Scott Institute for Energy Innovation

The engineer's role in reinventing a sustainable future

September 22, 2017

12:00 p.m. - 1:20 p.m. ET

Scott Hall, Marquis Conference Room 5201

Headshot of Charlie Hargroves, in front of tree

Join the Wilton E. Scott Institute for Energy Innovation for a seminar by Charlie Hargroves, senior research fellow at the Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute and the sustainable development fellow at the University of Adelaide. Lunch will be available.

Abstract

Not since the industrial revolution or the invention of electricity has the context for the application of engineering changed so dramatically. In response to climate change the coming decade will see a significant reorientation of much of the global economy to significantly decarbonize human settlements and industry. This presents both a daunting and exciting prospect for engineers as we stand to make a substantial contribution to society, rather than simply repeat past solutions. The talk will start with an overview of leading ‘in-the-box’ examples of innovation in engineering across each of the major sectors of the economy based on the best-selling book co-authored by the presenter, ‘Factor 5: Transforming the Global Economy through 80% Increase in Resource Productivity’. The talk will then expand this level of innovation to examples ‘just-outside-the-box’ through a focus on how engineers can bring new value to existing sectors (such as shifting the construction industry to a manufacturing model or harnessing digital platforms and big data to improve mobility in growing cities, based on work with the Sustainable Built Environment National Research Centre in Australia).

Bio

Hargroves is a dedicated, passionate, and collaborative action researcher and consultant focused on making a contribution to the world’s sustainability transition. He has worked with many of the world’s leading sustainable development experts over the last 15 years and has made a strong contribution to the field through his writing, consulting, and public speaking.

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