Climate change and ethical leadership: closing our guest talk series
Dr Rhyddhi Chakraborty, Senior Lecturer in Public Health and Leadership, shares her impressions of a guest lecture by Dr Darryl Macer, Director of the Eubios Ethics Institute.
On 5 November 2025, we hosted the third and final session of our guest talk series on climate change and health and healthcare. This concluding event brought together students and colleagues for an inspiring discussion on how ethical leadership can shape responses to one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Our distinguished speaker, Dr Darryl Macer, who holds a doctorate in Biochemistry from Cambridge University and is a globally recognised scholar in Bioethics, led the conversation. With over 28 years of teaching experience and an extensive body of work spanning ethics, science, and education, Dr Macer offered profound insights into the intersection of bioethics, sustainability, and leadership.
A broad remit
The session explored:
- Ethical frameworks for climate action – balancing bioethical principles of justice, autonomy, and responsibility.
- Cultural perspectives and indigenous wisdom – learning from diverse traditions to foster planetary health.
- Leadership beyond Net Zero – moving toward regenerative practices that contribute positively to ecosystems.
- Practical steps for researchers and institutions – embedding sustainability and ethics in everyday decisions.
Dr Macer reminded us of the deeper responsibility we share as global citizens, stating:
"Bioethics is a bridge – between cultures, disciplines, and generations. If we want to lead on climate change, we must go beyond net zero and embrace a vision where our actions regenerate life rather than merely reduce harm."
Looking outwards
A key highlight was the value of indigenous wisdom in shaping climate solutions. Dr Macer emphasised that traditional knowledge systems – such as tsunami warning stones in Japan or community-based conservation practices in South Asia – offer lessons in resilience and sustainability that modern societies often overlook:
"Indigenous knowledge is not just history; it is living wisdom. It teaches us humility, coexistence, and long-term thinking – qualities essential for ethical leadership in addressing climate change."
Lively exchanges
Participants engaged in vibrant discussions on topics ranging from consent and equity in global health research to the role of governance and political will in climate policy. The dialogue underscored a key message: ethical leadership is not optional – it is essential for meaningful climate action.
This talk marked the culmination of a series designed to empower our community with knowledge and strategies to address climate change responsibly. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all guest speakers and attendees for making this series a success.
Stay tuned for more initiatives as we continue our commitment to planetary health, sustainability, and ethical practice.
Dr Rhyddhi Chakraborty, Senior Lecturer in Public Health and Leadership, School of Allied Health and Social Care