The urgent drive to decarbonise energy systems has accelerated the development of alternative technologies designed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. From hydrogen and algae-based biofuels to cutting-edge materials for energy storage, a new generation of energy solutions is rapidly emerging—offering the promise of cleaner, more sustainable ways to power society.

Yet the transition to these technologies raises pressing questions about their real-world viability. Can they be scaled up quickly enough to meet global climate targets? Are they economically viable and socially just? And what are the wider environmental impacts of their adoption, from raw material extraction to full lifecycle emissions?

In Michaelmas Term 2025, The Suman Conversations in Environmental Sustainability will bring together leading voices from academia and industry to examine these questions. This panel discussion will critically explore the sustainability and scalability of emerging energy technologies, offering diverse perspectives on their role in future energy systems. Framed within the broader challenges of climate change and global energy demand, the event provides a timely opportunity for interdisciplinary dialogue on what it truly means for an energy solution to be sustainable.

This is a free public event open to all on a first-come-first-served basis.

Please join us for this sixth seminar.

The seminars are kindly supported by Manisha Tank (1994 PPE) and Sanjeev Kumar.

Programme & Speakers
17:00-18:45: Presentations and Panel Discussion

Madiha Hasan, Non-Executive Director at HutanBio, HYCAP, Hygen Energy, & Ryze Hydrogen; Senior Advisor at Circular Energy; Board Advisor at Hillcore Industrial

Dr John C. Waite, CEO at Phycobloom & Breakthrough Energy Fellow

Professor Wei Huang, Professor of Biological Engineering, Oxford University; Fellow of St Edmund Hall

Dr Tina Fawcett, Associate Professor at the Environmental Change Institute, Oxford University

1 8:45-19:15: Drinks Reception