Bard College faculty discusses climate action and politics at BracU
On January 29th, the Social Impact Lab organized a seminar on global sustainability and actionable solutions through political understanding. Dr. Eban Goodstein, the chief guest, is a faculty member at Bard College and has also taught at Brac University for five years through the OSUN program. The program commenced at 12:30 PM in the auditorium with an introduction from the Dean of the School of General Education, Professor Dr. Samia Huq.
Dr. Goodstein began his talk by highlighting some of the ‘good news.’ He addressed the growing usage of solar power worldwide, which he believes can solve the climate crisis and transform politics worldwide by disrupting the oil monopolies. However, there are challenges. Despite wind and solar power usage growing annually, our temperatures have only increased after the 2000s. He states it is terrible news for a country like Bangladesh, which is predicted to lose much of its landmass underwater. Shakira Sharothi (Senior, ESS) says, “His works interested me as I am very focused on the effects of environmental factors.” Furthermore, the speaker criticized the steps taken by Donald Trump, stating that under him, “America is no longer a model of democracy but a model of dysfunction.”
Following his speech, a brief Q&A period followed with questions from students and faculties alike. Among many other students who joined the seminar, Shameem Hussain (Junior, CS) explained, “I am here due to my interest in the role of global politics in the climate crisis.” The event ended with many climate enthusiasts wanting to hear more from Dr. Goodstein; he smiled and assured them he would continue this conversation anytime soon.
