Climate action requires transformative change away from the systems of consumption and production that embed climate pressures.

Ahead of the COP30 climate summit taking place in Brazil in November, the IES is focused on the issues that will shape the agenda. If we want to deliver meaningful climate action, we need a systemic perspective, so considering the most important systems is essential.

This panel discussion and roundtable will reflect on the core social and economic systems that we need to reimagine as we work towards a world with thriving people, a healthy economy, and a flourishing environment.

The event is free to attend and open to all.

Format and speakers

So that we have a productive discussion, we will begin with short presentations from a handful of expert speakers, before opening up the discussion into a roundtable format. The format will allow everyone to contribute their perspectives, but will also give you a chance to hear from leading professionals if you would prefer to 'take a back seat' in the discussion.

• Dr Uchenna Onyeizu is a Chartered Environmentalist (SocEnv, UK), Professional Fellow of the Nigerian Environmental Society, Environmental Professional-in-Training (Eco-Canada), agroecologist, and practicing farmer with over 25 years’ experience in environmental management, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development. As a UN-funded Project Coordinator in Nigeria, he merges academic, consultancy, and community leadership, contributing globally at major international forums.
• Dr Colin Church is the Chief Executive of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, the global network for the materials cycle. He is Chair of the Green Alliance-convened Circular Economy Task Force that aims to lead policy discussions with ambitious business thinking, and a member of the UK Government’s Circular Economy Taskforce. He is a Trustee of CHEM Trust and a Board Member of the Materials Processing Institute and the Federation of European Materials Societies.
• Further speakers to be announced over the coming weeks.

About ROAD to COP30

Between now and COP30, the IES will be holding four online discussion events. The four discussion events will each tackle a different theme, covering some of the most urgent priorities for COP30:

• Reimagining systems
• Operationalising finance
• Adapting to 1.5+ degrees
• Delivering solutions

These events will be free to attend and open to everyone, starting with a short panel discussion followed by an open 'roundtable' format.

Before COP30, the outcomes of these discussions will be brought together in a position piece, which will used to brief the IES delegates attending COP30.

To find out more about the work of the IES in climate change, learn about our Climate Action Community or consider joining the IES.