He highlighted Denmark, which produces 25 per cent of its energy from wind power due to strong state funding and at a cheaper cost than the UK's current energy sources.
"Unless the UK's antipathy to state intervention, and its entrepreneurs' disinterest in developing low-carbon technologies and individuals' lack of moral responsibility changes fast, the future looks bleak," he said.
Joining Chris Goodall in the debate was Alexis Krajeski, Associate Director of F&C Management Ltd. She backed his calls for the financial industry to take more notice of climate change and invest more heavily in low-carbon technologies.
"Not to do so would be short-sighted, given that climate chaos could ultimately cause economic slow-down," she said.
"Investment and insurance products in particular are vital in preventing and limiting the impact of droughts, flooding and other climate-related disasters. Given that the financial services sector possesses the analytical tools to measure climate-related risk, it is in a position to encourage more environmentally-friendly behaviour by the companies it invests in.
"Moreover, capital investment will be vital for driving the development of lower carbon technologies for a more sustainable future."
She also called for Government action, highlighting the need for a strong policy and regulatory framework that would enable the industry to do its part in reducing climate chaos.
JustShare is a coalition of churches and other development agencies seeking to engage with the City of London on issues of global and economic injustice. JustShare holds regular debates, training seminars and other events to promote justice for the poorest in the world and a just share of the world's resources for all.
Weblink: www.justshare.org.uk
