Name: Maja Maricevic, Head of Higher Education and Science at the British Library

Institution: The British Library

Country: United Kingdom

Biography: Maja Maricevic is Head of Higher Education and Science at the British Library. Maja is particularly interested in the big challenges of our time, such as the continuing digital transformation and climate change. Maja is an Advisory Board Member of the Arts and Humanities Research Council and an Advisory Board Member for the UK Research and Innovation programme Building a Greener Future. She is also a Board member of London’s Knowledge Quarter. She has previously worked in universities, government departments and as a professional consultant for PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Abstract: Harnessing the Power of Libraries to Convene for Climate Action In an era defined by pressing environmental urgency, we are seeing a developing role of libraries as catalysts for climate action, empowering communities and driving sustainable change. Many libraries are taking steps to reduce their own carbon footprint and embrace sustainable practices, while also increasing climate literacy and championing positive climate action amongst their different audiences and users. This talk will look at a range of roles adopted by libraries in fostering innovative solutions to climate challenges, especially the examples of work done by the British Library and the Green Libraries Partnership. Green Libraries Partnership is a UK-wide, cross-sector programme focused on the contribution of librarians, information and knowledge professionals to sustainability agenda. In the last two years the Partnership completed its first survey of UK libraries to understand what public libraries are already doing to be green and sustainable. The Partnership also launched the Green Libraries Fund and the Green Libraries Manifesto. The talk will also discuss a future transformative potential for libraries’ contribution and development in driving climate action and fostering sustainability.