Friday, April 22 marks the 52nd anniversary of Earth Day – and UVM has been there from the beginning. There are many ways to get involved and deepen your understanding of sustainability, climate change, ecology, and more! Join Student Life, Eco-Reps, Student Government Association, and other campus partners for UVM’s annual celebration of the environment, sustainability, and our amazing planet. All events are listed on UVM Bored but we want to call special attention to the following event sponsored by our office and Gund Institute for the Environment:

Thinking Ahead: UVM & Vermont Planning for a Changing Climate
APRIL 25, 5-6 P.M. 
WATERMAN MEMORIAL LOUNGE

According to the Vermont Climate Assessment, published by the University of Vermont, the Green Mountain State is becoming warmer and wetter due to climate change—trends that will reshape life in this state.

To address the urgency of a changing climate, in 2020 state lawmakers passed the Global Warming Solutions Act which legally requires Vermont to reduce its emissions in the coming decades.  Members of Vermont’s Climate Council crafted a statewide Climate Action Plan, published in December 2021 with strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The first of these deadlines (2025) is coming up fast.

In 2021, the University of Vermont began the development of the UVM Comprehensive Sustainability Plan with a renewed commitment to sustainability leadership. Join university and state leaders for a conversation about the Global Warming Solutions Act, and Vermont Climate Action Plan. Learn about opportunities to engage with these efforts and inform plans as they are developed and implemented.

The discussion will be moderated by: Stephen Posner, Director of Policy at the Gund Institute for the Environment. Other participants:

Elizabeth Palchak, UVM Office of Sustainability Director
Lesley-Ann Dupigny-Giroux, UVM Professor in Geography & Geosciences; VT State Climatologist
Jane Lazorchak, Global Warming Solutions Act Project Director, Agency of Natural Resources

Refreshments provided.