BU Sustainability, including CAS students, Professor of Earth & Environment Sucharita Gopal, and Sustainability Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Earth & Environment Dennis Carlberg, hosted an event honoring the 50th Earth Day. The virtual event discussed BU’s sustainability plan, as well as how COVID-19 is affecting the planet and the University’s actions regarding sustainability.
Topics discussed include how virtual learning has increased awareness of access and disability needs, including the digital divide and how to make remote learning more available and accessible, as well as increased awareness of how certain populations are vulnerable to a host of stressors, including COVID-19. They mentioned how our current situation will lead to more inclusive thinking and decision-making.
They also talked about how remote work will affect commuting and if companies will potentially use office space differently in the future. Students discussed what they miss about campus. The event emphasized the importance of small actions and how doing a little can still impact the greater good. You can view Dennis’s presentation here, and BU Sustainability posted both portions of the event on their website.