Amanda Carneiro Marques

Climate change is a global challenge that affects communities in diverse and often unequal ways. I understand climate justice as a concept developed to describe an equitable distribution of the benefits and burdens of climate change and its solutions across different areas and populations. It recognizes that climate change impacts are often exacerbated in marginalized and vulnerable communities and aims to address these inequalities by proposing inclusive policies and actions. By prioritizing communities’ diversity and well-being, climate justice can contribute to creating more resilient and inclusive societies better equipped to handle the multifaceted challenges posed by a changing climate.

Throughout my life, I always wanted to make a positive impact in the world. This is the main driver of my career choice as a water resources engineer and educator. I believe we can contribute to a better society through our actions and the knowledge and opportunities we offer to our students. I envision empowering students through education and research, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and the development of innovative approaches to pressing environmental issues. I am committed to supporting students in achieving their goals, encouraging professional development, and showing them the impact of their careers on our communities.

Alongside Fernanda da Campos Cruz Rios, I have been developing a project to understand the impacts of circular water strategies on flood mitigation and climate resilience for urban communities. This project assesses how environmental justice areas are impacted by combined sewer overflows and frequent flooding, proposing adaptation strategies to increase climate resilience and support sustainable water planning and management. In my classes, students engage in active learning projects to understand the impacts of hydraulic structures and incorporate climate change, environmental justice, and socio-environmental aspects in their work. I believe climate education should be a fundamental part of the learning process, focusing on the positive contributions students can make to a better society.