This session will occur at the AAAS Annual Meeting on Friday, February 14, 2020 from 12:00 - 1:30 PM PT. To attend, please register at the AAAS Meetings website.
Synopsis
As the world drastically changes due to climate change, communities are working together to build resilience and enact sustainable practices for a better future on Earth. While outreach from scientists and scientific communities is essential to equip societies for the effects of climate change, local religious leaders have become an underappreciated resource in the creation of climate resilient communities. Many religious leaders are helping their neighborhoods adapt by connecting historical cultures and practices with forefront science. This session will explore the interconnections between resilient communities and faith traditions. Topics to be discussed include the current climate science data being used by faith communities to assist vulnerable populations; how religious and indigenous communities are adapting to become more resilient in this new world, and how elements of various faith traditions, combined with cutting edge science, can provide resources and tools for communities.
Organizers
Curtis L. Baxter, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Washington, DC
Lilah Sloane, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Washington, DC
Discussant
Patty Bowman, Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center, Seattle, WA
Speakers
Susan Bratton, Baylor University, Waco, TX
Vijaya Nagarajan, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Brian Cladoosby, Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, LaConner, WA