Dr. Kian Mintz-Woo, a lecturer at University College Cork's Department of Philosophy and an affiliate of its Environmental Research Institute, emphasizes the importance of engaging in conversations about climate change. With a research background encompassing degrees from institutions like the University of British Columbia, Oxford, Reading, Amsterdam, and a PhD from the University of Graz, Dr. Mintz-Woo focuses on climate policy's moral and social dimensions.
His work addresses the ethical implications of climate change, highlighting the disparity between those causing and those suffering its effects. He explores policy measures like carbon taxes and revenue-sharing mechanisms to encourage sustainable practices and examines the justice considerations related to climate change. In his role with the Irish Government’s Carbon Budgets Working Group, he ensures that ethical principles guide national carbon budgeting.
Furthermore, Dr. Mintz-Woo underscores philosophers' roles in integrating various academic disciplines to influence policy effectively. He has participated in UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change meetings, advocating for greener and more just societal decisions. He also directs UCC’s master’s program in health and society, combining multiple disciplines to prepare students for roles in health policy and ethics.
Dr. Mintz-Woo believes public engagement and curiosity about climate change are crucial. He notes that systematic and transparent carbon pricing mechanisms can be effective in reducing emissions, drawing parallels with successful policies in British Columbia and Sweden. He encourages dialogue about climate ethics, reflecting a broad curiosity among students about applied ethics and sustainable decisions.