John teaches Green Political Economy and co-directs the Centre for Sustainability, Equality and Climate Action at Queens Belfast University. He is also the Co-Chair of the Belfast Climate Commission, which translates climate policy into on-the-ground action to achieve the UK Government’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. 

In this episode, John introduces the concept of political economy, arguing that economics cannot be separated from politics and power. He dives into the impacts of capitalism on the ecological and climate crises, and advocates for bringing ethics and politics into economic discussion.

Barry critiques the academic sector's response to the climate crisis, arguing for a more integrated and mandatory approach to educating students on these issues. He discusses the psychological and emotional impacts of climate change education, advocating for a combination of cognitive knowledge, practical action, and emotional engagement.

The conversation also touches on Barry's criticism of current green politics, his potential political aspirations as a Councillor, and the need for a justice transformation approach to address the climate crisis comprehensively. The interview concludes with a call to action, encouraging revolutionary change and active hope to combat climate challenges.

This episode also includes a vox pop with an audience member of Earth Rising.

Recorded at the Earth Rising Festival 2025, IMMA, Dublin.

Host: Dr Dave Robbins

Editor & Producer: Louise Romain

Music credits: The Last Prophecy by Alex Besss; No Alibi by Little Planet; Dark Lake by Simon Folwar; You Didn’t Say Goodbye by Abstract Aprils

Intro and outro: Like Flying by Danijel Zambo