CSaP: Democracy and climate in troubled times

Speaker: Rebecca Willis, Professor in Energy & Climate Governance, Lancaster University

The Christ’s Kennel Climate Lectures are held in collaboration with the Centre for Science and Policy and Cambridge Zero. Lectures take place in Christ’s College, Cambridge at 5:30pm and are followed by a networking drinks reception. The 2026 climate lectures will focus on democratic innovations in response to the political challenges of the climate transition.

Register: Democracy and climate in troubled times - Centre for Science and Policy

Democracy and climate in troubled times: People’s trust in democratic processes is low, and climate is now front and centre of the culture wars. Yet the need for urgent action has never been greater. What does this mean for climate governance in the UK, a country widely seen as a climate leader?

In her talk, Professor Willis will present findings from her research with citizens, and with politicians, showing that there is more common ground than many think, with support for climate action remaining robust despite perceptions. She will argue that support can only be maintained if citizens are put front and centre of climate strategies through a more confident articulation of climate challenges and policies; policy making that learns from people’s everyday lives; and a challenge to incumbent interests who may put progress at risk.