Climate Change Archives - The Austin Common

Resilience Roundtable: Histories of Urban Water Management

Amy Stansbury — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000

Today, urban dwellers tend to think about where their water comes from only when it stops flowing, or when it flows too much. This water usually makes it to residential consumers through an extensive and technologically sophisticated infrastructure that remains largely invisible outside times of crisis.

Across much of human history (and in many parts of the world today), by contrast, the question of where to get water for daily needs was much more immediate. This is especially true of places where large numbers of people gathered together in dense settlements, posing challenges for both the supply of fresh water and the disposal of wastewater and excess precipitation.

While the technologies used to gather and distribute water in the past may have been less complex than those now in use, the basic principles are the same: water is pulled downhill by gravity, soaks into the soil, evaporates into the air, and can be retained and directed by barriers and conduits. The investigation of water management in urban contexts in the past can help us to understand the challenges those societies dealt with and the solutions they developed. Not only are these solutions sometimes relevant to modern challenges in water management in densely-settled areas, but they also help us understand the evolution of the systems we now have.

This panel brings together scholars who study human interactions with water resources in urban environments of the past, from the Romans to the Maya to the modern US Southwest. They will explain how their research illuminates past water management practices, and discuss the connection of those practices with social and historical developments in both the Old and the New Worlds.

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Sierra Club Program ONLINE: Carbon Capture

Amy Stansbury — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 01:00:00 +0000

Our monthly Austin Sierra Club meeting will be online via Zoom.

We’ll start off with Announcements on current events… Tonite’s main program is CARBON CAPTURE – Monitoring, Safety, and Geologic Impact of Underground CO2 Injection, with Dr. Katherine Romanak.

Dr. Romanak is an expert in near-surface geochemical monitoring, safety, and environmental impacts of geologic carbon storage. She is currently a Research Professor at the Bureau of Economic Geology, Jackson School of Geosciences, UT Austin. She has developed and implemented monitoring plans for at least six actively-injecting, large-scale CO2 storage projects dating back to 2007, and has pioneered a new environmental monitoring technique which has become the standard approach worldwide.

Dr. Romanak holds a B.S. in Geology from Southern Methodist University, an M.S. in Geology from UT Arlington, and a Ph.D. in Geology from UT Austin. She previously worked as a staff scientist at the Smithsonian Institution.

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Parents’ Climate Community: Holiday Social

Eileen McGinnis — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 21:00:00 +0000

Join our parent-led climate meetup for a family-friendly holiday celebration, and commit to climate action in 2024! We’ll order some shareable appetizers for the table, and you can take advantage of Sour Duck’s happy hour deals. Kids and adults will also have a chance to write down or draw their climate resolutions for the new year.

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Net-Zero Hero: Reza Cristián

Amy Stansbury — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:23:10 +0000

This post is sponsored by the City of Austin Office of Sustainability. (It was originally published on the city’s website on October 19th.) All Austin Common sponsors are screened by The Austin Common team to ensure they’re doing good for their employees, customers, our community, and the planet.

Meet Reza Cristián, founder of SUSTAIN THE MAG, co-founder of the Slow Fashion Festival, and our newest Net-Zero Hero. Through her everyday actions and community organizing, Reza is helping others understand that living a sustainable lifestyle can start small. From the clothes you wear to the ways you engage in community, Reza understands that there is a place for everyone in the sustainability movement — but especially for those whose experiences have been historically left out of the narrative.

We met with Reza at the Slow Fashion Festival and at her home in East Austin to talk about climate and mental health, her online publication SUSTAIN THE MAG, and how growing up in a Mexican-American family shaped her sustainability journey.

What inspired you to take action?

I was inspired to take action through the way I was raised. My parents — often unintentionally and just by default of being frugal and Mexican-American — shared ways for us to save money. They would have us recycle our cans and water bottles or take us to swap meets and thrift stores to purchase clothing items.

I also truly loved animals. When I was in middle school, I was inspired by my mother, who became a vegetarian first after reading and watching docs on animal abuse in the U.S. This led me to also become a vegetarian at age 12. I’ve since turned pescetarian.

I became more inspired to take action when I went to college in NYC. I was a first-gen college student in my family and met so many new friends who showed me the world of sustainability. From there, it was all uphill!

How did you do it?

While attending college in NYC, I was studying journalism, my dream major. It was then that I came up with the idea to start SUSTAIN THE MAG, a sustainable inclusive magazine. We’re currently only online with hopes of having a print version one day.

Before I started SUSTAIN, I saw a lot of magazines and blogs at the time that did not talk enough about sustainability since it wasn’t buzzworthy. The sites that were talking about sustainability didn’t showcase inclusivity and diversity. I wanted to change that and create a community that was the opposite of what high fashion profile magazines were.

