Everything the environmental science and sustainability department does is intentional, with an eye toward contributing to society. And it’s only natural that that would include the local area. There is much opportunity to support Meadville residents in wrangling the challenges of climate change. In particular, those most vulnerable in lower income areas of the community.
At Allegheny College, environmental science isn’t a theory or something in a textbook. It is a series of problems to be studied, with actionable solutions. In this way, Matthew Bethurem’s students’ work in Meadville delivered. Students conducted a climate vulnerability assessment to illustrate the need for certain infrastructure change to relieve some of the challenges faced in the lowest lying areas of town.
Bethreum notes that there are myriad different impacts associated with the planet being hotter over time and location matters. Lower income residents tend to live in the area’s floodplain, rendering them more vulnerable to heat, flooding, property damage and health issues caused by the climate. This region is also one of the fastest warming places in the lower 48 states. We know that going forward, there will be more days that are above 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the summertime. Meadville residents historically don’t have air conditioning, but will need it going forward, which can be a cost issue for some households. Energy efficiency and educating local landlords to update weatherization materials was part of the students’ work.
A key tool in the climate vulnerability assessment was through Geographic Information System (GIS) work. This created useful maps that evolved into the specifics of a Climate Action Plan for Meadville. The understanding of this tool and the ability to present real solutions to the City Council on a multi-year basis is a powerful opportunity for students to learn the practical ways to face climate change.
