Talks / Ideas / Philosophy

The Carbon Story Hiding in Your Local Pub: How Construction Can Heal Our Planet

Various venues across London

Mon 12 Oct · 19:00 · £20.25

90m · Talk

About this event

"The Carbon Story Hiding in Your Local: How Construction Can Heal Our Planet" with Will Arnold Summary: Look around Camden Brewery – what do you see? The famous brick arches. New steel columns. The concrete floor. A magnificent glass and aluminium entrance wall. Each of these materials has an extraordinary story of scientific breakthroughs, industrial revolutions, and human ingenuity. But they also have a hidden environmental story that most people never hear. Most of us think the carbon footprint of a building comes from heating, lighting (or, of course, the brewing of beer). But the bigger story is hiding in plain sight. Construction materials are responsible for around four times the carbon emissions of aviation, consume three times as much stuff as the fossil fuel industry, and generate half of all waste. It’s an industry without comparison, and it needs to change. Engineer, environmentalist and author Will Arnold uncovers the surprising stories behind the five materials that built modern civilisation, revealing why we should care far more about where they come from – but more importantly, where they're going and why that makes him an optimist. Because this isn’t a story of doom and gloom, it’s a story about the extraordinary solutions already emerging around the world. Will promises to take us on a world tour of hope: from bamboo schools in Indonesia that seem to float above the jungle, to London laboratories making concrete from carbon dioxide, Danish apartment blocks wrapped in beautiful façades made entirely from waste, and a Rwandan university built from the earth on which it sits. Together, these innovations show how, in the not-too-distant future, every new building could become an opportunity to heal the world a little more Bio : Will Arnold is an award-winning engineer, environmentalist and author who worries about the hidden stories behind the things we build with, and wondering how we can do better. His work ranges from helping people buy lower-carbon concrete, to exploring how we can build beautiful new places using the waste left behind by others. He also spends much of his time helping people outside the industry understand what needs to change, and what they can do to make it happen. He has appeared on BBC Radio 4, is regularly sought out by MPs and Peers looking to understand what action is needed (he occasionally helps write the speeches they give on the subject), and has advised governments, institutions and designers around the world. He is a Visiting Professor at the University of Bath and the author of the forthcoming book Future Build: How Construction Can Heal Our Planet . Based locally in Gospel Oak, Will’s special guest for the evening will be his ridiculously cute dog Maggie, one of the main characters in Future Build , and long-time supporter of his work. Maggie has contributed no research, written no policy proposals and reduced no carbon emissions, but remains by far the most popular member of the duo. Venue: Camden Town Brewery Beer Hall, NW5 3ED Event Running Time: (We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only) Doors from 7pm Introduction: 7:25pm Lecture: 7:30pm Q&A: 8:10pm Finish: 8:30pm FAQs: What is Pints of Knowledge? Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond. What happens at Pints of Knowledge? At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting. What if I don't drink alcohol ? No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Can I attend without a ticket? Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. Is there food available? Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. Can I get my ticket refunded? We issue full ticket refunds up to 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser. Can I get my ticket exchanged? We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser . Is the event pet/baby friendly? Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive. Is the venue accessible? All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.