Opinion
Comment and analysis on today’s biggest issues from Edinburgh's world-leading experts.The views expressed in this section are those of the contributors, and do not necessarily represent those of the University.
If universities are losing hearts and minds, we must tell our…
Peter Mathieson on why Universities need to explain their impact more clearly if they are to rebuild public trust.
Have we learned lessons in fostering human and social development from…
The newly released UN 2026 Human Development Report looks at how planetary pressures intersect with health, education, livelihoods, and well-being. Do COP 30 climate frameworks meaningfully support human development outcomes?
Delivering biodiversity-positive climate action
The United Nations' International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 theme is acting locally for global impact. Land-based climate action can help tackle global warming, but must also protect biodiversity, support food systems and reflect local values.
Will lessons from COP 30 create systemic climate action change?
As we reflect on lessons learned from COP 30 and look to COP 31, we must consider whether current approaches enable systemic, coordinated climate action rather than fragmented initiatives.
Building resilience through co-production
International Mother Earth Day 2026, on April 22, marks the need for a shift to a more sustainable ecosystem - one that works for people and the planet.
Mobilising transformative climate action through innovation
This World Creativity and Innovation Day we must look at the role innovation plays in climate action and building a sustainable future.
How designing health systems with resilience can tackle the climate crisis
This World Health Day we must focus on health system resilience as a way to manage climate impacts while improving system performance and preparedness.
Storing gas underground, where does it go?
What happens to gases that we cannot see? On World Zero Waste Day, we must focus on responsibly managing gas stored underground, which is essential for a credible low-waste, low-carbon system.
Rainforests reloaded: urgency and opportunity
This International Day of Forests we focus on tropical rainforest science, the vulnerability of these forests to climate extremes, and the need for action beyond symbolic commitments.
Is humanity choosing to unite against climate change?
With three prominent COP events lined up for 2026, Professor Liz Grant reflects on the achievements of last year’s climate conference and why coming together for the sake of the environment matters.
Economic growth cannot save us from deforestation
On the UN's World Wildlife Day, we must face the reality that economic growth is driving environmental destruction, and relying on it to fund environmental protection and decarbonisation is a paradox that will ultimately result in more harm.