Swindon Science Cafe

16/09/24

Have you ever wondered how your everyday choices help combat climate change? Or why soil health is vital for the future of our planet? Perhaps you’re interested in the rush for cobalt – an essential element in batteries for electric vehicles and consumer electronics – and its cost to both the environment and human lives. If these questions spark your curiosity, then the Swindon Science Café is the perfect place for you!

Held on the first Tuesday of every month at the iCAST Creative Hub, this informal series brings science to life with fascinating talks and lively discussions in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. There are no long lectures – just an engaging, two-way conversation between researchers and an audience of curious minds.

The Festival of Tomorrow - Swindon Science Cafe

Join us for a lively informal evening of discovery and discussion with environmental psychologist Professor Lorraine Whitmarsh, MBE.

Professor Lorraine Whitmarsh, MBE, is an environmental psychologist, specialising in perceptions and behaviour in relation to climate change, energy and transport, based in the Department of Psychology, University of Bath. She is Director of the ESRC-funded UK Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations (CAST).

She regularly advises governmental and other organisations on low-carbon behaviour change and climate change communication, was one of the expert leads for Climate Assembly UK, and Lead Author for IPCC’s Working Group II Sixth Assessment Report. Her research projects have included studies of meat consumption, energy efficiency behaviours, waste reduction and carrier bag reuse, perceptions of smart technologies and electric vehicles, low-carbon lifestyles, and responses to climate change.

Together, we'll be exploring views and ideas about climate change, what people can do to tackle climate change, and how to change behaviour.

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Here’s a taste of the exciting talks planned for the next four months:

1st October 2024: Cobalt Rush (Short Film Screening) with Professor Roy Maconachie, University of Bath
More about Prof. Maconachie
5th November 2024: COP28: How Can People Engage with Climate Change? with Professor Lorraine Whitmarsh MBE, University of Bath
More about Prof. Whitmarsh
3rd December 2024: Soil Health with Dr David O’Connor, Royal Agricultural University
More about Dr. O’Connor
7th January 2025: Making Plastic from Christmas Trees with Professor Matthew Davidson, University of Bath / iCAST
More about Prof. Davidson

Everyone is welcome

Come and express your views or just enjoy a drink and listen. No scientific knowledge is needed to take part - just bring your curiosity, and maybe your own bottle of choice.

A selection of light refreshments will be available in return for a donation on the night, or you are welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks with you.

WHEN: The first Tuesday of each month, from 7pm - 9pm.

The screening will start around 7.15pm, followed by questions and discussion.

WHERE: Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies (iCAST) Creative Hub located in the iconic Carriage Works. 10 Carriage Works, Unit 7B, London Street, Swindon, SN1 5FB

Enter the following three words into the What Three Words app to find the exact location:

Front entrance: ///friday.index.solo

Rear entrance: ///cups.shell.face