Events

Past Event

Earth Day 2026: Climate & Environmental Justice in New York City

April 23, 2026
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
America/New_York
Faculty House, 64 Morningside Dr., New York, NY 10027 Skyline Dining Room

Registration Closed- Event at Capacity and No Walk-In Can Be Accepted 

Earth Day 2026: Climate & Environmental Justice in New York City

Location: Faculty House (Entrance located at 116th St & Amsterdam)    **Click here for map & directions

Now in its fifth year, this annual conference series launched on Earth Day 2022 at Columbia University and is a partnership between the Columbia Climate School and the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce.

This series will continue to explore the critical climate-driven health and environmental challenges impacting housing, education, and policy in underserved communities. Join renowned researchers, community leaders, and public officials as we explore how government, corporate, and stakeholders can collaborate to lead the way toward a healthier, more equitable planet.

Speakers

  • Sheila R. Foster, Professor of Climate, Columbia Climate School
  • Louise Yeung, Chief Climate Officer, NYC Mayor's Office of Climate & Environmental Justice
  • NYC Council Member Yusef Salaam, 9th District
  • Judge MiltonTingling, West Harlem Development Corporation

Panel

Moderator -Daniel Zarrilli, Chief Climate & Sustainability Officer, Columbia University

Panelists

  • Peggy Shepard, Co-Founder & Executive Director, WEACT for Environmental Justice
  • Sandra Goldmark, Professor of Professional Practice in the Faculty of Climate, Columbia Climate School
  • Christine Osuji, Director of Environmental Justice, Con-Edison 
  • Dr. Shakila Merchant, Deputy Director, CUNY CREST Institute
  • Kenny R. Placencio, Director of Summer Streets, Car-Free Earth Day and Citywide Signature Events

Important Notice: Due to current access restrictions on the Columbia University Morningside Campus, all guests must register in advance. Please complete your registration by Wednesday, April 22, at 3:00 PM to ensure entry. We kindly inform you that walk-ins cannot be accommodated at this time. Please click "Reserve your seat" button below on this page to register.

This event is co-produced by the Columbia Climate School & The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce.

This event is sponsored by Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC), City College of New York (CCNY), Office of the Mayor, New York City, WE ACT for Environmental Justice, NYC Councilmember Yusef Salaam, 9th District

Contact Information

Omar J. Herrera