Conference Presentations

Climate justice seeks a more equal distribution of energy benefits and burdens within our communities. As universities decarbonize, they can advance climate justice by adopting solutions that reduce impacts and align with both university and community priorities. Decarbonization is a win-win for campuses, ending the carbon-producing combustion of fossil fuels linked to climate change while reducing operating costs. This session will demonstrate how the decarbonization process can be mutually beneficial for surrounding communities. Come learn how to incorporate community priorities into campus decarbonization efforts through shared-resource opportunities, a climate justice action plan, and resiliency to extreme weather and other events.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Analyze how university-community partnerships promote social equity, innovation, and safety.
2. Assess potential improvements on campus infrastructure that can enhance health and wellbeing for diverse communities.
3. Discuss the augmentation of energy infrastructure capital projects as a demonstration of ecological and financial benefit that advances community justice priorities.
4. Acquire the skills to evaluate campus spaces that promote equity and improve health outcomes for the community.

Presenters:

Thomas Iskra, Principal, Salas O'Brien
Angela Pakes, Associate Vice President, Decarbonization, Salas O'Brien
Torrey Spies, Senior Sustainability Strategist, Northeastern University
Tamar Warburg, Director of Sustainability, Sasaki

Delivered 04/07/2025.

EVENT REGISTRANTS ONLY
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