That was five years ago. I brought that same community and mindset to Austin when I moved here four years ago. I’ve since hosted many clean-ups, mutual aid fundraisers, community fridge activations, and now co-organized a Slow Fashion Festival right here in Austin.

What’s been most rewarding about getting involved in this way?

Truly, it’s been rewarding seeing how I could use my connections with brands to raise funds for mutual aid. For instance, this past SXSW, I hosted an eco-concert and raised over $1,500 to help buy groceries for the local ATX Free Fridge Project. I enjoy hosting experiences for folks while also raising funds and bringing awareness to issues that many people may not think about in their day-to-day life. All of this can help shift the narrative of what sustainability looks like.

What’s been the toughest part?

The toughest part has been doing all of this while not having enough funds to allow me to work on these projects full-time. It can be challenging to also juggle other priorities. For this reason, I am looking to turn SUSTAIN into a non-profit, as we work strictly as a grassroots organization now.

In recent years, we’ve started to hear more about climate anxiety, especially among younger generations. What are some of the strategies or practices you use to avoid burnout and stay optimistic?

I have general anxiety already, and it’s gotten worse over the years since the pandemic. I have been so proud of my journey as I have asked for help and gone to therapy. I also try to work out as little or as much as I need to and gain movement in my body so I am not chronically online. I try to find the time to read or meditate more often.

Since moving to Texas, I have experienced more climate anxiety from seeing the dramatic weather events here — from the winter storms to extreme heatwaves. But again, I try to do my best to ease my anxiety as much as I can, and also have learned to live through the anxious thoughts and not let them overwhelm me.

Our interview will come out during Latine Heritage Month. Through all of your platforms, you’ve been vocal about the need to lift BIPOC voices in the climate space. Have you seen shifts around this since you started SUSTAIN THE MAG, and what do you hope the future of climate storytelling will look like?

With it being Latine Heritage Month and with myself being half Mexican- and Iranian-American, I have felt it necessary to push BIPOC voices in sustainability in the media. I also do this work through the Slow Fashion Festival by being conscious of who is participating as panelists, designers, models, etc. I had the idea for SUSTAIN THE MAG in 2017 and launched in 2018. As I’ve mentioned previously, inclusivity and diversity weren’t at the forefront of media or the environmental space until just recently, really in the last couple of years. I am glad it’s changing, but of course, it took a while to get here when, in fact, it has been BIPOC — specifically Black and Indigenous folks — who have been teaching and living sustainability for centuries.

I hope the future of climate storytelling continues to push more everyday change makers in this space — not just influencers with large platforms, but the BIPOC & Queer folks on the ground in their own communities actively doing the work without an agenda.

Is there a book, documentary, or other piece of media you would recommend for folks wanting to learn more about these topics?

This is a shameless plug, but I would like to plug SUSTAIN THE MAG. We have so many great writers from all around the world who have such incredible insights to share. We dive into multiple, intersectional sustainability topics in each edition.

What advice do you have for others?

I would tell people to not feel defeated by all that is going on and to do as much as they can. And if they have the privilege and money to do so, try to put in more work to provide for their neighbors, communities, etc. Sustainability isn’t just about small personal lifestyle choices but also about sharing resources and giving back to our communities as well.

The Slow Fashion Festival takes place every spring and fall. Learn more at slowfashionfestival.com.

To learn more about Austin’s net-zero goal and the actions you can take to support a greener community, view the Austin Climate Equity Plan.

Share your Net-Zero contributions with us on Twitter or Facebook, and use #NetZeroHero. If you know a Net-Zero Hero (or heroes!) who should be recognized for their efforts, send your nomination to sustainability@austintexas.gov.

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Extreme Weather Events: Is Austin Prepared?

Amy Stansbury — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:30:00 +0000

Join LWV-AA and Citizens’ Climate Lobby for a moderated panel discussion on Austin and Travis County preparations for extreme weather events.

Speakers:

Carrie Stewart, Austin Fire Department Wildfire Prevention
Selena Xie, Emergency Medical Services Association
Sara Henry, Homeland Security and Emergency Services
Lisa Martin, Austin Energy
Andy Brown, Travis County Judge
Carol Eckelkamp, LWV-AA, Moderator

Advanced registration is requested.

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Parents’ Climate Community: November Meetup

Eileen McGinnis — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Join us on the second Saturday of each month for a family-friendly gathering and informal climate conversation. Meet fellow caregivers concerned about climate change and leave with a quick, specific climate action you can take.

This month, we’ll talk about strategies for reducing consumption and waste during the holiday season.

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BRAVE Communities Connection – Driving Change: Transportation, Climate, and Your Health

BRAVE_Communities — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Driving Change: Transportation, Climate, and Your Health

According to Copernicus Climate Change Service, the global average temperature for Summer 2023 was 62.2F (16.8C), which is 2.07F (1.15C) above the 1990-2020 average. Although we’re experiencing pleasant weather now (in Austin), we cannot ignore the extreme weather patterns that we continue to experience in the summers and winters, and around this world.

