The Schedule

(M) Yes, It’s Possible: Persistent Success at Cornell University towards Carbon Neutrality

Sarah Brylinsky, Sustainability Communications & Integration Manager, Cornell University

In the early 2000s, students across the country mobilized to create a powerful new youth voting block, worked side by side with administrators and non-profit organizers to create the first lasting industry carbon neutrality effort, and in recent years have dedicated their efforts to the pursuit of climate change divestment. Have these efforts been successful – if so, why? How? This session will focus on the systemic organizational factors that have allowed for student and higher education success in shifting the tide towards a more just and sustainable future, using Cornell University and the above major national movements as learning touchstones. Learn about Cornell’s climate neutrality efforts, climate action plan, and how the campus has managed to continue pursuing deep systems change amidst crisis.

Science and Social Justice

Karen Berger, Associate Professor and Coordinator of College Sustainability Studies, University of Rochester

Lee Murray, Assistant Professor, University of Rochester

Understanding how Earth's climate works is a critical first step in understanding how human activity alters the climate. In this session, Professor Murray will discuss the physical science basis for climate change & Professor Berger will provide a brief overview of the diverse human impacts of climate change, before focusing on impacts that disproportionately impact certain populations. Climate justice seeks to identify and reduce inequities, and to ensure that adaptation strategies are accessible for all.

City of Rochester’s Sustainability Initiatives

Shalini Beath, Energy and Sustainability Analyst at the City of Rochester’s Department of Environmental Services/Division of Environmental Quality

The City of Rochester developed a Community-wide Climate Action Plan, Vulnerability Assessment and Climate Change Resilience Plan as well as strategies and programs to reduce the impacts of climate change and better adapt to climate change. The City’s sustainability initiatives are aimed at reducing our community’s greenhouse gas emissions, building resilience and working with stakeholders to implement climate change adaptation strategies. In this session, learn about ongoing and upcoming climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts that promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, green infrastructure, waste reduction and more.

Sustainability at the University of Rochester: Facilities and Dining

Cam Schauf, Director of Campus Dining Services & Auxiliary Operations, University of Rochester

Mike Whitmore, Director, Utilities & Energy Management, University of Rochester

Globally, the energy and agriculture sectors account for an estimated 50% of total greenhouse gas emissions. In this session, Directors Mike Whitmore and Cam Schauf will present on the University of Rochester's sustainability efforts in those areas.

The UofR has a history of adapting its energy infrastructure to align with the state’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. In the spirit of Meliora (Ever Better) we have been inspired by previous projects and best practices to reduce purchased energy, lower greenhouse gas emissions and support the University’s sustainability goals.

UofR Dining Services strives to conduct its activities in an ecologically sound, socially just and economically viable manner. In recent years, considerable effort has been made to function as a member of a sustainable community, embody responsible consumption, promote ecological literacy and environmentally sound practices among students, faculty, and staff, and support these values in the local community.