September 10, 2008
Seminar on global warming set for Sept. 16
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Several Southern Illinois University Carbondale and community partners are teaming up for a seminar about global warming’s impact.
“The Cascading Effects of Global Warming … And What You Can Do Now,” is set for Tuesday, Sept. 16, in the SIUC Student Health Center Auditorium. The forum includes panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions.
The event is free and open to the public. A pizza reception begins at 5:30 p.m.
Justin T. Schoof, an assistant professor in SIUC’s Department of Geography and Environmental Resources, will deliver the keynote speech beginning at 6 p.m. He is speaking on “Recent Climate Change: Are We Approaching a Tipping Point?”
A panel discussion, “How Global Warming is Affecting our Eco-System,” follows the keynote speech. The discussion focuses on biological, food production, agricultural, water resources, and climate changes around the world. Panelists are: Sara G. Baer, an assistant professor in SIUC’s Department of Plant Biology; Steven E. Kraft, chair of SIUC’s Department of Agribusiness Economics; and Christopher L. Lant, a professor in the geography and environmental resources department.
A second group discussion, “Taking Action: How You Can Be An Effective Part of the Solution,” begins at 7:30 p.m. Presenters and their topics are:
- Justin M. Harrell, an electrical engineer in SIUC’s Physical Plant, and president, SI Association of Professional Energy Consultants, on “Why Energy Efficiency is Our Best Solution.”
- DeJuan Kea, director of governmental and public relations, Illinois Principals Association, on “Influencing Decision Makers or How to Get What You Want Politics.”
- Representatives of several student, national and state organizations will discuss opportunities for action.
A dessert reception follows at 8:45 p.m.
Event sponsors are the League of Women Voters of Jackson County; SIUC Center for Delta Studies; United Nations Association of USA-Southern Illinois chapter; SIU Student Environmental Council; Paul Simon Public Policy Institute; Shawnee Group Sierra Club; Oxfam America; and the League of Women Voters Education Fund.