09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
About the event
Climate Change Reset: Learning from the Global Pandemic
Thank you to the sponsors of Climate Change Reset: Learning from the Global Pandemic:
SPEC, Participedia, North Family Foundation, SFU Faculty of Environment
We are at a profound crossroads with respect to understanding and leveraging this moment of crisis into new possibilities for climate action.
Over the course of five 90-minute sessions, we will discuss climate leadership, climate policy, communication and the need for collective action. We will hear from climate scientists, policy experts and communications leaders. We will think collaboratively about what new stories are needed at this moment, and what the pandemic is teaching us about strategy, system change and action.
Program
Session 1
Wednesday, May 20
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Mobilizing Action on Climate during a Global Pandemic: Lessons for Climate Leaders
The coronavirus crisis has shaken the world. Could the global pandemic be a giant reset for the planet? If so, what changes can we expect in the months and years ahead? In this first session of Climate Change Reset, we talk about how the coronavirus crisis will impact everything from the climate movement, to how we craft public policy.
Speakers:
Tzeporah Berman, International Program Director, Stand.Earth
Andrea Reimer, City Leader
Moderators:
Joanna Ashworth, SFU Faculty of Environment
Oliver Lane, SPEC
Session 2
Wednesday, May 27
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Communicating Urgency: Motivating and Equipping the Public for Climate Action
The global pandemic feels like an immediate and personal threat. But, for millions around the world, climate change still does not have the same sense of urgency as Covid-19. Why is that? What are some of the blind spots in terms of how we communicate climate risk? How do we mobilize different audiences for climate change – from those that are already very engaged, to lower-involved groups – to take climate action?
Speakers:
Shane Gunster, Associate Professor, School of Communication, SFU
Kamyar Razavi, PhD Candidate, School of Communication, SFU
Moderator:
Joanna Ashworth, SFU Faculty of Environment
Session 3
Wednesday, June 3
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Activating Compassion and the Creative Spirit at a Time of Crisis
The coronavirus crisis is a window into some of the thoughts, feelings and emotions that emerge when systems get inundated and people feel overloaded. With all that’s going on, what are some of the ways that people have learned to adapt? In this webinar, we discuss the role of ecological grief at a time of heightened anxiety. We also examine the role of art and artists in helping people thrive.
Speakers:
Olive Dempsey, Facilitator, Engagement Strategist & Coach, Reconnecting to Life
Kendra Fanconi, Artistic Director, The Only Animal Theatre Company
Moderator:
Oliver Lane, SPEC
Session 4
Wednesday, June 10
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Climate Justice and Vulnerable Communities: Investing in Resilience
The global coronavirus crisis has laid bare the stark inequalities that exist in our society. The crisis has forced people and governments all over the world to actively challenge status quos and to seek ways to provide basic economic support for all who need it. The climate emergency similarly calls on us to push for transformational changes. Here, we explore how solutions-oriented climate journalism and other forms of digital storytelling can enhance social and environmental justice.
Speaker:
Emilee Gilpin, Journalist, Canada’s National Observer
Jestinne Punzalan & Jocelle Refol, Shades of Sustainability
Moderator:
Sophia Yang
Session 5
Wednesday, June 17
9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Identifying Top Actions for Climate Leaders: What is the New Story We Need to Tell?
Using the participatory elements of a design jam, we will brainstorm to identify ideas and solutions for effective climate leadership. Participants will work collaboratively to identify tangible actions they may take in their personal climate leadership practice. We will also explore creative communications methods for climate action.
Hosted by:
Jesi Carson, Participedia and Vancouver Design Nerds
Tara Mahoney, SFU CityStudio