The idea of establishing the Washington University Climate Change Program (WUCCP) was born in 2011 from an initiative called “Topics of Conversation” through the International Center for Energy, Environment and Sustainability (InCEES). These groups were small by design and met periodically to provide a forum for faculty from disparate disciplines to discuss issues surrounding energy and sustainable development. These conversations led to the establishment of the Washington University Climate Change Initiative (WUCCI), led by Dr. Peter H. Raven, President Emeritus of the Missouri Botanical Garden and George Engelmann Professor of Botany Emeritus. Under his direction, the initiative helped bring to the campus a range of climate change events.
Dr. Peter Raven, first leader of WUCCI.
Beth Martin, current director of WUCCP.
The initiative has now transitioned into the Washington University Climate Change Program and is currently coordinated by Beth Martin, interim-director and senior lecturer in Environmental Studies. The Program, supported by InCEES, draws together faculty, students, administrators, and community colleagues across disciplines to address common climate opportunities. WUCCP’s work is divided into three focus areas: outreach, research and curricula.
Our Focuses
Outreach
We endeavor to reach communities within WashU and outside of WashU on a local, regional, and global scale by establishing both partnerships and connections and engaging with efforts to combat climate change.
Research
We seek to connect WashU faculty of differing disciplines with each other and with outside opportunities, and we strive to promote the creation and dissemination of climate knowledge.
Curricula
We aim to be an interdisciplinary resource to students with an interest in the study of climate and teachers with an interest in climate education. Interdisciplinary climate curricula will prepare the leaders of tomorrow to think critically and creatively when addressing the challenges that come their way.
Questions or ideas?