Planning rural futures after Copenhagen - Mr Richard Wakeford, Scottish Government’s Director General, Rural Futures

To mark the 60 years of People Republic of China, the University is hosting a series of lectures/seminars over the next 12 months to discuss China related research across all schools. Staff and students are invited to attend this first lecture, sponsored by the School of the Built Environment and to offer talks for future sessions.

Mr Richard Wakeford will present the first in this innovative series of lectures and seminars on Monday 7th December at the state of the art University Postgraduate Centre.

Rural areas are set to become even more important in the 21st century world. The global challenges world leaders are addressing should be seen as rural opportunities. The rural world is the principal source of the food and clean water for an increasing world population needs. Action on climate change demands more renewable energy and carbon sequestration, services which rural areas can supply. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels will also create challenges for rural residents and businesses. When the world’s leaders decide their approach to the threat of global warming, in Copenhagen and beyond, rural regions will be crucial in the action needed. Drawing on illustrations from China, India and developed nations, the lecture will highlight the importance of integrated strategies for rural development – both at the regional level and internationally.

There will be refreshments available from 4.00pm and the lecture will start promptly at 4.30pm. The lecture will be followed by a Q&A session for the audience to participate in.

Please RSVP for this event by emailing [email protected] by Wednesday 2nd December.