Intergenerational solidarity on climate with Charles Hua and Aruna Muthupillai

April 18, 2023

A recent study found that 70% of young people between the ages of 16 and 25 are extremely worried or very worried about the climate. The latest assessment that the global temperature is rising faster than previously predicted has added urgency for action and radical changes. Climate and sustainability are inherently intergenerational, as we must think about our consumption and using our environment in a way that is compatible with maintaining it for future generations. What are the roles young people play to increase awareness and ensure sustainability and a better future for all? How do we foster intergenerational solidarity to create positive synergies and push forward change?

Joining Zoe Leung to explore these important questions are two current undergraduate students focused on climate issues, Aruna Muthupillai from the University of Texas at Austin, and Charles Hua from Harvard College.

Aruna is a current student and Dedman Scholar at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in plan II honors and international relations and global studies. She is also currently pursuing a minor in Chinese language. Charles is an undergraduate at Harvard College pursuing an AB in statistics and mathematics with a minor in energy and environment. At Harvard, Charles serves on the Harvard Presidential Committee on Sustainability, is helping develop and write Harvard’s forthcoming sustainability plan and has previously advised Fortune 500 companies and international NGOs on sustainability issues. He has also conducted research on climate and energy policy with Harvard Kennedy School and Clean Energy States Alliance, where he has published reports on the energy transition and environmental justice. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the environmental nonprofits Clean Wisconsin, Energy News Network and Slipstream.

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