From local to global: how the climate stripes spread a message around the world
Join us in conversation with Professor Ed Hawkins MBE, climate scientist and IPCC author, and creator of the famous climate warming stripes. Hosted by Tom Clarke, Sky News.
No words. No numbers. No graphs. Just a series of vertical coloured bars, showing the progressive heating of our planet in a single, striking image.
Since the climate stripes were created by Professor Ed Hawkins at the University of Reading in 2018, they have been widely commended as a powerful representation of the changing climate and an emblem for people and communities to share their concern all around the world.
In this exclusive event to mark ‘Show Your Stripes Day’, we will hear the full story of how the stripes evolved from a modest science graphic to a global phenomenon, embraced by millions and inspiring climate conversations everywhere. Professor Hawkins will share how the stripes have reached well beyond academic circles, featuring in places ranging from intergovernmental negotiations, media, sports, arts and fashion.
We will also hear about exciting new opportunities for the stripes and why their message is more important than ever.
Can't make it in person? You can also book to watch online instead.
This event is part of Reading Climate Festival 2024 (8 - 21 June 2024), two weeks of events and activities to inspire climate action and collaborations in Reading, beginning with Water Fest and ending with Show Your Stripes Day. 2024 is Reading’s Year of Climate Engagement. Find out more about how to get involved in shaping our town’s climate action priorities for 2025 – 2030 .