Campus Climate Justice Toolkit
Climate justice is a critical issue that intersects with social equity and environmental sustainability. On college campuses, where our young minds shape the future, addressing climate change is not just a matter of policy but morally essential. As educational institutions, universities play a pivotal role in shaping the attitudes and actions of future leaders toward environmental sustainability. The Campus Climate Justice Toolkit by College Educated serves as a comprehensive resource to empower college communities to address climate issues effectively.
Understanding Climate Justice
Climate justice is a movement and a concept that seeks to address the unequal distribution of climate change impacts and advocate for fair and equitable solutions. At its core, climate justice recognizes that marginalized and vulnerable communities, including low-income communities, communities of color, indigenous communities, and those in developing countries, often bear the greatest burden of environmental degradation and climate change impacts. These communities typically have fewer resources and political power to adapt to and mitigate these impacts.
Climate justice advocates for policies and actions that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also ensure that the benefits and costs of those actions are distributed fairly. It emphasizes the need for inclusive and participatory decision-making processes that empower affected communities to shape solutions that meet their needs.
How Climate Justice Relates to Social Issues
Climate justice intersects with various social justice issues, including race, gender, and economic inequality. Understanding these intersections is crucial for developing effective climate policies that address the needs of all communities.
Race and Environmental Justice
According to NRDC, studies consistently show that communities of color in the United States are disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards such as air and water pollution, toxic waste sites, and industrial facilities. These communities also tend to experience higher rates of asthma, cancer, and other health problems linked to environmental exposures. Climate change exacerbates these existing environmental injustices, placing additional burdens on these communities.
Gender and Climate Justice
Women, particularly in developing countries, often bear the primary responsibility for household water supply, food security, and energy provision. As climate change impacts water and food availability, and increases the frequency of natural disasters, women’s livelihoods and well-being are disproportionately affected. Addressing climate change from a gender perspective involves ensuring women’s participation in decision-making processes and providing them with resources and support to adapt to climate impacts.
Economic Inequality and Climate Justice
Low-income communities and developing countries are often the most vulnerable to climate change impacts, despite contributing the least to global greenhouse gas emissions. They face challenges such as a lack of access to clean water, adequate healthcare, and infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events. Climate justice seeks to address these disparities by advocating for financial and technological support for vulnerable communities to adapt to climate change and transition to sustainable economies.
Our Climate State: State-of-Calamity
Earth, our home, is experiencing unprecedented warming, with observable impacts such as melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events. The scientific consensus is clear: urgent action is needed to reduce further climate change.
Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets
According to NASA, glaciers and ice sheets worldwide are melting at accelerating rates due to rising temperatures. For instance, the Greenland Ice Sheet has lost an average of 286 billion tons of ice per year between 1993 and 2016, with the rate of loss increasing over time.
Rising Sea Levels
Based on NASA’s data, sea levels are rising due to thermal expansion of the oceans and the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers. Since the early 20th century, global sea levels have risen by about 8-9 inches (20-23 centimeters), and the rate of rise is accelerating.
Extreme Weather Events
Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and droughts. Warmer temperatures increase the energy and moisture available to storms, intensifying their impact.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
EPA’s Data shows that greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from human activities such as burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial processes, are the main drivers of climate change. These gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), trap heat in our planet’s atmosphere, leading to global warming.
Scientific Consensus and Urgent Action
The scientific consensus on climate change is overwhelming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has repeatedly stated that human activities are obviously warming the planet, and urgent and ambitious actions are needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Culture and Climate
Cultural values play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards climate change. Indigenous rights and environmental justice movements are prime examples of cultural movements that address climate change. Indigenous communities, for instance, often possess profound knowledge and practices that contribute to environmental stewardship and offer valuable insights into sustainable practices.
Indigenous cultures have historically maintained a deep connection with the land and natural resources, often viewing the environment as sacred and integral to their way of life. This perspective fosters sustainable practices that prioritize conservation and respect for ecosystems.
For example, traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) held by many Indigenous communities offers unique insights into ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation strategies. These insights are increasingly recognized as valuable contributions to global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
Climate Science
Climate change is primarily driven by greenhouse gas emissions resulting from human activities. These gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading to global warming and a cascade of environmental impacts.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) provides robust scientific evidence supporting the reality of climate change. Their reports emphasize the urgent need for immediate and ambitious action to limit global temperature rise. Beyond global warming, climate change results in a wide range of impacts, including:
- Melting of polar ice caps and glaciers: This contributes to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems.
- Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events: Such as hurricanes, heatwaves, floods, and droughts, causing significant economic and human losses.
- Disruption of ecosystems and biodiversity loss: This leads to changes in habitats and threatens the survival of many species.
Climate and Public Health
Climate change is risky to vulnerable populations, such as low-income communities and the elderly, who are disproportionately affected. Climate change poses significant risks to public health, including:
- Extreme Heatwaves: Increasing in frequency and severity, leading to heat-related illnesses and mortality, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
- Worsened Air Quality: Higher levels of ground-level ozone (O3) and particulate matter (PM2.5) worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, increasing hospital admissions and premature deaths.
- Spread of Infectious Diseases: Warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns expand the range and seasonality of diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease.
- Health Disparities: Low-income communities and marginalized populations face greater health risks due to inadequate access to healthcare and exposure to environmental hazards.
Climate Issues on Campuses
Campuses are not immune to climate change. Local climate patterns affect the campus environment, including green spaces, biodiversity, and water resources. Urban heat islands, made of concrete and asphalt surfaces, can increase temperatures on campus, affecting outdoor activities and energy use.
Climate change affects the campus community’s health, well-being, and student life. Extreme weather events can disrupt campus operations, leading to canceled classes and events. Furthermore, students from affected areas may experience stress and anxiety related to climate-related disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires.
Creating a Climate-Aware Campus
Across the globe, students are leading the charge for climate justice. Movements like the Global Climate Strike have mobilized millions, demanding climate action from governments and institutions. These movements highlight the power of youth activism in driving systemic change and pushing for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability and social justice.
Universities play a crucial role in promoting climate justice through sustainability initiatives, renewable energy projects, and environmental policies. Many institutions have committed to achieving carbon neutrality and promoting sustainable practices. For example, universities are increasingly investing in solar energy, implementing green building standards, and integrating sustainability into their curriculum.
What Can You Do? (Ways to Get Involved)
You play a crucial role in advancing climate justice and sustainability efforts both locally and globally. By adopting sustainable practices and advocating for change, you can contribute to a healthier planet and community. Key actions include reducing energy consumption by using energy-efficient appliances and conserving heating and cooling usage. Promoting recycling and waste reduction practices helps minimize landfill waste and supports sustainable waste management.
Supporting sustainable food options and local agriculture helps reduce food waste and promotes healthier food choices. Getting involved in community organizations and local initiatives allows you to collaborate with community leaders and activists, amplifying efforts toward environmental justice. Supporting community-led initiatives, volunteering for environmental projects, and advocating for policy changes at all levels of government are effective ways for individuals to contribute to climate action and promote sustainable development.
The Future of Campus Climate Justice
The future of campus climate justice looks promising, with increasing awareness and commitment from universities and students alike. For example, the University of California system has committed to carbon neutrality by 2025, while Harvard University has launched ambitious sustainability goals. These initiatives have led to reduced carbon emissions, increased energy efficiency, and a more sustainable campus environment. As climate change continues to be a pressing issue, there is growing momentum for universities to lead by example and prioritize sustainability in their operations and educational missions.
Climate Friendly at College Educated
Campus climate justice is a vital component of building a sustainable future. By addressing climate change through an equitable and just lens, universities can lead the way toward a more sustainable and resilient society. Educators and young adult leaders, inspire the next generation to take action! Get in touch with us today and together at College Educated, we can create a future where environmental sustainability and social equity go hand in hand.
Climate Justice Resources
In addition to the resources above, we’ve compiled an extensive set of resources on specific areas of climate justice, including podcasts and books, so you can expand your knowledge of how you can impact the climate.
Race and Environmental Justice
What is Environmental Racism?
From the cancer clusters in Louisiana to the toxic water in Michigan, this page goes over the types of environmental racism and what the term means.
Unequal Impact: The Deep Links Between Racism and Climate Change
Read the words of Beth Gardiner here as she interviews an activist on the connection between climate change and racism from a modern perspective.
Environmental Justice: The Intersectionality of Race and Human Rights in the Movement
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights highlights the importance of environmental justice in April and offers ways to support the cause year-round.
Racial Disparities and Climate Change
This is a great resource for those who want to learn more about climate change and how it affects race during natural disasters and other ways.
