A Leeds University Professor is challenging the need for economic growth.

In the UK general election the main political parties all agreed that growth is essential but Daniel O’Neill argues that it is fundamentally unsustainable. He will explain this in a public online webinar entitled ‘Achieving a sustainable economy beyond growth - what's needed and where are we now?’ It is at 7.30pm on Thursday, November 21, is open to all and the link to register for a place is on the website of Climate Action Ilkley.

Prof O’Neill worked for many years as an economist at Leeds University. He moved to the University of Barcelona last year but remains a Visiting Professor in Leeds. He is President of the European Society for Ecological Economics, and coordinator of a major European research project called MAPS (short for “Models, Assessment, and Policies for Sustainability”). His research focuses on the relationships between resource use and human well-being, and the changes that would be needed to achieve a sustainable economy within planetary boundaries.

Steve Peel of Climate Action Ilkley said: "Climate change and the decline of biodiversity are driven by the relentless pursuit of economic growth. Alternatives to this model have been proposed for many years including a steady-state economy or even degrowth. We are delighted that Dan has agreed to speak about this vital issue, to propose alternatives and answer questions from the audience."