one person holds a bullfrog as another looks on while standing in a pond

one person holds a bull frog while another looks on wearing waders in a pond

We are at a pivotal moment in history.

Our planet is at a crossroads. The time to fix the systems causing the climate and biodiversity crises as well as institutionalized inequities is now. Between the capacity to conduct cutting-edge research, the responsibility to prepare tomorrow's professionals and leaders, and the role as a neutral convening agent, Universities have a unique role to play in developing solutions to today’s most pressing global challenges. The research being done at Penn can and must be part of the solution.

Learn More About the Initiative

September 18, 2024

How is the world working to save biodiversity

Please join the Environmental Innovations Initiative and the Center for Latin American and Latinx Studies for a panel on how global biodiversity goals translate into local actions, coinciding with COP16 in Cali, Colombia. Experts will discuss the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's impact on Colombia, Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia.

Learn more and register

Events & News

young person using a water bottle to refresh under the heat

As the world warms, how are young people feeling?

Environmental Innovations Initiative

Penn students walking through Norris Square Neighborhood Project’s community garden.

How food moves around cities

Penn Today

A climate expert’s return to Penn

Penn Today

A sign in a stairwell pointing the way to a cooling center.

As temperatures break records, many are unaware of symptoms of heat-related illnesses

Penn Today

Sep

The Enduring Legacy of Lead Poisoning

Philadelphia Regional Center for Children's Environmental Health

Catalyzing Research

The Environmental Innovations Initiative seeks to facilitate innovative research that maximizes Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary strengths, within and between schools, centers, graduate groups, and departments.

Climate Action

Global Climate Impacts, Risks and Vulnerabilities

Incorporating scientific insights into decision-making is crucial for addressing the impacts of climate change.

Societal Resilience

Stewardship of Nature

Catalyzing Nature-Based Solutions to Address Urban Water Challenges in Philadelphia Communities

Access to clean water and the protection of freshwater ecosystems in cities like Philadelphia, within the Northeast Mega Region, face threats from climate change.

Societal Resilience

How Private Actors Build Societal Resilience to Environmental Crises

Individuals facing socioeconomic disadvantages and structural inequalities are disproportionately affected by environmental crises, including those stemming from climate change.

Election Ballot Photo AdobeStock 230157974

Climate Action

Societal Resilience

Public Deliberation on Climate Transitions and Well-Being

Society is currently engaged in major transitions prompted by the climate emergency and other environmental crises. These green transitions pose a formidable suite of challenges.

Climate Action

Stewardship of Nature

One Health@Penn

A growing recognition of the intimate connection between humans, animals, and the environment has underscored that an interdisciplinary, multisectoral strategy is crucial to address complex health challenges.

Children at a Project Based Learning Class of Global Climate Justice

Climate Action

Project-Based Learning for Global Climate Justice

K-12 schools and higher education institutions can play a pivotal role in this response by creating opportunities for students to have a meaningful impact on their communities now while also inspiring their commitment to this work in the future

Societal Resilience

Stewardship of Nature

Penn Regenerative Ag Alliance

Regenerative Agricultural describes holistic farming and grazing practices aimed at improving soil health via rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring degraded soil biodiversity.

Learn More About Research

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Explore Environment at Penn

Each of Penn’s 12 Schools offer teaching, research, and opportunities on a broad range of topics related to climate, nature, and society. Discover the people, programs, and opportunities at the University. Learn more about courses and degrees, connect with expert faculty, and world-class centers and institutes across campus.