Detailed Agenda

SoCal Earth is a data-driven, Esri-based geodesign tool that creates a holistic understanding of climate change in Southern California. Our design allows users to explore their environments,  encouraging residents, policy makers, and municipal planners to engage in community-first and climate-first decision making for regional environmental health, resilience, and well-being. Targeting everything from tree canopy placement to ecological connectivity, SoCal Earth is designed to be a central hub for environmental justice and climate information.

In the face of escalating climate change, the imperative to recalibrate our urban and environmental strategies is paramount. Geodesign serves as a pivotal instrument in this recalibration, facilitating a comprehensive reimagining of the global landscape to foster climate adaptability and resilience. This paradigm shift necessitates a departure from conventional grey infrastructure towards a holistic integration of nature-based solutions. The Sponge City concept exemplifies this shift  that not only addresses climate challenges but also revitalizes our connection with the natural world.

Greenhouse gas emissions must be cut in half each decade to limit global warming to less than 2.0° C. Much research has described and documented the problem. But which actions—and where—are the most effective at stopping climate change? Using examples from several sectors and countries, I highlight how spatial analysis using satellite imagery, infrastructure, and census data can map the suitability and impact of climate solutions. These new data products can help target actions to rapidly reduce climate pollutants and evaluate the benefits for people and nature.