Brown and Green
The Office of Sustainability and Resiliency Newsletter
AVP's Message
This semester, I write to share with you some organizational changes in the Office of Sustainability and Resiliency. Our office has been restructured to reflect three areas of focus: Energy, Resiliency, and Programs & Data. While these areas of focus most certainly overlap in many ways, this framework will provide clarity on our work as well as roles and responsibilities, in support of our strategic plan and campus vision.
· Energy: Led by Dave Larson, Senior Energy Engineer. Dave will continue to lead the charge in efficient energy practices across all areas of campus.
· Resiliency: Led by Seth Owusu, Assistant Director of Resiliency and Adaptation. This area will be responsible for the development of the University’s Climate Resiliency Plan, collaborating with external partners to identify opportunities for partnerships, providing support to Planning Design & Construction in project design and development regarding resiliency, and collaborating with internal partners to identify and implement resiliency efforts across campus.
· Programs & Data: Led by Derek Wietsma, Assistant Director of Programs and Data. The focus for this area is development, implementation and/or support of the campus sustainability plan(s) and campus as a Living Lab. A key component of this area is to ensure associated data is robust, accurate and communicated appropriately across campus and publicly.
This restructuring is another step to enhance efficiency, streamline processes and foster a more collaborative and agile work environment. Please join us in welcoming in this new framework that will position the Office Sustainability and Resiliency for long-term success of embedding sustainability and resiliency into Brown University’s mission and operations.
- Jessica Berry, AVP, Office of Sustainability and Resiliency
NEWS@BROWN
RI's Dry Bridge Solar Field is Operational
This 50-megawatt (DC) solar facility located in North Kingstown, R.I. will offset the majority of campus electricity.
Dining's Reusable Container Initiative
On January 22, 2024, Brown Dining Services (BDS) launched its reusable container program in partnership with ReusePass. This program, piloted in the spring and fall of 2023, is now mandatory at all residential dining halls in an ongoing effort to reduce campus waste. Students are able to sign up and receive a unique QR code that allows them to check out containers much like you would a library book. When a student returns the containers to be washed, they are scanned back into the system, ready to be used again.
Speaking on behalf of BDS, Director of Wellness and Nutrition, Michelle Blais, articulated the institution's overarching objectives in the realm of sustainability. While the focus presently lies on residential dining halls, Blais expressed intentions to expand the program's reach to encompass additional retail locations across campus, including popular spots like the Blue Room and Josiah's. However, she emphasized that such expansion endeavors necessitate meticulous planning and infrastructure upgrades to these areas before the service can be fully operationalized.
Moreover, Blais underscored BDS's unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, highlighting an ongoing quest to refine existing programs and explore novel sustainability initiatives within the realm of food service across the university campus. Through collaborative efforts and a steadfast dedication to environmental stewardship, Brown Dining Services endeavors to foster a culture of sustainability while championing practical solutions for a greener future.
EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
Clean Break 2024
Clean Break, an initiative led by the Brown University Office of Sustainability and Resiliency, aims to mitigate waste and promote community engagement during student move-out at the end of the academic year. This program redirects valuable items that would typically end up in landfills to benefit the Providence community. Throughout the collection period, which spans from May 2nd to May 15th, Clean Break welcomes donations of various items from students, including clothing, books, bedding, small appliances, small furniture, toiletries, and more. Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of Clean Break, and the program is actively seeking individuals willing to contribute their time and efforts to support this sustainable initiative. By participating in Clean Break, students not only reduce waste but also actively contribute to the well-being of the local community, embodying the spirit of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
IBES Celebrates 10 Years of Environmental Excellence
Brown University's Institute at Brown for Environment & Society (IBES) is gearing up for an extraordinary milestone – its 10th-anniversary celebration. Established with a mission to foster environmental scholarship and drive solutions for a sustainable world, IBES has been a beacon of excellence in the field for the past decade. As we approach this significant anniversary on May 24, 2024, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., the IBES community is preparing to come together under the South Walkway Tent for an afternoon of reflection, camaraderie, and envisioning the future.
