Conference helps Navigate the way ahead

News Release: 30th October 2007

The 4th Annual International Conference by the Sustainable Development Research Centre, entitled 'Sustainability – creating the culture' starts tomorrow in Inverness.

The conference, organised by the Forres based centre, has attracted delegates from as far a-field as Alaska, as well as local delegates from the Highlands and Islands.

The key note address from Professor Jan Bebbington, vice-chair of the Sustainable Development Commission will examine how Scotland navigates towards sustainability. Jan will discuss the implications of the findings from the Commission’s latest report on the ‘state of the nation’. This report assessed progress towards a sustainable Scotland, using indicators set out in Choosing Our Future – Scotland’s sustainable development strategy.

Professor Jan Bebbington said:

"Our report highlighted that although there has been some progress, there is still a long way to go before Scotland becomes a sustainable nation.

"For Scotland to become sustainable we must address economic, social and environmental issues simultaneously – achieving sustainable development will be a challenge but it is a huge opportunity for Scotland and the Highlands & Islands.

"I am delighted to be the key note speaker at this conference which brings together key players working to make Scotland more sustainable. My speech will raise the key challenges for Scotland in creating a route map towards sustainability and discuss how navigate our way forward."

Professor Stephen Tinsley, Chief Executive of the Sustainable Development Research Centre said:

"There will be almost 100 delegates attending the conference, which no doubt reflects the high calibre of the speakers and the importance of sustainable development.

"Professor Jan Bebbington, an expert in sustainable development, brings a wealth of knowledge from the Commission’s recent assessment of progress in Scotland. It is crucial that we use this learning if Scotland is to become a sustainable nation."

Ends

Notes to Editors:

• The Sustainable Development Commission Scotland is the Scottish Government’s independent advisor, reporting directly the First Minister on key policy areas to ensure sustainable development is at the heart of their work

• Link to the Commission’s Assessment of Progress by the Scottish Government

• Read Jan's thoughts from her key note address at the 2007 SDRC conference