Science has historically played a key role in the curation of knowledge and understandings about the world, particularly in conversations around the environment. 

Increasingly, climate change and environmental challenges have brought the perspectives of younger generations to the fore, as well as the consideration of how future generations will be affected by decisions. These perspectives offer a unique lens on environmental challenges, where many of the effects of decisions now will continue to be relevant long into the future.

To support the link between environmental science and these crucial perspectives, the IES is hosting a panel discussion to highlight the importance of young voices and the perspective of future generations as we consider our approach to the environment.

This panel discussion is part of the IES's 2024 policy work on the theme of 'knowledge', addressing practical and theoretical questions about what evidence-informed policy means in practice. The goal of this discussion is to explore young voices and a 'future generations' perspective as historically under-represented forms of knowledge in environmental decision making.

Agenda

• Introduction (12.30-12.35)
• Presentations from speakers (12.35-13.10):
  • Andy Oroke, Newcastle University
  • Sandy Clubb, Office of the Future Generations Commissioner
  • George Carew-Jones, UK Youth Climate Coalition
  • Josh Beynon
• Q&A and panel discussion (13.10-13.25)
• Conclusion (13.25-13.30)

Speakers

Andy Oroke

Andy Oroke is an award-winning Environmental Specialist and PhD Researcher in Environmental Engineering, Newcastle University. Through his interdisciplinary PhD research project advancing technology for removal of arsenic (king of poison) in groundwater, he is contributing to address water quality issues which is critical to achieve water security, sustainable environment, and public health.

He is a member of the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) UK, where he also serves in the External Policy Advisory Committee, contributing to offer expert advice on IES environmental policy mandates. Andy is passionate about science as evidence-based tool for effective decision and policy making.

Sandy Clubb

Sandy leads on engagement at the Well-being of Future Generations Commissioner's team, bringing the ‘together’ in the team's vision to life. She is the main point of contact for the voluntary and community sector.  

As an engagement practitioner and advisor, she has over fifteen years’ experience with organisations ranging from The National Trust, Sustrans Cymru, Valleys to Coast Housing and Cardiff Council. The common thread in all her work has been listening to and involving others to enable collaboration and co-production. 

Sandy’s love of getting to know communities, landscapes and the things that connect them has helped her learn Welsh to fluency and taken her to wild and interesting places all over Cymru.

George Carew-Jones

George Carew-Jones is a Research Associate at Oxford University's Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment (SSEE). He works on the FCDO-funded Climate Compatible Growth Programme, focusing on climate finance and environmental decision making in developing economies.

George holds an MSc in Nature, Society and Environmental Governance (NSEG) from the University of Oxford, and has a background in youth-led climate activism, being a Director for the UK Youth Climate Coalition. This voluntary work involves attending UNFCCC-organised conferences to lobby for progressive climate policy.

Joshua Beynon

Joshua Beynon has a background in local government, healthcare, and communications.

Based in Pembrokeshire, Wales, he has led strategic initiatives across sectors, focusing on sustainability, governance, and health outcomes. Joshua has managed complex projects, including developing Pembrokeshire’s first Net Zero Action Plan and overseeing a greener primary care action plan.

He has a passion for languages, music, and triathlons, which mirrors his commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.