Throughout its tenure, IBES has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research, innovative initiatives, and impactful collaborations. From examining the complexities of climate change to exploring biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, IBES has been dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Director Kim Cobb will deliver remarks, offering insights into the journey of IBES and its enduring impact. Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the institute's origins, evolution, and ongoing contributions to environmental scholarship at Brown University and beyond. The event will serve as a platform for reflection on past achievements and a catalyst for charting the course ahead, as IBES continues to strive for excellence in research, education, and outreach.
BEYOND BROWN
R.I. News:
R.I.'s Affordable Solar Pathways Program
Rhode Island has launched the Affordable Solar Pathways Program (ASAP), a novel solar energy initiative aimed at benefiting low-income residents by reducing their electricity costs. Governor Dan McKee introduced the program, utilizing government funds to lower the leasing costs of rooftop solar panels for qualifying households. PosiGen, the partnering solar company, will provide enhanced benefits for households with incomes up to 80% of the state median, situated in environmental justice areas. The initiative, believed to be the first of its kind in the nation, leverages a federal tax credit created in 2021 to expand renewable energy in lower-income neighborhoods. The program, administered by Rhode Island Commerce and the state Office of Energy Resources, is expected to fund up to 300 solar installations, potentially paving the way for future expansion with additional funding.
U.S. News:
Excessive Heat and Air Pollution are Putting Farmworkers' Lives at Risk
In a recent article, the precarious lives of farmworkers in California's Central Valley are brought into sharp focus. Against the backdrop of scorching temperatures and chronic air pollution, these essential workers face alarming risks to their health and safety on a daily basis. The article highlights the tragic case of William Salas Jiminez, whose sudden death while working in an almond orchard serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by extreme heat and inadequate protections for agricultural laborers.
Despite California's purportedly stringent heat exposure standards, which mandate provisions like shade, water, and rest breaks, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. The report reveals a systemic failure to enforce these regulations, leaving farmworkers vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and fatalities. Moreover, the intersection of high temperatures with unhealthy air quality exacerbates the risks, particularly in regions like the San Joaquin Valley, which grapples with the nation's worst PM2.5 pollution.
The investigation underscores the need for urgent action to safeguard the well-being of farmworkers. Calls for federal heat regulations resonate, as advocates emphasize the fundamental rights of these workers to toil in safe conditions. The article further exposes the inadequacies of enforcement agencies like Cal/OSHA, which are hampered by understaffing and lenient penalties for violators. As the public becomes increasingly aware of the injustices faced by farmworkers, pressure mounts on policymakers and industry stakeholders to enact meaningful reforms and ensure that no more lives are needlessly lost in the fields.
World News:
Arctic Study: Small Unmapped Lakes Emit Less Methane than Believed
A recent study conducted at Brown University has challenged longstanding assumptions about methane emissions from Arctic lakes and wetlands, utilizing advanced satellite and airborne imagery from NASA. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is of particular concern due to its significant contribution to global warming. Led by Ethan D. Kyzivat, the research focused on the Arctic region, which is experiencing rapid warming, making it crucial to accurately assess methane emissions. The study's findings suggest that previous estimates regarding the role of small, unmapped lakes in methane emissions were greatly exaggerated. Contrary to earlier beliefs that these lakes contributed approximately 40% of the region's methane emissions, the study revealed their contribution to be only around 3%.
The research, published in Geophysical Research Letters, sheds light on the importance of high-resolution data in understanding methane dynamics in the Arctic landscape. By harnessing unprecedented levels of detail in satellite and airborne imagery, the study was able to provide a more accurate assessment of methane emissions from small lakes. This advancement is significant, considering the challenges posed by the sheer size and diverse natural formations of the Arctic, which had hindered previous mapping efforts.