Environmental Justice & Environmental Racism
Check out this site to find out what environmental justice and environmental racism cover and the common principles behind both terms.
Gender and Climate Justice
Climate Justice Requires Gender Justice
In this blog post, a college student argues about why climate justice cannot exist without gender justice and the best ways to move forward.
Feminist Climate Justice: A Framework for Action
Released in 2023, this downloadable PDF looks at the four dimensions connected to feminism and the link they have to the issue of climate justice.
Introduction to Gender and Climate Change
Learn about climate change and the connection it has to gender in today’s world through this lengthy page designed by the United Nations.
Gender Justice is Climate Justice
This 2023 article talks about how world leaders committed to finding solutions for climate change and how they need to approach gender justice too.
5 Min Inspiration: Climate Justice Requires Gender Justice
Read the words of real people as they talk about the importance of gender justice and why it’s necessary to achieve climate justice today.
Economic Inequality and Climate Justice
Climate Justice and Inequality
Chapter 5 of this online book focuses on climate justice and inequality, going over the reasons why it’s a justice issue and what society needs to do.
Linking Climate and Inequality
From the International Monetary Fund, it takes less than 10 minutes to read this article and discover the risk that climate inequality has in the future.
Climate Change Has Worsened Global Economic Inequality
The growing link between economic inequality and climate change is the focus of this article, which includes some practical examples to help you learn more.
Climate Change and Inequality
Take the climate change quiz on this site to test your knowledge and then read about how the issue led to major inequality among certain populations.
Climate Change and Economic Inequality: Are We Responding to Health Injustices?
Published in the Health and Human Rights Journal, this article looks at how some organizations are fighting for health justice in a world where inequality is common.
Climate Science
What is Climate Science?
Find answers to any questions you have about climate science and what it means on this page from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
Climate Science Special Report
Read through the fourth assessment to see the impact climate change has on the United States and how the issues will only grow in the coming years.
What is Climate Science?
ACS designed this page for anyone who wants to learn about climate science and included sections on skeptics and bringing the issue into the classroom.
Climate Change Science
The EPA dedicated an entire section of its website to climate change science, providing resources and information for those who want to learn more about laws and regulations.
What is Climate Science Literacy?
Learn about climate science literacy here and discover why it matters in simple lists filled with bulleted info designed for readers of all ages.
Climate Science Alliance
The Climate Science Alliance website lets you learn about its mission and the steps the organization takes to protect humans and their environments.
Public Health
Health and Climate Change
The World Bank Group designed this page of its website to explain why climate change is a global health emergency that needs an urgent response.
Climate Change, Health, and Equity
Find a guide to climate change on the American Health Association website that covers health communications, the impact of climate change on health, and much more.
Human Health Impacts of Climate Change
The National Institute on Environmental Health Sciences helps visitors learn about the health impacts of climate change on humans like foodborne illnesses and water diseases.
Why Climate Change is a Public Health Issue
Two members of One Earth came together to explain why climate change is a public health issue and how their organization hopes to solve the problem.
Articles
Climate Justice, Human Rights, and the Case for Reparations
Two authors worked on this piece to discuss the need for reparations for certain populations based on climate issues and human rights violations.
Climate Change is a Matter of Justice – Here’s Why
Learn about the ins and outs of climate change in this article and find out why it’s one of the world’s most important justice issues today.
From Environmental to Climate Justice: Climate Change and the Discourse of Environmental Justice
Climate change is a major issue facing the world, but it’s also a type of environmental justice, which this article talks about in more detail.
Toward Transformative Climate Justice: An Emerging Research Agenda
The authors of this piece look at the past and current research in climate justice to identify popular trends and see the slant that exists in the field.
Climate Justice in a Climate Changed World
In this piece, you’ll see how people living in different parts of the world have different experiences and what it means to live in a world showing the effects of climate change.
Climate Justice and Capabilities: A Framework for Adaptation Policy
Cambridge University Press published this article in one of its journals to talk about the framework that can help people adapt and reduce the effects of climate change.
Critical Climate Justice
Check out this article to see why climate justice is so important today and what groups or organizations must do to continue the work of those who came before.
Climate Justice and Inequality
Google Books lets you read this chapter for free to see the three main reasons why climate change is so important for people today and those in the future.
