MIT Energy Initiative Fall Colloquium: Net-zero emissions and social equity

Both analysis and observation have pointed to the need for increased ambitious efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions relative to the Paris COP21 goals. In particular, industrialized countries are converging around a goal of net-zero emissions by mid-century and net-negative beyond that.

Moniz will discuss the requirements for an implementable climate action plan, with an emphasis on breakthrough innovation and the need for incorporating social equity considerations—both domestically and internationally.

About the speaker

Ernest J. Moniz served as the thirteenth United States Secretary of Energy from 2013 to January 2017. As Secretary, he advanced energy technology innovation, nuclear security and strategic stability, cutting-edge capabilities for the American scientific research community, and environmental stewardship. He placed energy science and technology innovation at the center of the global response to climate change and negotiated the Iran nuclear agreement alongside the Secretary of State.

Moniz joined the MIT faculty in 1973 and was founding director of the MIT Energy Initiative. He is the Cecil and Ida Green Professor of Physics and Engineering Systems emeritus and Special Advisor to the MIT President. Moniz is co-chairman of the board of directors and CEO of the Nuclear Threat Initiative and CEO of the Energy Futures Initiative. He has served on the boards of numerous companies, non-profits, and government agencies in the energy and security arenas.

Moniz received a BS summa cum laude in physics from Boston College, a doctorate in theoretical physics from Stanford University, and 10 honorary doctorates from American and European universities. He received the Distinguished Public Service Medal of the Department of Defense, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III (Cyprus) and of the Order of Prince Henry the Navigator (Portugal), the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun (Japan), and the inaugural Award for Excellence in Public Policy and Public Affairs of the American Academy of Arts and Science.