On March 8, 2023, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the University of Washington will convened U.S. Government officials with climate, sustainability, and resilience leaders and educators from colleges and universities across the country for a virtual forum. Climate Impact Lab co-director Robert Kopp joined a series of speakers and panel discussions in showcasing how innovative ideas and actions can support climate change efforts on college campuses while benefitting the surrounding communities and beyond.
Three panel discussions showcased key themes, including:
- Starting with trust as the essential ingredient for successful campus and community partnerships;
- Making sure underserved communities that are the most vulnerable to climate impacts are at the forefront of developing and deploying climate solutions;
- Ensuring that students have the knowledge and skills to lead in the clean industries of the future and to plan, deploy, and maintain the climate-smart infrastructure needed;
- Enabling campuses to provide essential climate extension services to states, municipalities, and indigenous communities; and
- Campus communities partnering with federal agencies to serve as proving grounds for new climate solutions and demonstrate pathways to net-zero emissions.