San Francisco, CA
Environmental advocates urge individuals to start reducing their carbon footprint by taking one simple action such as changing light bulbs or going meatless one day a week. If everyone did that the carbon savings would be substantial, the thinking goes. Are such starter steps the beginning of a lifelong journey or actually deceptive and even counterproductive?
Wagner argues that individual action is trivial and policy is what ultimately matters. Others contend technology (including nuclear power and genetically engineered crops) are vital to crafting a secure future. If the answer is individual and collective action – “all of the above” – what area should receive the most public attention and resources? Proponents argue that it is not a question of OR but of emphasis and priority. A conversation about markets, individuals, technology and how to bend the carbon curves in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.
Gernot Wagner, PhD, Author, But Will the Planet Notice?; Economist, Environmental Defense Fund
Christopher Jones, Co-Chair, Behavior, Energy & Climate Change Conference; Researcher, CoolClimate Network
Glen Low, principal, Blue Skye
Topic: Individual Matter
Date: Tuesday, February 12
Time: 5:30pm check in; 6:00pm program
Location: The Commonwealth Club, SF Club Office, 595 Market Street, San Francisco
Cost: $20 standard, $12 members, $7 students (with valid ID)