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Mini Case Scenarios
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The Vertical Forest is an innovative idea created by Italian architect Stefano Boeri to combat climate change. The prototype was created in 2017 in Milan, Italy, housing 21 thousand plants and a true home to 20 species of birds. Carlo Ratti Associates and Bjarke Ingels Group, the designers of this building, also blended the modern-day skyscraper with nature. Large skyscrapers with rainforest plaza’s, small parks, activity pockets, and botanical plants flourishing in and on the building, exterior is so unique but also has a purpose...
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Permafrost are layers of soil that remain frozen for all twelve months of the year and is primarily found in the Earth’s arctic regions. Permafrost plays a significant role in the global carbon cycle, acting as a carbon reservoir due to the amount of carbon and methane that is captured by the frozen soil. Due to the long-lasting freeze, large amounts of carbon and methane do not efficiently cycle into the atmosphere, instead it continuously accumulates...
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Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable source of power that holds immense potential in addressing the global energy challenge and mitigating climate change. It harnesses the sun's abundant and clean energy to generate electricity, offering numerous environmental, economic, and social benefits. Solar energy provides significant environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Unlike fossil fuels, solar power does not produce harmful pollutants or carbon dioxide during electricity generation, thus helping to combat climate change and improve air quality. According to a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could contribute to a 24% reduction in global electricity-related carbon emissions by 2050...
Discussion Topics
- How might we utilize institutions to help support and ensure we reach Kingston's Climate Action Plan 2030?
- Engage in a discussion about the science of climate change and its various impacts on the environment, society, and the economy.
- Discuss the role of human activities in driving climate change, the consequences of rising global temperatures, and the urgency of taking action.
- Discuss the importance of international cooperation and climate policies in addressing climate change.
- Discuss the significance of the Paris Agreement as a milestone in international climate cooperation. Explore the key elements of the agreement, including nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and the long-term temperature goal. Is it advancing climate action and its effectiveness in addressing the climate crisis?
- Explore different strategies and measures for mitigating climate change. Discuss renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency improvements, sustainable transportation, and the role of carbon pricing mechanisms. Debate the advantages and challenges of each strategy and explore potential synergies among them.
- Discuss the need for adaptation and resilience-building efforts to address the impacts of climate change. Explore topics such as climate-resilient infrastructure, ecosystem-based adaptation, and community-level adaptation strategies.
- Explore the need to address social and economic inequalities while transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
- Discuss the role of marginalized communities, indigenous peoples, and vulnerable populations in climate action and the importance of ensuring their inclusion and empowerment.
- Discuss the role of individuals, communities, and organizations in taking climate action. Explore topics such as sustainable lifestyle choices, consumer activism, grassroots movements, and corporate social responsibility. Discuss the potential for collective action and its impact on driving systemic change.
Assessment Ideas
- Position Paper: Express your stance on integrating climate change education into school curricula and community programs, underscoring the importance of raising awareness and building a generation that values sustainability.
- Research Paper: Discuss the significance of technology transfer from developed to developing nations in achieving climate mitigation goals, focusing on the equitable sharing of clean technologies and knowledge.
- Case Study Analysis: Provide students with a case study that highlights a specific climate action initiative or success story. Ask them to critically analyze the case study, evaluate its outcomes, and assess its relevance to addressing climate change.
- Policy Brief: Conduct an analysis of a climate policy or agreement at the international, national, or local level. Critically evaluate the policy's effectiveness, identify gaps or challenges, and propose recommendations for enhancing its impact.
- Group Presentation: Develop a proposal for transitioning to sustainable energy sources in a specific context. Analyze the current energy system, evaluate the feasibility of renewable energy adoption, and propose strategies for achieving a sustainable energy transition. Present your proposal, including financial analysis, stakeholder engagement strategies, and potential socio-economic benefits.
- Data Analysis and Recommendations: Conduct a carbon footprint analysis for a specific sector, organization, or individual. Assess the greenhouse gas emissions associated with various activities and propose strategies for reducing the carbon footprint. Present your analysis, including recommendations for behavior change, technological interventions, and policy measures.
- Communications Strategy: Develop a climate communication campaign aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing action on climate change. They should identify target audiences, develop key messages and communication materials, and outline strategies for campaign implementation.
Additional Resources
Faculty Subject Matter Experts
You may wish to contact one of the following departments who may have subject matter experts in this area:
Environmental Studies ()
Experiential Learning Contact
Christina Dinsmore (pronouns: she/her)
Associate Director, Experiential Learning & Programming
asc.el@queensu.ca
- Climate Adaptation Platform. Vertical Forest for Future Cities. 2021 [cited 2023; Available from: https://climateadaptationplatform.com/vertical-forest-for-future-cities/.
- Mogg, T. This high-tech skyscraper will be covered in vegetation. 2018 [cited 2023; Available from: https://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech/green-tower-singapore/.
- Bano, P. and S. Dervishi, The impact of vertical vegetation on thermal performance of high-rise office building facades in Mediterranean climate. Energy and Buildings, 2021. 236: p. 110761.