Chichester talk to challenge sustainability assumptions

Dr Tommy Lynch, who teaches political theology and philosophy at the University of Chichester, will deliver a thought-provoking lecture at the Oxfam bookshop on East Street in Chichester.

The talk, titled 'Is sustainability sustainable?', will take place on Wednesday, February 4.

Dr Lynch said: "Sustainability does not mean what most people think it means.

"Most people would think it is something to do with the environment - and it is - but it is not just that.

"This means companies in oil and gas for example, can tell us they are working towards sustainability under the UN Sustainable Development Goals, but change very little when it comes to the environment."

He explained that under the UN’s 17 sustainable development goals, companies can make progress in areas like gender equality or education while making minimal changes to their environmental impact, yet still present themselves as sustainable.

Dr Lynch’s research examines philosophical interpretations of the end of the world, with a focus on climate change as a pressing global concern.

He said: "My main research project is on the end of the world, and I think a lot about climate change as a part of that.

"But it is a huge problem and quite scary, and you can’t address a problem that you can’t confront."

The talk will run from 5.30pm to 6pm.

Tickets are priced at £5 and can be purchased in-store at the Oxfam bookshop.