Climate change is one of the most significant challenges of our time, and the transportation sector plays a pivotal role in this crisis. Come join us as we listen and learn from local subject matter experts on the crucial role of transportation in climate change, and explore our individual and collective responsibilities in reducing carbon emissions across the private and public sectors.

Gain insights into the impact of transportation on climate change.
Discover innovative solutions and strategies for sustainable transportation.
Understand the responsibilities of individuals and organizations in reducing carbon emissions.
Engage in meaningful discussions with subject matter experts.
Connect with like-minded intergenerational community members to address climate change.

Scheduled Panelists:
Pavielle Babi-Pirouz, Austin Yellow Bike
Robert Borowski, Sustainability Officer, CapMetro
Olivia Cardona Herrera, Lead Operations Specialist, Austin Energy

Moderator – Hailey Reese, 16 y.o BRAVE Young Leader

Anticipated agenda:
12:00pm: Doors open/Sign-in and networking
12:15~12:40pm Native American Dance Demo
12:45~2:00pm: Panel Discussion
2:00~2:30pm: Networking w Halloween costume swap*

*Our AY23/24 BRAVE Young Leaders, cohort of changemakers ages 14-24 years old, have conceptualized ongoing “clothes swaps” to address fast fashion and reduce landfill waste while adding savings to your wallets. In the holiday spirit, we invite you to bring your 2023 (or older) Halloween costumes and accessories that may be reused and recycled to other community members for next Halloween!

Free with RSVP. Refreshments provided.

Watch Live streaming of the event on BRAVE Communities’ Facebook page

Thank you to Austin Yellow Bike for sharing your space; CDC Foundation for supporting this panel discussion and City of Austin’s Cultural Arts Division for supporting the dance demo for this FREE family-friendly community-building event.

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Before, During & After the Flood: Multiple Perspectives on Planning, Response, and Recovery

Amy Stansbury — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Floods usually happen suddenly. The sky rips open, the rivers and streams quickly fill, followed by the fields and streets. Before long it can become a life-threatening emergency with people trapped in their homes or cars. However, there is a long ‘before’ and a long ‘after’ when it comes to flooding. The complex way in which water moves and fills up the land is shaped both by geologic processes and the political economy of building housing and infrastructure. Decisions made decades ago affect the landscape of hazard and risk in the present and near future.

There is a long ‘after’ too, as flooded communities take months and years to recover physically, financially, and emotionally. With rain events predicted to be more intense it is imperative to develop networks of collaboration between scientists, planners, community advocates, first responders, and neighbors to better understand and limit risk, more effectively respond during times of crisis, and recover from events in ways that are just and equitable.

Join us for this panel discussion that brings these different perspectives together in hopes of diminishing the impacts of some of our most deadly and costly climate-related hazards.

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ClimateCon: Building a Sustainable Austin

Amy Stansbury — Sun, 22 Oct 2023 19:00:00 +0000

Join us at ClimateCon – where Austin’s most passionate climate activists, innovators, and organizations unite! This transformative gathering seeks to cultivate collaboration, spark fresh dialogue, and drive forward the mission of a more sustainable Austin.

Who Should Attend?

Whether you’re a seasoned environmentalist, a budding eco-warrior, or someone curious about the local climate movement, this event is for you. Get the unique opportunity to engage directly with major environmental groups, dive deep into pressing climate issues, meet new friends, and discover how you can make an impact right here in Austin.

Featured Groups:

– Sierra Club: Known for its grassroots approach, Sierra Club champions solutions that move us toward a clean energy future.
– AURA: Advocating for abundant and affordable housing and transportation options for all Austinites.
– Rethink-35: An initiative focused on reshaping urban infrastructure in sustainable and community-friendly ways.
– Inside Climate News: A Pulitzer Prize-winning non-profit news organization dedicated to covering climate change, energy, and the environment.
– Public Citizen: A champion of public interest, they work to ensure government accountability and fight for a healthier environment.
… and many more to be announced!

Activities Include:

– Yoga Sessions: Find your center and reconnect with nature through our meditative yoga breaks. Suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

– Art Builds: Showcase your creativity and passion for the planet by participating in collaborative art projects. Express yourself and be a part of something bigger.

– Games: Dive into fun and educational games that emphasize the importance of sustainability and climate awareness.

– Letter Writing to Elected Officials: Lend your voice to the cause by penning heartfelt letters to your representatives, urging them to prioritize our planet and its future.

Join us for a day of learning, collaboration, and celebration of our planet. Together, we’ll pave the way for a more sustainable Austin. Book your spot now!

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Parents’ Climate Community: October Meetup

Eileen McGinnis — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 15:00:00 +0000

This month, we will also have supplies on hand for kids to make creative reuse Halloween decorations AND create signs for the Nov. 5th freeway rally.

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