Credit Vitaly Vlasov

UK alliance members are hosting a joint media event with a live Q&A at 10am today (Wednesday 18 November).

University alliance urges G20 leaders to prioritise net zero

A coalition of leading climate research universities is calling on world leaders to prioritise net zero carbon emissions.

The International Universities Climate Alliance, which includes the University of Exeter, was founded earlier this year as a hub for research and collaboration, and to support the global response to climate change.

In its first declaration – issued ahead of the G20 summit on 21 and 22 November – the alliance implores world leaders to learn from the Covid-19 pandemic to build towards carbon-neutral economies.

It warns that failure to do so will lock in catastrophic consequences for generations to come.

Professor Lisa Roberts, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, said: "The environment and climate emergency is an issue of vital global importance, and a major priority here at the University of Exeter. 

"Our experts are among the leading voices presenting the evidence and possible solutions, and we are proud to be part of the International Universities Climate Alliance.

“We are working with policymakers locally, nationally and globally to bring about real change and build a better future."

Professor Ian Jacobs, President and Vice-Chancellor of UNSW Sydney in Australia, a founding member of the Alliance, said: "Many challenges lie ahead of us in combatting the existential crisis in which the world finds itself.

"The International Universities Climate Alliance is a rich resource upon which governments, business, industry and the wider community can rely for evidence-based expert advice."

UK alliance members are hosting a joint media event with a live Q&A at 10am today (Wednesday 18 November).

The panel will include Dr Emma Page, Head of Sustainability at the University of Exeter.

Date: 18 November 2020