A keynote speech on climate change and resilience by Sir James Bevan, Environment Agency Chief Executive

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What can be done to create a nation that is better adapted and resilient to the changing climate? How does climate adaptation and resilience support a growing economy? And what can be done to ensure this generation is the first to leave the environment in a better state than we found it?

From responding to flood risk to managing industry and waste, the Environment Agency is at the heart of all these questions. In a keynote address at the IfG, Sir James Bevan discussed the bold action needed to meet current and future environmental challenges faced by the UK.

The chief executive of the Environment Agency, the UK’s environment regulator, Sir James also discussed the agency’s work in tackling flooding, drought, sea level rise and coastal, and how he believes the UK can become a nation that is resilient to climate change while encouraging green growth and a sustainable future.

After his speech, Sir James was in conversation with Dr Hannah White, Director at the Institute for Government, and take questions from the audience.

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Sir James Bevan joined the Environment Agency (EA) as Chief Executive in late November 2015. His previous roles include UK High Commissioner to India, Chief Operating Officer at the UK Foreign Office, and Visiting Fellow, Center for International Affairs, Harvard. He has also held a number of senior posts in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office including posts in Washington, Paris and Brussels