January 30, 2009–The University of Utah Office of Sustainability will host the 2009 Focus the U on Climate Change Teach-In February 2 – 6. Events are all free and open to the public and designed to draw attention to the latest scientific understanding of global warming and potential solutions to this urgent challenge. Co-sponsors include the Lowell Bennion Community Service Center student group SEED and the Hinckley Institute of Politics.
This marks the second year the university has hosted a teach-in event. Last year, 86 university instructors teaching 110 courses participated by incorporating material on climate change and global warming solutions during one class period.
By all accounts, this was a tremendous success for its inaugural year, said University of Utah President Michael K. Young. “But let’s not stop there. Let’s keep the momentum going for everyone’s sake.
The U’s program is part of the National Teach-In on Global Warming Solutions, with over 600 colleges, universities, high schools, faith organizations and civic groups scheduled to participate.
For more details about how you can get involved, please contact the University of Utah Office of Sustainability at (801) 585-9352 or visit the following Web site: http://www.sustainability.utah.edu/.
Schedule of Public Events:
Monday, February 2nd 6:00-7:00 p.m.
• National Teach-in, “Solutions First 100 Days” Webcast
What: Come hear what experts in the field of climate change, business and sustainability have to say about what the new administration can do in the first 100 days to respond to climate change. A reception and discussion will follow the webcast.
Who: David Orr, Hunter Lovins, Betsy Taylor, Ray Anderson, Dianne Dillon-Ridgely, Jessy Tolkan, Billy Parish and Wahleah Johns.
Location: Union Theatre
Wednesday, February 4th 6:00-7:30 p.m.
• Screening of “HEAT”
What: A PBS Frontline documentary about climate change and politics. Come see an excellent presentation from a global perspective about the challenges we face and the solutions that are needed. The screening will be followed by an informal reception and discussion forum held in the Union Den.
Location: Union Theatre
Thursday, February 5th 6:00 -7:30 p.m.
• Main event, “Building a Green Economy”
What: A panel discussion with local government leaders and other experts. Come hear what leaders think about the possibilities and opportunities, locally and beyond, for building a stable economy based on sustainability, efficiency, and clean energy. Find out about the barriers that government, business and non-profits face in making this transition. How can students and community members help?
Who: Kerry Case, Westminster College, Moderator; Jason Berry, State Energy Program; Ann Ober, Salt Lake County Mayor’s Office; Luke Garrott, Salt Lake City Council; Kent Udell, University of Utah Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Location: Carolyn Tanner Irish Humanities Building (CTIHB), Room 101