Spotlight Delaware presents Shifting Sands: An Environmental Sustainability Summit, a daylong gathering dedicated to confronting the pressing challenges of climate change on the Delaware landscape, and exploring solutions for a more sustainable future. The summit will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, at the Hyatt Place Dewey Beach Lighthouse Cove Event Center in Dewey Beach.

This event will convene policy leaders, environmental advocates and local changemakers who are charged with enacting the state’s climate and energy strategies. Attendees will engage in thought-provoking discussions, gain practical insights, and participate in collaborative dialogues to help Delaware adapt and innovate in response to environmental challenges.

“At Spotlight Delaware, we believe in journalism that not only informs but also empowers communities to take action,” said Editor in Chief Jacob Owens. “Shifting Sands will serve as a platform to discuss solutions and foster collaboration.”

Anne Therese Gennari, author of The Climate Optimist’s Handbook, will be the keynote speaker. Gennari will share her journey from climate despair to hope and empower attendees to take meaningful action in their communities.

The program will also include:

  • Secretary of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Greg Patterson and Sen. Stephanie Hansen, chair of the Delaware State Senate Environment, Energy & Transportation Committee, will offer an update of state activity and upcoming proposed legislation around climate issues.
  • Delaware State Climatologist Kevin Brinson, DNREC Climate and Sustainability Section Administrator Susan Love and Bethany Beach Mayor Ron Calef will set the stage for the discussion with a review of the real impacts of climate change being seen right now in the First State – and offer a forecast for the next 10 years. 
  • Energize Delaware Executive Director Drew Slater, Delaware Sea Grant (DESG) Coastal Hazards Specialist Danielle Swallow, and Center for Inland Director of Outreach and Education Lisa Swanger will talk about individual actions that Delawareans can take to increase climate resiliency in their homes and communities
  • Andrew Cottone (CEO and founder of Aternium) and Chris Bason (formerly of Ørsted) will discuss how Delaware companies are investing in a clean energy future.

For more information and to register, visit spotlightdelaware.org.

ABOUT SPOTLIGHT DELAWARE

Spotlight Delaware is on a mission to engage, empower and connect Delawareans with local news and information. We envision a Delaware where all neighbors have access to the local news and information they need to thrive on a daily basis, participate in local democracy and engage with their communities. Sign up for our free newsletter at spotlightdelaware.org/newsletters, and donate at spotlightdelaware.org/support. 

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