Written by Taylor Bennett, Climate Neutral 2025 Education Coordinator, Student Sustainability Initiative
Everyone has the power to do something about climate change, but there is one group in particular who is tasked with an especially important role; youth. The term “youth” applies to the 15-25 year age group, which encompasses most of the students at a 4-year university. Being at a university also provides a unique opportunity for engagement as educational resources, clubs, organizations, and professors are never more than a short walk away. For this reason, the atmosphere of a college campus is usually full of passion and possibility. That’s the outlook necessary for tackling a problem like climate change.
It may seem like our “campus bubble” separates us from the issue, but in fact, the opposite is true. We have essentially limitless resources available to help us develop creative ways to approach climate change on a campus and community level. The only other things needed to be successful in a task like this are determination and enthusiasm. Climate change affects all of us, but it doesn’t have to be the doom and gloom scenario it’s often made out to be. If we all took the initiative to seek out available resources and become involved in climate action, what a wonderful and sustainable place OSU could be!
It doesn’t matter if you’re a Climate Science major or not – although there is a fantastic new program for that – we can all play a role in creating a climate friendly Corvallis. If you would like to get involved, here are a few things to get you started…
Know Your Climate: Know about climate change but not sure how to approach it? This two-workshop series will provide tools and resources you can use to talk about the issues and get involved in the climate movement. Attendees will participate in group discussions, learn how to upcycle disposable products, and get connected to useful climate literacy resources.
Nov. 9th & 16th 5:00-6:30 pm in the Student Involvement Lounge (SEC 112). Dinner provided.
Climate Science Option: The Climate Science option is built on a strong foundation of physical climate system science as well as an emphasis on the intersection of climate with biological, social, political, and economic systems. All students participate in “hands-on” experiential learning through field classes, project focused classes such as Climate Data Analysis and Climate Modeling, and senior research or internships. A broad set of electives allows students to pursue additional course work to prepare them in their specific areas of interest.
For more information, contact Karen Shell, Program Head: kshell@coas.oregonstate.edu
CATEGORIES: Academics Events and Outreach Student Sustainability Initiative