Statement by Deborah Lahey, President and CEO of the Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum regarding the United States announcement to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.
There is an undeniable correlation between the health of our planet and the health of all living things. That fact is what makes the United States’ announcement withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement a concern to many people. The action could erode the collective, global efforts needed to provide solutions to climate change as well as other collaborations. Our world needs every leading country working together for the good of all living things.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is deeply committed to fact-based, environmental research and education, and we advocate for uniting global and local efforts to protect our planet and nature. Through our collection and ongoing research, we have documented 160 years of history of the environmental changes in our region and continue to contribute to science-based learning.
On a more personal and individual level, the Nature Museum is building a deeper connection between nature and the public. Every day, we provide a welcoming gateway for people to better understand our urban environment and what it means to them. Through engaging exhibit experiences and programs, including the self-produced exhibit Our House: Rethinking Home in a Changing Climate, people are encouraged to think about how our choices — from building homes to driving cars – can be in harmony with nature, or not.
Our region is fortunate that Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced in response to the U.S. decision that the City of Chicago will continue forward “to achieve goals set in the Paris deal.” Many regional business and civic leaders also are publicly stating their support for the country to stay in the agreement. This leadership will help Chicago to continue making progress reducing carbon emissions in line with the international climate accord.
We believe it is critical for everyone to stay informed and united in efforts to address climate change. To increase our contributions to these efforts, the Nature Museum plans to convene more forums with organizations, policy officials, municipalities, thought leaders, and individuals to dialogue about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pursuing innovative clean energy sources that are good for the environment and create new jobs.
Be assured that our teams of scientists and educators are working to build greater public understanding and engagement in climate and environmental issues. We know that unity makes us strong, and collectively we can protect the environment on which all living things, including each of us, depend – now and in the future.
