UNSW's newest climate institute to host first annual conference

28 Aug 2024
Polar ice caps with scientists

The UNSW Institute for Climate Risk & Response addresses the dangers of climate change by combining multiple areas of expertise.

Launched in September 2023, the UNSW Institute for Climate Risk & Response (ICRR) was established to address the increasing need for industry and government to have decision-useful information on responding to climate risks. The ICRR recognises that standard approaches to climate change are inadequate. Instead, what’s required is a combination of expertise from across various disciplines to tackle increasingly complex challenges. This includes expertise in physical climate science, business, economics, law and behavioural science.

In its first year, the ICRR has achieved significant milestones. It has built an interdisciplinary team, established its presence online and has conducted numerous consultations with businesses and government agencies to foster collaborations and partnerships. 

“This first year has provided us with the foundations for driving truly innovative research, professional education and real societal impact. We are very excited to look forward to the year ahead and build on the potential that our unique confluence of expertise brings to the very real challenge of responding to the risks of climate change,” said Professor Ben Newell, ICRR Director.

You can read more about ICRR’s research focus, including understanding and measuring eco-anxiety and its impact on youth, as well as bridging the gap between climate science and economic modelling.

The inaugural ICCR Conference 

The ICRR conference this spring is on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 October. This two-day event will bring together experts from academia, industry and government to explore the latest developments and opportunities in climate risk and response. 

Speakers include Professor Verity Firth, Vice-President of Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement, Senator the Hon. Jenny McAllister, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Professor Andrew Pitman, Climate Scientist, Professor Ben Newell, ICRR Director, and Jillian Broadbent, Director of Macquarie Group.

Day 1: Early Career Researchers’ Workshop - A unique opportunity to learn about interdisciplinary research, gain evidence-based insights and network with peers and leading professionals.

Day 2: Industry Forum - Leading experts will share real-world experiences, innovations and strategies for addressing climate risk

Find out more and register to attend.

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