Furthermore, the study's findings have implications beyond the Arctic region, as they offer insights into reconciling discrepancies between different methane modeling methodologies. Traditionally, there have been two main approaches to estimating methane emissions: "bottom-up" estimates, based on Earth mapping, and "top-down" estimates, derived from atmospheric measurements. The Brown University study suggests that the high-resolution imagery can bridge the gap between these two methods, leading to more unified and accurate estimates of methane emissions. As a result, the researchers believe their approach could be extended globally, offering a more comprehensive understanding of methane emissions worldwide and informing efforts to mitigate climate change.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Chantell Dunbar-Jones reminisces about the days when oil wells seemed to populate every corner of her hometown, Lewisville, Arkansas, situated above the Smackover Oil Formation. For years, the oil industry was the backbone of the community's economy, with nearly everyone employed in this sector. However, as the industry shifted towards Texas in the late 1990s and wells began to close, Lewisville faced an exodus of residents and businesses in search of better opportunities elsewhere. Nevertheless, hope emerged in late 2027 with ExxonMobil's announcement of its plan to produce lithium in the region, potentially revitalizing the area's fortunes. Alongside other companies, ExxonMobil aims to tap into the Smackover formation, spanning three states and capable of supplying 15 percent of the world's lithium. This prospect has left Lewisville cautiously optimistic, with expectations of job creation and economic rejuvenation. Despite assurances from ExxonMobil about the safety and environmental impact of their lithium extraction methods, there remains skepticism among some residents, including Dunbar-Jones, about the potential social and environmental consequences. The rush for critical minerals, driven by the global transition towards renewable energy, has prompted fossil fuel companies like Ramaco Resources to explore new avenues for profit, such as tapping into rare-earth metals deposits. However, concerns persist regarding water consumption, pollution, and equitable distribution of economic benefits within mining communities. While federal initiatives, such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the Department of Energy's funding for critical minerals exploration, aim to bolster domestic production, questions linger about the efficacy of current regulations in safeguarding communities and the environment. As discussions surrounding mining reform and community involvement intensify, the challenge remains to strike a balance between meeting the nation's demand for critical minerals and addressing the social and environmental impacts of extraction.
COURSE SPOTLIGHT
At Brown University, the ENVS0110 course has become a beacon of engaged scholarship, offering students a transformative educational experience. Led by Dawn King, the course integrates lectures, seminars, and hands-on lab sessions, empowering students to address pressing environmental issues through community-based research. Partnering with local organizations like Climate Action Rhode Island and the George Wiley Center, students undertake projects ranging from identifying methane leaks to advocating for utility shut off moratoriums, yielding tangible outcomes that benefit both communities and the environment. Through collaborative endeavors and real-world applications, ENVS0110 equips students with the skills and knowledge to effect positive change, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and social justice.
With a focus on bridging theory and practice, ENVS0110 cultivates a new generation of environmental leaders who are committed to making a difference in the world. By providing students with opportunities to engage directly with community partners and tackle complex challenges, the course instills a sense of agency and purpose. As students like Carl-Axel Lagercrantz and Callie Durso-Finley reflect on their experiences, they emphasize the significance of contributing to meaningful projects that have tangible impacts beyond the classroom. As ENVS0110 continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the power of engaged scholarship in fostering sustainable solutions and promoting social equity in our communities.
LOCAL VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
Calise and Sons Bakery
For over a century, Calise & Sons Bakery has been synonymous with exceptional quality and freshness in the baking industry. With a legacy spanning more than 115 years, the Calise family has dedicated themselves to crafting the finest bread and rolls, establishing their bakery as a cornerstone of excellence in the Northeast, Tri-state area, and Mid-Atlantic region. Renowned for their commitment to quality, freshness, and food safety, Calise & Sons Bakery has garnered a loyal following of customers who trust in the superior taste and reliability of their products. As a local partner for dining services at Brown University, Calise & Sons Bakery provides the university's culinary team with fresh Italian bread and rolls from their Lincoln, Rhode Island facility, ensuring that students and staff alike can enjoy the authentic taste and quality that define Calise's artisanal offerings.
