Sherburne. Photo courtesy Friends of Rogers
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average temperature of the Earth has risen by 1.5 degrees over the past 100 years, and is projected to rise another 0.5 to 8.6 degrees over the next century.
While this may seem like a relatively small change, even slight fluctuations in Earth’s average temperature can result in drastic changes in weather and climate.
“Climate change, which is defined as a change in global climate patterns, most recently attributed to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide from human activities, has become a polarizing topic,” explains John Pumilio, Friends of Rogers Board Member and Director of Sustainability at Colgate University. “The divide on the issue of climate change has undermined the science and led to uncertainty among many people who are not sure what to believe.”
Fortunately, Friends of Rogers is hosting a program designed to explore climate basics at 6:45 p.m. Nov. 9. Join Pumilio and Colgate University assistant professor of environmental studies Andy Pattison, for a facilitated discussion on climate change basics. The discussion will include an overview of climate science, impacts, policies, and actions we can take as communities and individuals. This will be an interactive session, so visitors are encouraged to come prepared to participate.
In addition to Colgate University, Pumilio – a Central New York native – has worked for the National
Park Service, the National Audubon Society and Tauck World Discovery. In his current role, Pumilio has been instrumental in implementing numerous sustainability programs that have reduced Colgate University’s ecological and carbon footprints.
This unique program is made possible thanks to the generosity of Hamilton Friends Meeting (Quakers).
“We are extremely grateful for this partnership,” said Simon Solomon, FOR executive director. “Educating the public on climate basics is yet another way we seek to fulfill our mission.”
The program will be held at the Hamilton Public Library. While there is no charge, Friends of Rogers encourages contributions to support future operations. Rogers Center is operated by Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center, Inc., a nonprofit organization that offers educational programs for people of all ages. Seasonal hours are from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.