Human civilization consists of all the outcomes of our cultures, beliefs, needs, and artistic creations. For tens of thousands of years, we have been artists, story-tellers, and investigators. More recently we have become industrialists and investors. As we apply what we learned to our lives and institutions, we often need to also make judgements of the value and harm we are causing to our own lives and that of our neighbors. The effects of climate change make clear contrasts between the financial benefits of the few and the environmental and health costs affecting the many. What kind of future do we want for our grandchildren and how do we get it?

Dr. Mitch Wagener teaches ecology and climate change courses at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. In 2019, he received the Aquarion Environmental Champion Award, Individual Communication category. That same year Dr. Wagener received an official citation from the Connecticut General Assembly for his efforts in climate change education and community service. His research interests include the impact of historical events—such as the Industrial Revolution—on the environment.

This program is free of charge. No beach pass is required if you are attending the Fred Elser First Sunday Science. Please let them know at the gate you are attending the Bruce museum seaside center lecture. First Sunday Science programs take place at the Floren Family Environmental Center at Innis Arden Cottage, Greenwich Point Park, Old Greenwich, CT.