CityTalks: The climate and nature crisis

We face twin crises: global heating causing extreme weather and species extinction.

Reversing these trends is not just important, it’s essential for our survival.

Australia is a global example of the climate and nature crisis, experiencing extremes of fire, flood and storms with devasting consequences.

This vital CityTalk will discuss why strong and decisive climate action is needed now more than ever – what Australia does matters!

You’ll hear inspiring global and local leaders discuss how Australia can continue to make a significant contribution to addressing the climate crisis and human rights.

We’ll discuss new frontlines for climate action and unpack the levers of change for tackling the climate crisis in the challenging years ahead.

Hear from Christiana Figueres, Founding Partner, Global Optimism, who works tirelessly on global action and advocacy. As the former Executive Secretary, UN Framework Convention for Climate Change (2010-2016), Christiana oversaw the Paris Climate Agreement.

Christiana will be in conversation with Jennifer Robinson, Human Rights Barrister, Doughty Street Chambers London. In 2024, Jennifer acted in the International Court advisory opinion proceedings on climate change and human rights, representing Vanuatu and the Marshall Islands. 

This CityTalk outlines how the City of Sydney’s environmental strategy 2025-2030 will continue our leadership in sustainable operations, community programs and advocating for change.

Hear from:

• Clover Moore AO, Lord Mayor of Sydney

• Christiana Figueres, Founding Partner of Global Optimism, and former Executive Secretary, UN Framework Convention for Climate Change (2010-2016) who oversaw the Paris Climate Agreement

• Jennifer Robinson, Human Rights Barrister, Doughty Street Chambers London.

• Matt Kean, CEO, The Climate Change Authority

• Richie Merzian, CEO, the Clean Energy Investment Group

• Professor Lesley Hughes, Professor Emerita in Biology at Macquarie University, Councillor and Director of the Climate Council of Australia, Councillor, Biodiversity Council of Australia

• Eamon Waterford, CEO, Committee for Sydney

• Clarence Slockee, Director at Jiwah and presenter on ABC Gardening Australia

Also featuring:

• Damon Gameau, Australian film director, speaker, and author

• Emma Bacon, Executive Director, Sweltering Cities and member of the Greater Sydney Heat Smart Taskforce.

• Danny de Sousa, Vice President for ESG & Innovation at Brookfield Properties and Chair of Better Buildings Partnership (BBP)

• Kim McKay AO, Director and CEO, the Australian Museum

Book your free ticket today.