Universities and the climate crisis

Here is an interesting article that discusses universities and climate change. Its title is "More universities are creating climate change programs to meet student demand." And the post states that "Programs dive into how to communicate about climate with the public, ethical and environmental justice aspects of climate solutions, and the roles lawmakers and businesses play in cutting greenhouse gases." Read in Fast Company: https://apple.news/AubAPJGG_QWi8MaI1tbKg3g What is OSU doing in this area? Should OSU offer edeucational opportunities related to both climate sciencer and climate policy, including climate change communication? Share what you know about what OSU is doing - and what you think it should do.

Comments

  1. Anton ChooJune 5, 2024 at 3:24 PM

    OSU is already currently doing several things to address climate change. From oregonstate.edu, I found that "From 2008-2023, OSU achieved greenhouse gas emissions reductions of 23%... that equates to a 51% reduction in emissions per student and 48% reduction in emissions per square foot of building space". Additionally, OSU offers several courses across various different departments relating to climate change and climate sciences. While OSU is actively addressing the global climate crisis, I personally think that they should expand its curriculum to include more integrated courses on climate policy and communication. I believe that this would allow students to not only understand climate science but also communicate and advocate for policy changes.
    Source: https://fa.oregonstate.edu/sustainability/climate-action

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  2. Asim AlzahraniJune 5, 2024 at 11:48 PM

    Oregon State University (OSU) is deeply committed to addressing climate change through a combination of educational programs and sustainability initiatives. The university has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 23% from 2008 to 2023, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2025 through systemic changes and investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects . OSU offers robust academic programs, including an undergraduate major in Climate Science and an online graduate certificate in Forests and Climate Change, designed to equip students and professionals with the knowledge and skills to address climate challenges . I think OSU should consider expanding interdisciplinary programs that integrate climate science with policy, communication, environmental justice, and marine studies. Offering more courses that address the ethical and social dimensions of climate solutions and increasing public engagement through workshops and seminars would further strengthen OSU's role in preparing students to tackle climate challenges.
    Oregon State University. (n.d.). Climate action | Finance and administration. Retrieved from https://fa.oregonstate.edu/sustainability

    Oregon State University. (n.d.). Climate science undergraduate major (BS, HBS). Retrieved from https://catalog.oregonstate.edu

    Oregon State University. (n.d.). Forests and climate change – Graduate certificates & minors – Graduate degrees & programs | Oregon State Ecampus. Retrieved from https://ecampus.oregonstate.edu

    Oregon State University. (n.d.). Oregon Climate Change Research Institute. Retrieved from https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/occri/

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  3. Avery BaronJune 6, 2024 at 6:37 PM

    Oregon State University has an international team of scientists led by OSU researchers that used a 500 year dataset plan recovery pathway to avoid ecological and social damage caused by climate change. The OSU researchers say their plan will strongly emphasize environmental sustainability. The restorative pathway is inspired by a collection of earth system variable's that depict how human resource needs have dramatically increased since 1850, illustrating an ecological overshoot. Human population growth, gdp growth and an increase in fossil fuel consumption has led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions changing the land and biodiversity. The restorative pathway main focus is nature preservation, natural climate solution and transition towards renewable energy. Yes I believe that OSU should offer educational opportunities related to climate science, policy and communication. These are all very important areas and can help us teach future generations of OSU students the science behind climate change, the negative effects on our planet and ways we can help minimize climate change. https://today.oregonstate.edu/news/scientists-outline-bold-solution-climate-change-biodiversity-loss-social-injustice

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  4. Declan AbersJune 7, 2024 at 9:46 PM

    OSU should prioritize offering a wide range of educational opportunities, particularly in the field of climate change, to support the diverse needs and aspirations of its students. As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, it is essential for universities to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address these global challenges. By providing comprehensive academic programs and research opportunities related to climate science, renewable energy, and sustainable practices, OSU can foster a learning environment that encourages innovation and practical solutions. The following is an article about research a student at OSU is doing that can help lessen the effects of climate change, this is proof of the concept that education on the subject will reduce its overall impact. https://today.oregonstate.edu/news/osu-ecologist-ocean-based-actions-can-close-gaps-climate-change-mitigation

    ReplyDelete
  5. Eric Morales SantosJune 7, 2024 at 11:21 PM

    OSU's Extension Services currently provides individuals resources such as ways to help the environment individually. One thing OSU can do is implement a baccore requirement of an environmental science class, specifically climate science.

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