Earlier this year month author, carbon footprint researcher and Bangor alumni Mike Bernes-Lee gave a public lecture at ᰮԹ about his upcoming book “”. Julia P G Jones, Professor in Conservation Science, was intrigued and didn’t want to wait until the book was published so wrote to Nature books editor to pitch doing a review.
“I was struck by Mike Bernes-Lee’s argument: that an increase in truthfulness is even more important than technological advances for tackling the climate crisis and related environmental challenges. I really wanted to read the book and delve his argument in more depth. It was certainly a compelling read.”
will be published 27 March. It discusses the polycrisis faced by society: climate, food security, biodiversity, pollution, and inequality, and explores the changes needed in society, and ultimately in the core value of honesty, for us to successfully navigate these difficult times.
“There is a poignancy reading the book in early 2025, against the backdrop of a dramatic assault on truth in public life that is rapidly turning into a full-frontal attack on science. Some of the graphs in the book come from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which is currently facing an uncertain future despite its crucial role in predicting hurricanes as well as tracking climate change. It is no exaggeration to say that the politicisation of science is a matter of life and death”.
Reflecting on the event, which was co-hosted by the Menai branch of the United Nations Association, Professor Oliver Turnbull, Deputy Vice-Chancellor said:
“It was wonderful to host Professor Bernes-Lee, to talk about his new book. Our Main Arts Lecture theatre was full to bursting with staff and students, as well as a diverse and enthusiastic crowd from the Bangor area. I was delighted to discover that Mike is actually one of our alumni: he studied here 40 years ago, before going onto his illustrious career as an academic and author.”
Professor Jones’ review is available to and the book can be found
