Redesigning Our Future

A growing number of teens and young adults are experiencing mental health issues related to the impacts of climate change. They suffer from a condition called “eco-anxiety.” How can the older generation help?

Sustainability leader Heather White notes that Generation Z (those born after 1997) face the “cascading issues” of economic recession, a global pandemic, systemic racism, and climate change. “That means the future they are inheriting is uncertain and scary,” she says.

To register and receive the Zoom link for this very informative discussion and q&a, go to
https://conta.cc/2Ntx8Ts

Alien invasive species are considered one of the top threats to biodiversity on the planet. Lead by Dr. Jay Bolin, participants in this focus group were able to observe the value of organismal biodiversity, from ecosystem services to the intrinsic value provided by diverse communities of plants and animals.

They also learned about the presence of invasive species and how they make their way to new habitats and the negative impacts invasive species may have on native biodiversity. However, there are some notable positive impacts that invasive species contribute to ecosystems. Students were able to work in the 189- acre preserve and cultivate invasive species that most of us can find, even in our back yards! They also had a hand at cooking with Kudzu, a very popular invasive plant to make some delicious snacks!