The Forrest Research Foundation was delighted to celebrate Social Science Week 2026 with the Environmental Policy Lecture, Climate Risk and Response: A Behavioural Challenge, presented by internationally renowned behavioural scientist Professor Ben Newell.
Delivered in partnership with the UWA Centre for Environmental Economics and Policy (CEEP) and led by Forrest alumni Claire Doll and Curtis Rollins, the lecture examined the critical role of behavioural science in addressing climate change. Professor Newell explored how individuals, organisations and governments perceive and respond to climate risk, highlighting the importance of understanding human behaviour to enable more coordinated and effective action.
The event brought together researchers, students and members of the wider community for a thought-provoking discussion on one of the defining challenges of our time. Through a behavioural lens, attendees were encouraged to consider how decision-making processes influence climate outcomes and how evidence-based approaches can support meaningful institutional change.
We extend our sincere thanks to Professor Newell for joining us in Perth as our Social Science Week keynote speaker, and to everyone who attended and contributed to the conversation.
