Published: January 21, 2008 11:23 pm      

UPJ set to host conference on global warming

One of the hot topics that is generating debate around the country is global warming and what it means for the future of the planet.

Pitt-Johnstown will host a forum on global warming solutions Jan. 31 in the Student Union Cambria Room.

“We feel that global climate change and warming is an important issue and needs to be addressed,” said Mary Lavine, an event organizer and UPJ geography professor.

“This coincides with other colleges and universities around the nation (that) will be having their own events on global warming.”

During the forum, more than 20 speakers representing various academic disciplines and three guest speakers from the community will give brief presentations on a wide range of global-warming topics.

“Presentations will be 10 minutes or less,” Lavine said. “This allows students to come in for an hour or so between classes.”

Faculty presenters represent many fields, including health, anthropology, biology, business, chemistry, engineering, economics, education and English.

“We address this from a variety of perspectives and disciplines because global warming is not just a science issue,” Lavine said.

Guest speakers include, Brad Clemenson from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council; Brandi Nagle from the Environmental Credit Corp.; and Eric Foley from the St. Francis Renewable Energy Center.

“We’re doing this to raise awareness and to help motivate students to take the next step,” Lavine said.

“These are the next generation of decision-makers. And we encourage them to look at the presidential debates and see what the candidates have to say about finding a solution.”

Lavine anticipates a good turnout and said that, although most of those in attendance will be students, she encourages the public to come out and participate.

“This is something the community will find interesting,” she said.



Climate chat

What: Global warming solutions forum.

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 31 in the Student Union Cambria Room on the Pitt-Johnstown campus.

Cost: Free.

For more information and a list of topics: Visit the UPJ Web site at www.upj.pitt.edu..