The main cause of climate change is human activity, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is leading Governor Hogan's efforts to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to the potential consequences of climate change while creating jobs and benefiting the economy. These efforts fall primarily under the role of MDE's Air and Radiation Administration (ARA), which has a mission "to improve and maintain air quality and control sources of radiation in order to protect the health and welfare of the people and the environment of Maryland, while providing for enhanced community service and economic development." Some examples of the broader functions of ARA include: providing information to the public about the quality of the air and any air pollution problems; assisting businesses in understanding and meeting requirements of air quality laws and regulations; and providing permits and licenses to sources of air pollution which limit their emissions.  The Climate Change Division is part of ARA's Air Quality Planning Program, which manages GHG reduction plans and coordinates work towards the state's goals.  Of the many initiatives throughout the State which contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and the Maryland Commission on Climate Change (chaired by our Secretary, Ben Grumbles) are key efforts by MDE's Climate Change Division.

Speakers will be:  

• Luke Wisniewski, Chief of Climate Change, Maryland Department of the Environment
• Jess Herpel, Natural Resources Planner, Maryland Department of the Environment

This event is open to the entire campus community.

Refreshments will be provided.