Bryant takes part in national initiative on climate change

“Focus the Nation” aims to educate students about the effects of global warming.

On Thursday, January 31, the Bryant community will join about 1,600 institutions around the country in the national campaign “Focus the Nation,” which aims to raise students’ awareness of the effects of climate change.

Faculty in the Science and Technology Department will take part in the national teach-in. They will show “The Great Warming: The Signs and the Science” or “Everything’s Cool,” two documentaries on global warming, and lead follow-up discussions in their classes. About 550 Bryant students will take part in the program.

Dan McNally, associate professor of science and technology and chair of the department, says he hopes the program can build on the success of an “Inconvenient Truth,” former Vice President Al Gore’s documentary on global warming that earned him a Nobel Prize.

“This initiative focuses on the students,” says McNally. “We believe showing one of these two highly regarded documentaries, along with a subsequent discussion in class, will be very effective and will help us reach the greatest number of students.”

Gaytha Langlois, professor of science and technology, says the program helps to illustrate the far-reaching impact that climate change can have on food production, population density, and the ecosystem.

“I hope to convey to the students that the reality of climate change is no longer a debatable topic but rather a phenomenon deserving serious analysis and commitment,” says Langlois.

Because the early stages of climate change are already being experienced around the world, Bryant must have a role in helping to educate future leaders – our students – about an important issue that could have significant implications moving forward, says Langlois.

“What university program would describe itself as being responsible for educating tomorrow’s decision makers without attempting to make students aware of such a significant and important issue as climate change?” asks Langlois.

Kimberly LaLiberte, adjunct professor of science and technology, says the issue of global warming is one that is often politicized, which can make it difficult for students to relate to.

“The intent of watching the documentary is for my chemistry students to gain a grounded understanding of global warming and its effects on their individual lives,” says LaLiberte.

Members of the Bryant community can do their part to cut energy consumption by turning off lights and all electrical appliances when they are not in use. Just unplugging chargers for your cell phones or iPods, which still draw power when they are not in use, can decrease energy use and save money. Turn down the thermostat when you are not home and weatherize your house to ensure that heat is not escaping.

People should also look at their driving habits. Combining short trips, driving at a reasonable rate of speed, carpooling, or buying a hybrid car can help reduce pollution.

“Many individuals see this issue as a problem for others to solve and do not realize even small changes in consumer-driven consumption of disposables can have an immense impact on the environment,” says LaLiberte.

To learn more, visit Focus the Nation.