University of York to co-host climate emergency debate ahead of COP26

Posted on 14 September 2021

The Archbishop of York is to take part in an emergency climate debate co-hosted by the University of York.

A protester holds a placard at a climate emergency protest

The event will bring together local leaders and young people to discuss Yorkshire's response to the climate emergency. Photo credit: Markus Spiske/Unsplash

‘Rise to the Moment - Yorkshire’ will discuss the City’s response to the upcoming COP26 summit.

Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, will be on the panel along with key local leaders from the church, science and politics.

The event will be held on Thursday 23 September at 1.30pm, at the University of York and online. It will be co-presented by the York Environmental Sustainability Institute in partnership with Christian Aid and the Young Christian Climate Network.

Urgent action

The debate will focus on the moral, scientific and ethical case for urgent action on climate change at COP26, and will also be an opportunity to hear the thoughts, frustrations, and desires of young people regarding the climate emergency.

Hosted by Professor Kiran Trehan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Partnerships and Engagement at the University of York, panelists include:

Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York,
Rev Cllr Chris Cullwick, Lord Mayor of York,
Rachael Maskell, MP for York Central
Jen Morris, Young Christian Climate Network
Pete Moorey, Head of Campaigns and UK Advocacy, Christian Aid,
Representatives from across Yorkshire, including the Youth Christian Climate Network and the University of York

Professor Kiran Trehan said: “This discussion is a vital and timely one, and will bring together key local partners across academia, the church, local government, campaigning and, crucially, young people to discuss how the City can respond and make a real difference in combatting the threat of climate change.”

Those interested in the event can register to attend in-person, or virtually.