BRAC University Hosts Lecture on Climate Action with Dr. Eban Goodstein
BRAC University recently welcomed Dr. Eban Goodstein, a leading advocate for social and environmental sustainability, for an insightful lecture on climate action. Dr. Goodstein, who has years of experience teaching and collaborating with BRAC University through the Open Society University Network (OSUN), expressed his appreciation for the university’s new campus and its role in fostering student learning and engagement.The event was launched with a warm welcoming speech from Dr. Samia Huq, followed by an introduction to Dr. Goodstein’s work. The lecture concluded with a call for action from Hasibul Hasan Ahmed, Coordinator of the Social Impact Lab, who emphasized the importance of a zero-waste campus and sustainable practices at BRAC University.
During the lecture, Dr. Goodstein introduced his impactful work at Bard College, emphasizing three key strategies for effective climate action: changing the rules through policy, changing minds through education, and changing the game with sustainable business practices. He highlighted the critical transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, particularly solar power, which is becoming increasingly affordable and accessible. Dr. Goodstein stressed that this shift offers multiple benefits, including cleaner air, solutions to climate change, reduced energy poverty, and a transformation in global politics away from fossil fuel monopolies.
Addressing the urgent challenge of global warming, Dr. Goodstein explained the science behind greenhouse gas emissions and their role in rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and the potential collapse of ice sheets. He pointed out that Bangladesh, in particular, is at significant risk due to the rising sea levels caused by climate change. He called for rapid decarbonization efforts through the expansion of renewable energy, electrification, and the adoption of sustainable policies.
The lecture also explored global efforts to combat climate change, with Dr. Goodstein praising initiatives such as BRAC University’s social entrepreneurship projects, including innovative solutions like beach plastic recycling and plant-based leather alternatives. He acknowledged China's leadership in renewable energy and the influence of U.S. political dynamics on global climate policies. He also warned that a rollback of climate policies in the U.S. could escalate global temperatures and exacerbate climate-related disasters.
Despite political obstacles, Dr. Goodstein expressed optimism for the future, citing California’s independent clean energy policies and the worldwide shift toward sustainability. He ended his speech with a powerful call to action, urging students to engage actively in the energy transition and become part of the solution to the climate crisis.
The event sparked meaningful discussions and reaffirmed BRAC University’s commitment to creating leaders who actively contribute to addressing global challenges like climate change.