Yellowstone Times

Montana State University (MSU) will host its fourth annual Climate Week from April 21 to 24 on its campus in Bozeman. The event will feature lectures, discussions, and social gatherings focusing on climate change and strategies for managing its impacts.

Jackson Mundell, a senior in environmental science and one of the organizers, highlighted the challenges climate change poses to the Gallatin Valley and said, "Climate Week is aimed at promoting a solutions-based emphasis to conversations surrounding the climate crisis."

The week will kick off with a lecture on April 21 at 6:30 p.m. by oceanographer David Carlson at MSU’s Norm Asbjornson Hall. Carlson, who formerly directed the World Climate Research Programme, will discuss the planet's health indicators and the roles of citizens and scientists in addressing climate challenges.

On April 22, the 55th anniversary of Earth Day, the Reynolds Recital Hall will host a special performance by 406 Winds and other MSU music groups. The concert will feature specially composed Earth-themed pieces, accompanied by visuals and poetry. Following this, at 5:30 p.m., the Montana Climate Forum will be held online by the Citizens Climate Lobby Club. This discussion will involve panelists from various organizations presenting sustainable action plans.

The Climate Carnival will take place on April 23 at 3 p.m. in the Strand Union Building ballrooms. The event will include guest booths, games, snacks, and speakers. Heather White, author of “60 Days to a Greener Life,” will speak about eco-anxiety. Other topics include energy conservation, solar energy jobs, and Yellowstone bison management. Further details can be found online.

Climate Week will conclude on April 24 with the annual Student Research Celebration in the SUB ballrooms starting at 10 a.m. More than 40 students will present climate-related research. In the evening, a Pizza and Politics panel will discuss climate change issues in Montana, featuring MSU Regents Professor Emerita Cathy Whitlock, Gallatin County Commissioner Zach Brown, author Heather White, and Evan Romasco-Kelly from Gallatin Valley Sunrise.

Throughout the week, the MSU Library will showcase a selection of books on climate-related topics.

Paul Lachapelle from MSU's Department of Political Science commented, “Faculty are excited to be partnering with students and staff to again provide learning opportunities on what many scientists consider to be the most consequential issue facing humanity.”

The events are sponsored by the Campus Climate Coalition and Climate Solutions Group. They are free and open to the public. The full schedule is available online.

For further details, contact Paul Lachapelle at paul.lachapelle@montana.edu or 406-994-3620.