A New Conversation with the Centre-Right about Climate Change | 13.06.2013

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• published: 20 Jun 2013
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Climate change presents a significant long-term risk to the British and international environment and economy. However, some on the political right appear suspicious of taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Some are hostile to the climate science. Others worry that action to protect the environment is just a cover for more radical political aims. Another strand challenges the economics behind some of the policy measures being taken, and fear they threaten economic growth unnecessarily and may undermine green aims. This debate will consider whether there is a genuine problem with climate action on the right of politics and how those who care about the environment might be better able to persuade doubters of the need for policy intervention. It will also see the launch of new research by Climate Outreach & Information Network (COIN), funded by the BRASS research unit at Cardiff University, that examines the evidence for more effectively engaging centre-right citizens around climate change. In particular the event will consider: To what extent are right of centre audiences more suspicious of the science of climate change than other groups? What messages and arguments for climate action are more likely to resonate with a centre-right audience? How can those who care about environmental issues better communicate their concerns? What language should they use? How do politicians balance the weight of scientific evidence and political philosophy in deciding positions? Is appealing to other concerns like energy security or green growth the best way to build support for climate action or to alienate it? How should communications concerns inform decisions over policy choices? SPEAKERS (CHAIR) James Murray - Editor-in-chief, Business Green Zac Goldsmith MP - Conservative MP for Richmond Dr Adam Corner - Policy Advisor, COIN Claire Jakobsson - Executive Director, Conservative Environment Network Guy Newey - Head of Environment and Energy, Policy Exchange