If anyone is thinking of going to the Hay Festival this year, the following events look really good for anyone interested in the future of the planet. You can book tickets via this web page:
http://www.hayfestival.com/wales/booking-info.aspx?skinid=2¤cysetting=GBP&localesetting=en-GB&resetfilters=true
I have copied the following information from the current nef newsletter.
The Hay Festival in Wales has always been more than just another literature festival. It has provided a space for re-imagining our world, renewing our sense of wonder and reminding us that, if we choose to, we really can change our lives for the better. In 2009, when hope seems in short supply, nef (the new economics foundation) will be hosting a series of events at the Festival: Surviving the Crash, supported by the Ecology Building Society. We'll be exploring how, if we play it right, the opportunities created by financial and environmental crisis might just help us win back our lives and our planet.
Transition Now - 26 May, 1pm - The Sony Screen - £5
Frontline news from the UK's fastest growing social experiment - the Transition Town Movement. With movement founder Rob Hopkins and broadcaster and chair of London Food Rosie Boycott. Chaired by Andrew Simms.
City of Darkness - 27 May, 6.45pm - The Dream Stage - £5
Do a handful of financial institutions control the fate of our planet's climate? With economist John Kay, HSBC climate advisor Nick Robins and art activist James Marriott. Chaired by Andrew Simms.
The Cuban Surprise - 28 May, 5.30pm - The Guardian Stage - £5. How lessons from a small isolated island could save the lives of millions in a warming world.
With author Dr Julia Wright and Cuban Economic Counsellor, Carlos Alfaro. Chaired by Andrew Simms.
A Green New Deal - 30 May, 4pm - The Dream Stage - £5
Can the environment save the economy? With Green Party leader Caroline Lucas MEP, Welsh Environment Minister Jane Davidson and Spanish MEP Joan Herrera. Chaired by Andrew Simms.
An Environmental War Economy - 30 May, 11.30am - The Lorax - £5
What can Britain's experience of World War II teach us about conservation and thriving during times of adversity? With garden guru Monty Don, author Andrew Simms, documentary maker Revel Guest and broadcaster Jenny Murray. Chaired by Stewart Wallis.