Speaker: Peter Lunn (ESRI)

Title: Weighing impact: A series of behavioural studies to inform obesity prevention policy

Abstract: This talk will describe a research programme undertaken in support of Ireland’s Obesity Prevention Action Plan. A series of six behavioural studies has deployed a broad range of methods, including randomised controlled trials, eye-tracking studies and online experiments, covering issues from nutritional labelling to the public’s willingness to accept more radical anti-obesity policies. As well as describing the methods and results, the talk will consider lessons regarding the best use of behavioural science for tackling large and complex policy problems, especially those that involve a powerful industry.