Professor Liz Bentley: Climate Authority from the UK
Professor Liz Bentley, the esteemed leader of the Royal Meteorological Society in the UK, stands as a distinguished authority in weather and climate sciences. With a rich reservoir of expertise, she arrives at global climate gatherings like COP with not just knowledge but also a potent visual representation—a remarkable scarf that speaks volumes about historical temperature trends.
The Symbolism of the Scarf
Hailing from the UK, Liz brings forth a scarf adorned with vertical lines, an embodiment of climate history. Each stripe corresponds to a year from 1850 onward, with blue representing cooler years and red signifying warmer ones. This distinctive accessory offers a visual conversation piece, vividly highlighting the dramatic shifts in global temperatures over time. Its design provides a straightforward illustration of climate change, bypassing complex data and offering a clear, accessible depiction of rising temperatures.
In 2017, Ellie Highwood crocheted a “global warming blanket” as a baby gift for climate-scientist parents. Each of its 100 rows represented a year’s global temperature from 1916 to 2016, unknowingly creating a symbol of climate change awareness that would resonate far beyond its intended purpose. The concept was adopted by Professor Ed Hawkins, an IPCC climate scientist at the University of Reading, with each stripe marking a year, transitioning from cool blues to warm reds to reflect over 150 years of temperature change.
Sustainability in Attire
Beyond this emblematic scarf, Liz’s commitment to sustainability extends to her choice of attire. In the warm climate of COP sessions, she dons an organic cotton dress, mindful of the textile’s environmental impact. Her decision reflects a conscious effort to support eco-friendly fashion by opting for organic cotton, which reduces the ecological footprint compared to conventional cotton production. Embodying her values, the dress not only keeps her comfortable but also resonates with her love for vibrant blue tones, complementing her style.
Liz’s Presence and Advocacy
Professor Liz Bentley’s presence at COP transcends mere expertise; it’s a deliberate testament to the urgency of climate action. Her scarf serves as a poignant visual aid, unraveling the narrative of climate change, while her eco-conscious attire exemplifies a dedication to sustainable practices—a compelling fusion of scientific advocacy and personal ethos for a more environmentally conscious future.
Photo (c) Pamela EA