Sustainability Seed Grant
Unveiling Providence's Environmental Footprint
In a bold endeavor supported by a 2023 Seed Grant from Brown University's Office of Sustainability and Resiliency, a dedicated team of researchers, including Meredith Hastings, Professor of Physical Sciences and Environment and Society & Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences, embarks on a transformative mission to quantify carbon dioxide and methane concentrations in Providence, RI. Armed with cutting-edge measurement systems and a commitment to community engagement, this initiative holds promise for illuminating crucial aspects of greenhouse gas emissions within the city.
Through a multifaceted approach, the project aims to calibrate low-cost sensors deployed across Providence, conduct targeted studies of methane leaks, and analyze comprehensive data sets. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering collaboration with local stakeholders, government agencies, and grassroots organizations, the research team seeks to empower communities and drive positive change.
As this groundbreaking research unfolds, it not only advances our understanding of Providence's environmental footprint but also underscores Brown University's steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. With each step forward, the project brings us closer to a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for Providence and beyond.
SUSTAINABILITY TIPS
Plant Native Plants!:
Foster biodiversity and support local ecosystems by planting native species in your garden or green spaces. Native plants are well-adapted to the local climate, soil, and wildlife, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pesticides to thrive. By landscaping with native flora, you can attract pollinators, provide habitat for wildlife, and create resilient, sustainable landscapes that enhance the beauty and ecological health of your surroundings.
Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products:
Transition to environmentally friendly cleaning products to create a healthier home and reduce your ecological footprint. Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can harm human health and pollute the air and waterways. Opt for plant-based, biodegradable cleaners or make your own using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. By choosing non-toxic alternatives, you can maintain a clean and safe living environment while protecting the planet for future generations.
Recycle:
Proper recycling ensures that materials like paper, plastic, glass, and metal can be transformed into new products, conserving valuable resources and reducing the need for raw materials extraction. By familiarizing yourself with local recycling guidelines and making a conscious effort to separate recyclables from trash, you can play a significant role in preserving the planet for future generations.
Minimize Lawn Care Impacts:
Adopt eco-friendly lawn care practices to maintain a lush, green landscape while minimizing environmental harm. Consider alternatives to chemical pesticides and fertilizers, such as organic or natural alternatives, to protect soil health and reduce water pollution. Additionally, mowing less frequently, leaving grass clippings as natural mulch, and embracing drought-tolerant grass varieties can help conserve water and promote a greener, more sustainable lawn.
Donate What You Don't Need:
Embrace sustainability by decluttering your space and giving new life to items you no longer use. By donating clothes, furniture, and household items to local charities or thrift stores, you not only reduce waste but also contribute to the circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled, lessening the strain on the environment and supporting those in need within your community.
Celebrate Earth Day!:
Celebrate the beauty of nature and demonstrate support for environmental protection during Earth Week! Earth Day, observed annually on April 22nd, serves as a global reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard the planet for current and future generations. This year, the theme "Planet vs Plastics" underscores the urgent need to address the growing plastic pollution crisis threatening ecosystems worldwide. Join us in raising awareness, taking action, and inspiring positive change as we come together to protect our precious planet.
OSR Suggests
Drilled is a true-crime podcast that delves into the murky world of climate change obstructionism. Hosted by the renowned investigative journalist Amy Westervelt and her team of climate reporters, the podcast peels back the layers of corporate deception and government inaction surrounding the climate crisis. Initially conceived as a limited series focusing on climate liability cases sparked by ExxonKnew revelations, Drilled has since evolved into a dynamic investigative reporting project. By dissecting the complex forces hindering meaningful climate action, Drilled sheds light on the urgent need for accountability and systemic change. With a compelling narrative style and meticulous attention to detail, Drilled captivates audiences while challenging listeners to confront the harsh realities of our planet's uncertain future.