Climate Justice in Higher Education: A Proposed Paradigm Shift Towards a Transformative Role for Colleges and Universities
In an updated version of this article, you’ll see what colleges can and should do to teach climate change and get students active in combating it.
Fossil Fuel Disinvestment in US Higher Education: Student-Led Organising for Climate Justice
This article tracks the progress of fossil fuel disinvestment (FFD) and looks at how student organizations are leading the way and creating big changes.
Aiming Higher? Implications for Higher Education of Students’ Views on Education for Climate Justice
Read this article to see how the rise in critical environmental disasters led to students speaking out and taking steps to increase climate justice.
School Resources
Teach Climate Change Campaign
Join the campaign to teach climate change in schools and get access to lesson plans and tips on bringing this topic to the students in your school.
Climate Justice and Sustainability for Teachers
Portland Public Schools out of Oregon put together a detailed guide for teachers with resources like field trip ideas and climate justice classroom activities.
Let’s Talk Climate! Bridging Climate Justice Learning and Action Across School, Home, and Community
Climate change matters to everyone today, which is why this site came up with a long list of ways that people of all ages can take action in real life.
Climate Justice Education Starts Here
MIT Open Learning offers a free toolkit for anyone interested in climate justice, which includes a starter guide for students of different ages and many activities for teachers.
Tackling Climate Change Through Environmental Justice Middle School
The NOAA designed this lesson plan with multiple activities and tons of information for middle school teachers who want to help students learn about environmental justice.
The Essential Toolkit for Climate Justice Educators
Grab a copy of this ebook to find essential tools for climate justice teachers like how to discuss tragic events and teach students the skills needed to work in the field.
Teaching About Climate Justice
Find multiple resources for teaching about climate justice on this site, including lesson plans on different topics and articles that are suitable for students.
Our House is On Fire – Time to Teach Climate Justice
Bill Bigelow talks about climate justice in this article and goes over some of the ways teachers and students can help through activism efforts and simple activities.
Environmental Justice Resources for Educators and Students
This huge directory features tons of resources for environmental justice teachers and their students, including videos, lesson plans, and even online maps.
Books
Educator and Activist
Bunyan Bryant Jr. uses his memoir to discuss growing up and going to college as a black man and how the experiences led him to become an activist.
Before the Streetlights Come On
Author Heather McTeer Toney uses her book to show the steps People of Color have taken in recent years to bring attention to climate change and related issues.
Fighting to Breathe
Nicole Fabricant wrote Fighting to Breathe as a way to talk about the challenges facing the youth of color in Baltimore like racism and toxicity.
The Pandemic Divide
Duke University Press published The Pandemic Divide, which looks at how the COVID-19 pandemic increased inequality in America and created a bigger division.
Black Earth Wisdom
In her book, Leah Penniman shares essays written by leading black activists across the country to help readers understand the experiences others have.
Evolution of a Movement
Tracy E. Perkins traces the evolution of the environmental justice movement in California to show what it accomplished and how it changed over four decades.
Environmental Justice and Resiliency in an Age of Uncertainty
Celeste Murphy-Greene uses 11 chapters to tackle environmental justice through in-depth exams of the Flint water crisis and other major disasters.
New IDS Bulletin: Reframing Climate and Environmental Justice
The IDS Bulletin released this issue in 2022 to supply readers with multiple articles on the blind spots and emerging fields within the environmental and climate justice fields.
Podcasts
Living Downstream
From Northern California Public Media, Living Downstream is a podcast dedicated to environmental justice issues, helping listeners learn about trending topics.
Cooler Earth
Cooler Earth is a podcast that brings in leading experts to discuss possible solutions for climate change and the issues relating to climate change.
Climate Justice
Listen to any episode of Climate Justice to hear about popular topics, such as what happens to the environment when wealthy people take over.
Agents of Change
Look through the podcasts available here to get an idea of the climate and environmental experts who participated and what they think.
How to Save a Planet
How to Save a Planet is a fun and unique podcast that discusses how to tackle climate change and the link between climate change and migration.
Let’s Talk Climate Justice, Y’all!
Another fun podcast is this one, which focuses on community organizations and groups in the Southern United States looking for climate change solutions.
Intersectional Environmentalist
This organization offers several podcasts you can download to learn more about its history and topics like grassroots activism and its impact on climate change.
Back to Earth: Queer Currants
In Queer Currants from the Back to Earth podcast, two activists sit down to discuss the top climate justice issues and how they relate to the queer community.