Issues

We currently focus on four main issues: disarmament and security, climate change and energy, questions of who controls science and technology and issues surrounding new and emerging technologies. You will also see that we work on some other issues too. You can explore these with the menu on the left of this page and with the search function. Material in this section includes all SGR's main outputs since 2005, with a selection of the more important material from before then.

Nuclear adventures in Finland and elsewhere

Claus Montonen, University of Helsinki/ Technology for Life Finland, reveals disturbing evidence of shortcuts, overspending and commercial infighting during the construction of Olkiluoto 3 – the first of a planned new generation of nuclear power stations in Europe.

Stuart Parkinson, SGR, looks at whether the much heralded 'nuclear renaissance' is happening elsewhere.

Articles from SGR Newsletter No. 39, winter 2011 (published online: 26 January 2011)
 

Fit for purpose? Renewable energy funding in the UK

David Elliott, Open University, critically assesses the financial mechanisms offered by the UK government to stimulate growth in renewable energy technologies.

Article from SGR Newsletter No. 39, winter 2011 (published online: 26 January 2011)

With Addendum (published online: 2 February 2011)
 

A few words from the Director (Jan 11)

Stuart Parkinson, SGR, examines the government’s spending cuts.

Article from SGR Newsletter No. 39, winter 2011 (published online: 26 January 2011)
 

Energy and climate change – time for hope or concern?

Some recent developments in the energy and climate change fields, both in the UK and internationally, have given rise to optimism while others are major cause for concern. Martin Quick investigates.

Article for SGR Newsletter No. 39, winter 2011 (published online: 26 January 2011)
 

Armed drones: how remote-controlled, high-tech weapons are used against the poor

David Hookes, SGR, explores the ethical and legal implications of the growing use of armed, unmanned planes in the 'war against terrorism'.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 39, winter 2011

 

Announcing Scientists for Global Responsibility Newsletter 39

Press Release, 26 January 2011
 

Ivory Tower - BBC Radio 4 documentary

This documentary debates the serious concerns about growing commercial involvement in UK universities. It features SGR's Chris Langley, Science Minister, David Willetts and several academics. It was first broadcast on 15 December 2010.
 

Arms conversion for a sustainable society (Nov 2010)

Presentation by Stuart Parkinson, SGR, at the AGM of Sheffield Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, 17 November 2010.

A similar presentation was given at Lancaster University on 2 December 2010.
 

Science and technology: making a difference

Science and technology have contributed to huge changes over the last century and longer. But are the costs of these changes now outweighing the benefits? And if so, what should be done?

Presentation by Stuart Parkinson, SGR, at 'What is science for?' seminar, Manchester Metropolitan University, 16 October 2010
 

Engineers and social responsibility: the big issues

Article by Stuart Parkinson, SGR, in UNESCO report, Engineering: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities for Development, published 14 October 2010.