Positive Tipping Points to Avoid Climate Tipping Points

The UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability invites you to the inaugural

Richard P. and Linda S. Turco Lecture

presented by

Tim Lenton

Founding Director, Global Systems Institute
Chair in Climate Change and Earth System Science
University of Exeter

About the Speaker

Tim Lenton is founding director of the Global Systems Institute and chair in climate change and Earth system science at the University of Exeter. He has more than 25 years of research experience focused on modeling the biosphere, climate, biogeochemical cycles, and associated tipping points. He is widely recognized for his work identifying climate tipping points, which helped inform the 1.5°C climate target, related net-zero targets, and nationally determined contributions.

Lenton works with policymakers and businesses to assess the risks of climate change and nature loss while highlighting the opportunities for “positive tipping points” that can accelerate progress toward net zero. In 2023, he led a team of more than 200 contributors from over 90 organizations in 26 countries to produce a major assessment of the risks and opportunities associated with both negative and positive tipping points in the Earth system and society. The Global Tipping Points Report, produced in partnership with the Bezos Earth Fund, was published at COP28.

About the Richard P. and Linda S. Turco Lecture

The Richard P. and Linda S. Turco Lecture series was established through the generous support of Richard P. and Linda S. Turco in honor of their enduring commitment to environmental education and the future of our planet. Made possible by the Richard P. and Linda S. Turco IoES Endowment, the series reflects the donors’ deep belief in the power of knowledge to drive meaningful change.