Aberdeen's role in energy transition will be the topic of TEDxSalon event
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TEDxAberdeen is hosting a TEDxSalon event exploring Aberdeen's role in the energy transition.
Partnering with the University of Aberdeen, the Salon will bring industry, academia and the local community together to hear a range of expert presentations on major themes from the latest technologies and policies to skills, environmental impact and inclusivity.
Speakers will include Dr Daria Shapovalova, director of the Aberdeen University Centre for Energy Law and co-coordinator of the Just Transition Lab who will share the latest research on the impact of energy transition on communities in energy cities.
She will be joined by Pete Smith, Professor of Soils and Global Change at the Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, and science director of the Scottish Climate Change Centre of Expertise, who will discuss the impact of renewable energy sources on the environment and how they can best be managed.
Lauren Braidwood, National Energy Skills Accelerator project manager at Energy Transition Zone (ETZ) Ltd, will also give a talk on the work being undertaken to create an adaptable skills system with accessible training that will support Scotland’s Net Zero targets and deliver a sustainable future for the region and its people.
“The energy transition is a complex and challenging process, but it is also an opportunity for the Aberdeen city region to create new jobs, grow its economy and become a leader in the global clean energy industry,” said Dr Shapovalova, who is co-hosting the event.
The presentations will be followed by a panel session. This will include commentary from Professor Georgios Leontidis, interdisciplinary director of data and artificial intelligence and personal chair or machine learning at the University who was among the speakers at the inaugural TEDx Aberdeen that took place in 2021, and Dr Eddy Wifa, an energy law lecturer at the School of Law.
The energy transition is a complex and challenging process, but it is also an opportunity for the Aberdeen city region to create new jobs, grow its economy and become a leader in the global clean energy industry."
Dr Shapovalova added: “Traditionally the dialogue around Net Zero and the role of the just transition has been heavily dominated by the energy industry with limited public space and debate for the alternatives. As well as providing a range of speakers focused on the key themes, we hope to provide a space for new ideas and discussions.”
During the panel session audience members will also have the opportunity to ask questions and share their own thoughts on Aberdeen's energy transition.
Moray Barber, co-host of the event and TEDxAberdeen licensee, said: “TED Salon events are smaller, more intimate TED events, hosted by the local TEDx team. A critical element of the salon is lively discussions, allowing attendees to actively participate in the event. With much smaller audiences than a standard TEDx event, salons bring attendees together in more intimate spaces and with more chances to get know and exchange ideas as with each other
“The energy transition is a complex and challenging process but also a huge opportunity for the region. People from all walks of life who have an interest in shaping the north-east’s future are welcome to attend and be part of the conversation.”
The event will take place at the Science Teaching Hub on the Old Aberdeen campus on Friday 10 November from 2pm to 5pm. Tickets are £10, or £7 for students.
