Jonathan Porritt to headline MRS Golden Jubilee conference

Date: 21 November 2006

MRS has announced the headline keynote speaker for Research 2007, the next 50 years - Jonathan Porritt. The eminent writer, broadcaster and commentator, and Chairman of the UK Sustainable Development Commission, will close the conference by speaking on the critical role of sustainable development in the future of global business.

Jonathan is also Founder Director of Forum for the Future, and Research 2007 delegates will hear how he has built up the UK’s leading sustainable development charity, working with world-leading companies to drive the case for environmentally-friendly business and industry. As well as being a controversial and captivating speaker, Jonathan will provide critical insight and advice for both researchers and the broader business community.

Chair of Programme Team Kevin McLean explains: “Sustainability is central to Research 2007’s focus on the people and concepts that will pave the way for the next half century. Market and social research has a central role to play in identifying and responding to the issues of climate change and sustainability that will not only safeguard the future of our planet, but help businesses of all sizes overcome the challenges and make the most of the opportunities presented by environmental insight.”

The Research 2007 conference programme will provide participants with the opportunity to take part in interactive debates and expert briefings alongside the renowned conference paper sessions. Focussing on ‘Research and the real world’ the conference will also include papers on ethical branding and the science of happiness.

In line with the theme of looking to a sustainable future, Research 2007, the next 50 years is to be MRS’ first event carbon neutral event. Organised through The CarbonNeutral Company and sponsored by Virtual Surveys, this agreement will see MRS donate the equivalent of the event’s ‘carbon footprint’ to invest in renewable energy.

Kevin continues: “We believe that carbon neutral is the way forward – and with Research 2007 focused on looking to the future and promoting the benefits of sustainable business, it seems only right that MRS takes a stand by committing to deliver a carbon neutral conference. As well as presenting an interesting talking point, we hope this will encourage delegates from across the business spectrum to think about what measures they can take to make their business practices a little ‘greener’.”

Sophie Russell-Ross, MRS conference manager, explains: “Research 2007, the next 50 years is a conference with a difference. We are thrilled to secure Jonathan Porritt as a keynote speaker who will deliver critical insights on a theme that is relevant to us all. The MRS conference is not only about research – it is about looking at the bigger picture of the future of business, and identifying opportunities and challenges for delegates to respond to. I am confident that Jonathan’s session will open up some fascinating debate, and contribute to what is shaping up to be a truly exciting conference.”

Research 2007, the next 50 years is running from 21-23 March 2006 at the Hilton Brighton Metropole. To pre-book tickets please visit www.research-live.com or contact Elaine Merrins on 020 7566 1878 / Elaine.Merrins@mrs.org.uk Delegates booking their conference tickets before 8 January 2007 qualify for a special ‘Early Bird Discount.’ Concessions are also available.

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Notes to editors

With members in more than 70 countries, MRS is the world’s largest association representing providers and users of market, social, and opinion research, and business intelligence.

MRS serves both individuals and organisations who identify with its core values of professionalism, excellence, and effectiveness. It has a diverse membership of individual researchers within agencies, independent consultancies, client-side organisations, the public sector and the academic community – at all levels of seniority and in all job functions.

MRS press officer Emily Luscombe on 020 7636 7366 / email eluscombe@camarguepr.com

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