ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳

Events

Is it possible to achieve fair and inclusive prosperity without a green agenda?

Hosted by the Cañada Blanch Centre for Contemporary Spanish Studies and Department of Geography and Environment

In-person and online public event (Sheikh Zayed Theatre, Cheng Kin Ku Building)

Speaker

Teresa Ribera

Teresa Ribera

Chair

Professor Andrés Rodríguez-Pose

Professor Andrés Rodríguez-Pose

Economic research increasingly suggests that green investments drive job creation, enhance resilience, and reduce long-term costs associated with environmental degradation. Studies from leading institutions highlight that nations prioritizing sustainability tend to foster innovation and remain competitive in an evolving global market. Conversely, neglecting environmental concerns risks deepening social disparities and exposing economies to the destabilizing effects of climate change. However, some argue that strict environmental policies may impose burdens on certain industries and workers, raising important questions about how to ensure an equitable transition.

Throughout this dialogue, Ribera will reflect on these findings and explore how the European Union’s Green Deal aims to balance social equity with ambitious climate goals. Bringing together policymaking experience and economic evidence, this discussion will challenge assumptions about growth, fairness, and sustainability. It offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the future of economic policy and whether a truly inclusive prosperity might flourish within—or perhaps cannot exist without—a robust commitment to sustainability.

Meet our speaker and chair

Teresa Ribera () is the European Commission Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition. Her task is to ensure that Europe stays on track for its goals