Climate change is inherently unequal, disproportionately affecting communities that have contributed the least to global emissions. Climate change also exacerbates existing inequities created by historical systemic forces of exclusion, while also creating new inequities and challenges. Mitigation and adaptation policies must address these dynamics in equitable, inclusive ways to be successful.

How can we drive the promotion of equitable policies and practices both in and through research? The Population Council’s Population, Environmental Risks, and the Climate Crisis (PERCC) Initiative invites PAA 2024 participants to join a panel discussion to discuss the pursuit of justice in the face of climate and environmental changes. In this conversation, we will engage leading researchers working to unpack the intersectional impacts of the climate crisis in a discussion touching on designing policy relevant climate justice research questions, developing equitable research practices to engage impacted communities, and fostering relationships with decision-makers to influence equitable programs and policies.

Our panelists bring expertise from global demographic research analyses of climate and population dynamics (Raya Muttarak), influencing climate and environmental policy through the UNFCCC and coordinated regional levels across borders (Deepshikha Sharma), understanding the environmental justice implications of gentrification (Marisol Becerra), and climate adaptation and sexual and reproductive health program integrations and opportunities (Samuel Sellers).

The panel will take place during PAA 2024 in the Harrison Room at the Hyatt Regency in Columbus, OH. A cocktail reception will follow the panel discussion.