrounding COP29, Queen Mary, University of London recently hosted a panel discussion focusing on the outcomes of COP29 and how it has shaped the future of climate policy and action. This event, chaired by Zoe Sturgess, the Students' Union Sustainability Coordinator, brought together four key speakers: Dr Raymond Ward (School of Geography); Dr Benjamin Neimark (School of Business and Management); Dr Fernando Barrio (School of Business and Management) and PhD student Mathilda Lorkin (School of Law). Each speakers presented a valuable contribution to the next steps of the Nations Climate Change Conference and tangible actions which produces an impactful outcome.
Panel Discussions
The panel commenced with a compelling discourse on how climate change is profoundly affecting communities on a local and national scale. During the talk, it was outstanding to hear the varied levels of carbon emissions. Dr Raymond Ward stated an approximate 50% of salt marshals in the UK are lost due to blue carbon emissions releasing between 10 to 100 tonnes of carbon, or an inadequate quality of surveys and assessment conducted to challenge them. Dr Benjamin Neimark, meanwhile, considered the reaffirmation of COP 24’s purpose, and the military and governmental interventions within the geopolitical competition surrounding wartime emissions. Dr Fernando Barrio later reflected how A.I produces a sustainable framework and the consequences of extensive uses of A.I as a climate issue with PhD student Mathilda Lorkin explaining her research project in relation to climate action and further opportunities she’ll be undertaking as part of her ongoing study.
Our panelists highlighted that vulnerable populations, particularly those in low-income and marginalized communities, are disproportionately bearing the brunt of climate-related disasters. and on the geopolitics of climate change
Interviewing Mathilda Lorkin
I had the honour of interviewing one of the panellists: Mathilda Lorkin, a PhD student from the School of Law, about her inspiration behind her ongoing research. Originally, her research was inspired by her focus on the poor treatment on land grabbing especially in the power of Law. These factors influenced her research to take an environmental perspective for change and to contribute as part of a professional and meaningful change to climate action.
Mathilda's advice to students who wish to make a starting point or a substantial contribution to climate action?
"Make your degree into an understandable, positive change that is important to you; not to put yourself into a preconceived idea from institutions and doesn't betray your beliefs or ethics."
Lorkin encouraged students to understand the critical elements of climate action and knowing the consequences and the ethical issues surrounding climate change.
Conclusion
The panel discussion at Queen Mary, University of London, provided invaluable insights into the intersection of social, political, and cultural dynamics in addressing climate change. The consensus among the experts was clear: a multifaceted approach that encompasses equitable community support, strong political will, and widespread cultural engagement is essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and secure a sustainable future for all.