Addressing Climate Change
Pepperdine University's School of Public Policy is dedicated to addressing climate change through its Master's in Public Policy program. This program takes a holistic approach to various policies and the 50-unit curriculum has selected specialization courses that explore the different dimensions of climate change. Faculty research has included studies on water and agriculture policies and their effect on the economy, electives include a focus on land use and GIS mapping, and students run the Association of Environmental Professionals student organization. The school seeks to embody the morals and values of sustainable living.
Climate change has become a significant concern globally, and its implications are worrying. The long-term effects of climate change include extreme weather patterns, a reduction in the availability of freshwater, and negative impacts on both humans and animals. The increase in average global temperatures has already caused significant environmental changes, leading to significant economic and health costs. If greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase at their current rate, some research suggests the earth will surpass its ideal temperature threshold by 2040.
The root cause of climate change is the increased demand for energy and reliance on burning non-renewable fossil fuels, which pose a threat to the environment. Burning fossil fuels releases CO2, a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, causing the planet to become warmer. As individuals, we can make small changes in daily life that can have a significant impact on reducing carbon footprint, such as reducing electricity usage, driving less, and ensuring homes are energy-efficient.
Climate change is a complex issue that requires action from individuals, governments, and organizations. The effects of climate change are alarming, but it's a great time to get educated and take action. Pepperdine's School of Public Policy is committed to creating a sustainable future through its Master's in Public Policy program, which prepares students to become leaders in the public policy sphere. The program offers courses such as environmental policy, environmental economics, and permissions, development, and the environment. By engaging the public in discussions on climate change, students in this program can learn how to develop policies that help reduce the impact of climate change. With a commitment to sustainability, everyone can contribute to reversing the effects of climate change and with a growing awareness of the issue and a commitment to sustainability, we can work towards reversing the effects of climate change and create a better future for ourselves and the planet.
To learn more about Pepperdine’s commitment to creating a sustainable future and how individuals can make a difference in their daily life, review our commitment to a greener campus through biofilters, recycling, remodeled buildings, organic waste collection, and alternative energy sources by visiting the Center for Sustainability.