Pull up a chair at one of 10 local bars and pubs for 20 inspiring talks about the latest advancements in sustainability, technology and social change. 

The City of Sydney and University of Sydney have teamed up for an evening of insight and innovation with the latest edition of Raising the Bar evening talks on Tuesday 9 April. 

"Raising the Bar is a fantastic event that brings together renowned academics, industry pioneers, scholars and influential thinkers to inspire and inform through an array of free talks,” Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said.

Get a taste of some of the talks from our diverse line-up of speakers:

Learn about the local impacts of climate change. Credit: Getty Images

A blueprint for building cooler cities

Executive director and founder of Sweltering Cities Emma Bacon interrogates how communities can combat extreme heatwaves to build more liveable, equitable and sustainable cities. Learn about the local impacts of climate change and the transformative approach to creating a cooler Sydney. Book tickets. Fortress Sydney, Chippendale 6pm

Hear how we can all contribute to the health of our oceans at Raising the Bar. Credit: Getty Images

The future of the oceans: what can the next generation do?

Ocean Youth ambassador and advisor Emily Rowland inspires action towards ocean protection by sharing impactful local stories and emphasising the role of community engagement. Hear how individuals can contribute to the health and vitality of our oceans. Book tickets. Hermann's Bar, Camperdown 8pm

Electric flights could revolutionise air travel with zero emissions. Image: Getty Images.

The future of electric flights

Siobhan Lyndon and Andrew Moore discuss the advancements in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and their potential to revolutionise air travel with zero emissions. Deep dive into the future of sustainable aviation and its role in mitigating climate change. Book tickets. Wayward Brewing Co, Camperdown 8pm

Wearable tech can support mental health. Image: Getty Images.

Harnessing brain waves to improve mental health

Neuroscientist and founder of Resonait, Cameron Higgins shares how wearable neuro-tech can support people in their recovery from depression by developing healthy cognitive habits. Hear about the latest science behind brain networks and mental health. Book tickets. The Barrie, Chippendale 6pm

Local governments have the unique power to create more sustainable forms of food production, reduce food insecurity and address unhealthy diets and poor nutrition. Image: Getty Images

Should local councils create better food systems?

Law lecturer Dr Belinda Reeve unpacks some of the innovative ways that local governments address food insecurity, despite not having a legal remit. Be surprised as you learn about the diverse ways in which local governments contribute to a healthier and more sustainable food system for all. Book tickets. Clare Bar, Chippendale 6pm

While they’re claimed as a quit smoking aid for adults, vapes are sold aggressively to young people. Image: Getty Images

10,000 flavours: the vape marketing trap

Associate Professor Becky Freeman is a global authority on how the tobacco and vaping industry circumvent advertising bans to market their products to young people. Learn how what was considered an emerging issue only a few years ago has accelerated into a health emergency. Book tickets. The Barrie, Chippendale 8pm

Unleashing purposeful investment for a better world

Greenfluence co-founder Vis Vythilingam invites you into the world of sustainable investing, exploring how businesses can generate long-term value by investing in people and the planet. Discover the trends that are shaping the future of responsible capital and hear how individual actions can influence organisational behaviour towards a sustainable future. Book tickets. Brix Distillers, Surry Hills 6pm

Migrapreneurs can unlock a better future for all

Usman Iftikhar, Co-Founder & CEO of Catalysr, explores the concept of climate migration and the untapped potential of migrants and refugees in shaping a sustainable economy. Discover how entrepreneurship can serve as a powerful tool for social and economic integration. Book tickets. Soultrap, Surry Hills 6:00 PM

Can your health be programmed like an app?

Pete Field, Co-Founder & CEO of Affectable Labs, explores the frontier of personalised healthcare, asking if our health data can be transformed into actionable insights for better well-being. Learn about the technologies aiming to program our bodies for health and longevity. Book tickets. The Abercrombie, Chippendale 8:00 PM

Carbon footprint 101: become a climate champion at work

Afonso Firmo, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of NetNada, breaks down the complexities of sustainable business practices and carbon measurement. Learn how technology can help organisations navigate the evolving landscape of corporate sustainability. Book tickets. The Private Kitchen, Chippendale. 8:00 PM

From dark matter, the intricacies of sleep science and the positive impact of dogs on public transport, there’s something for everyone. Find more Raising the Bar events and book your tickets.

Electric flights, cooling cities and mental health tech: Innovation at Raising the Bar