Climate Change

What can you do to mitigate climate change?
Oddly enough, exactly what you are doing, getting educated.

Yes, recycling, yes reducing our dependence of fossil fuels, yes carpooling, but one of the best things you can do to mitigate global warming is to get educated on exactly why this steps are necessary to return our biosphere to balance. The University of Houston offers a number of ways to increase our knowledge about the current climate crisis and what we can do to stop it.

The Environment Club: Newly formed in 2008, the UH Environment Club is undertaking a host of bold initiatives to reduce the UH footprint and educate our community about how to heal our planet. Join in and help make a difference and learn more at the same time. Check out the website here. www.enviroclubatuh.blogspot.com .

Summer and Fall Classes: A number of classes from different disciplines are being offered on the subject of climate change. For more information on the classes, please email the professors.

Summer

The University Houston Carbon Footprint, Dr. Barry Lefer and Dr. Bishop:  This cross disciplinary class, taught by professors from the Geo Science and the Futures Studies departments, will measure the carbon footprint (how much CO2 the university emits). The results will be used to help reduce our impact on the environment. (In planning).

Fall:
GEOL 1302, Introduction Global Climate Change, Dr. Barry Lefer:  Examines how past climate records and models provide a better understanding of possible future climate changes. Greenhouse gases, solar output, Earth’s orbit, and anthropogenic effects.

ELET 4310 Alternative Energy Sources, Dr. Wajiha Shireen: COURSE OBJECTIVES:  To introduce the students to alternate energy systems like photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power, wind power systems, fuel cell systems etc., including the concept of distributed generation. Relative advantages and economic factors associated with alternative energy sources, utility interface issues and their impact on power quality are also covered.

Law and Business, Dr. Victor Flatt: New administrative systems that will accompany climate change legislation (in particular CO2 trading), (in planning)

Geosciences and Futures Studies, Drs Barry Lefer and Peter Bishop: The economic, political and social impacts of climate change, Drs. Barry Lefer and Peter Bishop (in planning).

Events

If you missed the big Focus the Nation Event, more events are going on around Texas. Check out the Calendar page for updates.