Overview

As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, technological advancements, and shifting societal needs, the traditional view of engineering and technology must be revisited. Engineers and technologists have long been the driving forces behind innovation, economic growth, and the development of solutions to global problems. However, as the climate crisis intensifies, resource depletion accelerates, and social inequalities persist, there is an urgent need for a shift in the skills that engineers and technologists possess. To ensure a future in which both people and the planet can thrive, a new and radical approach to engineering and technology education and practice is crucial.

At the heart of this transformation lies a broader perspective on sustainability. Engineering and technology professionals must embrace environmental, social, and economic sustainability as core principles. This requires the integration of sustainable design practices into every phase of product development, from conception to end-of-life disposal. Today’s engineers need to be equipped with the skills to design solutions that minimize environmental impact, such as reducing carbon emissions, conserving water, and using renewable resources. The focus must extend beyond efficiency and cost-effectiveness to consider the long-term health of ecosystems, the equitable distribution of resources, and the resilience of communities.

At this year’s Great Debate event, four speakers will address different aspects of key skills needed and global challenges which lie ahead, while safeguarding the future of both people and the planet:

• Shift in mindset is needed - Hiba Khan, Mott MacDonald
• Modern challenges need engineers to be more versatile - Professor Erkko Autio, Imperial College
• How to innovate within the constraints of a sustainable future - Professor Jarka Glassey, University of Newcastle
• Education of engineers to reflect 21st Century challenges - Richard Person, Fuel/Energy Industry

Time

18:15–21:00 GMT.