Last week, ENVS PhD student Devon Reynolds, joined a panel of finance and social responsiblity experts to discuss the arguments surrounding divesting from fossil fuels. Fossil fuel companies have been some of the most consistently profitable businesses over the last century, which is why universities and other large organizations across the US and globe have trillions tied up in investments of fossil fuel companies. To accomplish a clean energy transition and avoid a climate catastrophe, money must not only be invested in climate friendly companies and projects, but funds must be moved from dirty fossil fuel companies. Titled "Debating Divestment" the panel discussed the business case for and against divestment and Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. 

You can read more about divestment and the event here.

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This week ENVS PhD candidate, Emily Nocito, and Assistant Professor, Cassandra Brooks, presented at the 5th annual International Marine Protected Area Congress () in Vancouver, BC. IMPAC is a global forum that brings together scientists, government officials, conservation managers, and many more to inform and act on marine protected areas. 

Checkout the IMPAC  for more info.

 

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The Chancellor's Annual Summit was held on Feb. 23, and the Department of Environmental Studies was honored to participate in several ways this year. Every year the Chancellor's Annual Summit is held to give CU Boulder alumni and community members an opportunity to learn about timely and global issues from CU faculty, researchers, and leaders. This year's topic, "CU Working to Forge a Just and Sustainable Future," highlighted how climate change is affecting human rights around the world. 

The Summit features presentations on the chosen topic by CU experts and leaders. ENVS Assistant Professor, Matt Burgess, was invited to present at this year's summit and spoke on the issue of political polarization in the US and how this is interacting with and complicating action on climate change. A key message Dr. Burgess emphasized is that the only way forward on climate change is together. Dr. Burgess joined others in speaking, including Governor Jared Polis.

Networking opportunities are also an important feature of each year's Summit. ENVS particpated by manning a table at the event, and ENVS Chair, Max Boykoff, and other faculty and students were present. 

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