Faculty of Social Sciences news
University of Sussex’s Professor Peter Newell honoured by Royal Geographical Society
By: Maria Andreou
Last updated: Friday, 19 June 2026
Peter will attend this year’s RGS annual conference in London in early September to showcase his work.
Recognising research advancing social justice goals
International Relations Professor Peter Newell has been honoured with the Activism Award by the Energy Geographies Research Group (EnGRG) of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS).
The Award recognises significant contributions to energy justice through public engagement, scholarship, teaching, direct action or other forms of impact.
Winners demonstrate a commitment to social justice and the empowerment of vulnerable and marginalised communities as part of the transition to a low-carbon future.
Contributions may include engagement with low-carbon energy transitions in local communities, educational activities beyond academia, conceptual advances in energy geographies or significant contributions to climate change policymaking.
The panel noted that Peter’s work 'far exceeded what would have been expected in terms of using one’s research to advance social justice goals', adding that 'it was very inspiring' to see what he has achieved.
Peter’s research and wider contributions
Peter has over 30 years’ experience researching climate change, energy politics and the global transition away from fossil fuels.
He has advised governments and international organisations worldwide, co-created the idea of a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty and co-founded the Rapid Transition Alliance. He also holds advisory roles with environmental organisations, academic journals and the Sussex School for Progressive Futures.
In 2025, Peter received the BISA Prize for Distinguished Contribution to International Relations and, this year, he was elected Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences.
On receiving the award, Peter said: 'It is a huge honour to be recognised by the UK’s leading geographical society, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of my work and the fact that I have learned and benefitted from working with many great geographers over the course of my career. It is important to recognise that, although the award is given to me as an individual, this work has only been possible thanks to the collective efforts of many thousands of activists around the world.'
Peter will attend this year’s RGS annual conference in London in early September to showcase his work.
About the Royal Geographical Society’s EnGRG
The Royal Geographical Society (RGS) is a UK-based charity and membership organisation, and the national learned society and professional body for geography. The Energy Geographies Research Group (EnGRG) is a volunteer-led research network within the RGS that supports research and teaching on energy issues.
It promotes the study of the geographical dimensions of energy and highlights the value of geographical perspectives in understanding and addressing energy challenges. Through events, publications and networking, it advances discussion on the social, political and spatial dimensions of sustainable energy futures, including energy transition, security and governance.
Find out more
Explore Peter’s research and wider contributions to energy justice and climate change and read more about the mission of the Energy Geographies Research Group.