Originally planned for June, the Adelard Sustainability lecture Powering the next generation to lead climate action was postponed during a period of exceptionally high temperatures, a reminder that climate change is no longer a future challenge but one that is already affecting us today.
The event will now take place from 7.30pm to 8.30pm on 14 October 2026 at Bath Abbey.
Hosted as part of the University's 60th anniversary Adelard Series, the event will feature a live conversation exploring climate leadership across generations, creating space for established leaders and emerging voices to discuss how we progress towards a more sustainable future.
Christiana Figueres, the former UN climate chief who played a pivotal role in securing the Paris Agreement, will be joined by Professor Phil Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bath and an internationally recognised expert in renewable energy systems, alongside guests from the world’s leading climate podcast Outrage + Optimism.
Together they will explore how universities, businesses, policymakers and young people can work together to accelerate progress towards a more sustainable future and respond to the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.
Professor Phil Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bath, said:
The challenges of climate change cannot be solved by one discipline alone. At Bath, we are bringing together expertise from engineering, science, policy, business and the social sciences to better understand sustainability challenges and enable sustainable transitions. Addressing these challenges also requires us to learn from diverse perspectives across disciplines, sectors and regions of the world, including communities already experiencing the impacts of climate change most acutely.
Just as importantly, we are helping develop the next generation of researchers, innovators and leaders, nurturing the knowledge and skills needed to deliver those transitions in practice. We're delighted to welcome Christiana Figueres to Bath for what promises to be an inspiring and important conversation.
The event builds on the Outrage + Optimism team's visit to Bath in February 2026 and forms part of the University's Adelard Series. Presented in partnership with Bath Festivals, Bath Digital Festival and the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, the series is inspired by the legacy of Bath's own medieval scholar and polymath, Adelard of Bath.
Ticket information
Register now to join the live stream of this special Adelard Series event: Powering the next generation to lead climate action - Online. Online attendees will have the opportunity to hear from Christiana Figueres and fellow panellists as they explore the challenges and opportunities of creating a more sustainable future.