Please join us for the upcoming session of the International Workshop on Environment, Sustainability, & Education: Wednesday, April 3 7 2024 9:00am EST: Joshua L. DeVincenzo will be presenting “Enhancing Capacity in Adult Climate Literacy: Investigating Sustainability Mindsets in the U.S. Emergency Management Profession”. Abstract is available below; register here. The webinar is open to the public.

The Workshop is hosted and organized by the Center for Sustainable Futures at Teachers College, Columbia University and the Israeli Institute of Education for Sustainability at Kibbutzim College. Recordings of previous sessions are available free here and on our YouTube channel. Please share with your networks.

Oren Pizmony-Levy
Center for Sustainable Futures at Teachers College, Columbia University

Dafna Gan
Israeli Institute of Education for Sustainability at Kibbutzim College

Enhancing Capacity in Adult Climate Literacy: Investigating Sustainability Mindsets in the U.S. Emergency Management Profession

Abstract
This presentation delves into the critical intersection of climate literacy and emergency management in the U.S., addressing the learning needs of professionals grappling with the impacts of climate change. By conducting a collective case study with six certified emergency management professionals, the study explored their experiences and perceptions through surveys, interviews, and Sustainability Mindset Indicator assessments. Key findings highlighted a growing awareness among emergency managers of diverse climate impacts and emphasized the importance of localized information. A preference for practical, long-term thinking training emerged, emphasizing the integration of climate change knowledge into existing emergency management frameworks. Participants highlighted resource constraints and underscored the need for role refinement and cross-sector collaboration to address climate challenges effectively. Informed by Sustainability Mindset Principles, this research offers valuable insights for shaping future adult climate literacy programs, bridging the gap between emergency management and climate science practitioners, and fostering a comprehensive understanding of climate’s far-reaching effects.