The 2024 Michigan Climate Summit is shaping up to be a pivotal event for anyone passionate about climate action, civic engagement, and social justice. As climate change continues to shape the global landscape, the importance of these gatherings cannot be overstated. This year’s summit brings together thought leaders, activists, policymakers, and citizens with a common goal: to confront the climate crisis and work toward sustainable solutions.
As one of the lead sponsors, we are proud to stand alongside some of the most influential voices in the climate movement, including keynote speakers Bill McKibben and Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. Whether you're new to climate advocacy or a seasoned activist, this summit promises to inspire and equip attendees with the tools needed to make a tangible difference. Here’s everything you need to know about this essential event, from its agenda to its broader significance.
What Is a Climate Summit?
A climate summit is a gathering of experts, activists, policymakers, and community members dedicated to addressing climate change. These events serve as a platform to share innovative solutions, build coalitions, and influence public policy. They aim to confront the environmental challenges we face, from rising temperatures to increasing natural disasters, through collaboration and concerted action.
At a climate summit, participants explore various aspects of the crisis, including mitigation strategies, adaptation techniques, and the political actions necessary to address the crisis on both local and global levels. The goal is to encourage people to come together to learn, collaborate, and act on the issue of climate change.
"Climate change is no longer some far-off problem; it is happening here; it is happening now." Barak Obama
Why Are Climate Summits Important?
- Fostering Collaboration: Climate summits are a unique forum where diverse stakeholders from across industries, movements, and communities come together to build a unified response to the climate crisis. This collaboration enables stronger, more cohesive action plans.
- Education & Advocacy: Attendees have access to the latest research, practical strategies, and direct communication with key policymakers and thought leaders. Summits offer an invaluable opportunity for individuals to become informed advocates for climate solutions.
- Inspiring Action: Climate summits do more than just provide information. They inspire attendees to act. Keynotes from figures like Bill McKibben, who has spearheaded efforts to combat fossil fuel projects like the Line 5 pipeline, and Jocelyn Benson, a leader in advocating for fair elections and democratic resilience, energize attendees to engage in activism, advocacy, and voting efforts to protect both the planet and democratic processes.
- Building a Sustainable Future: Tackling climate change is not only about reducing emissions—it’s about creating a livable planet for future generations. Summits provide the vision and tools needed to address not just environmental challenges but also issues related to equity, social justice, and democracy.
2024 Michigan Climate Summit at a Glance
- Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Date: September 26, 2024
- Keynote Speakers: Bill McKibben and Jocelyn Benson
For a comprehensive look at the event’s schedule and to learn more about the speakers, check out the official 2024 Michigan Climate Summit event schedule.
To stay connected and engaged before, during, and after the event, be sure to use the official summit hashtag #2024MIClimateSummit and follow MiCAN’s social media channels:
- Instagram: @miclimateaction
- Facebook: @Michigan Climate Action Network
- Twitter/X: @MiClimateAction
- TikTok: @miclimateaction
For more details about the summit, visit the official event site: www.miclimateaction.org/2024_michigan_climate_summit.
Be part of the conversation, get involved, and help shape the future of climate action in Michigan and beyond!
About The Speakers
Bill McKibben
Bill McKibben is a renowned environmentalist, author, and founder of the global climate movement 350.org. He is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in the fight against climate change. McKibben’s 1989 book The End of Nature was the first to bring the concept of global warming to a general audience, marking the beginning of his long and impactful career in climate activism. As a scholar-in-residence at Middlebury College, McKibben continues to advocate for policies that address the climate crisis, particularly focusing on the need to divest from fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy. His work has inspired countless grassroots movements aimed at reducing carbon emissions and building a more sustainable future.
Jocelyn Benson
Jocelyn Benson is the Secretary of State of Michigan and a prominent advocate for voting rights, election security, and democracy reform. As the state’s chief election officer, she has played a key role in ensuring accessible and secure elections in Michigan, particularly during the unprecedented challenges of the 2020 election. Benson’s leadership has garnered national attention for her efforts to protect voters' rights, defend against voter suppression, and uphold the integrity of the democratic process. A Harvard Law graduate and former dean of Wayne State University Law School, Benson has long been a champion of public service and civic engagement, and she continues to work on safeguarding democracy, especially in the face of climate-related challenges that can impact voter access and equity.
Practical Information for Attendees
- Hotels and Parking: If you're traveling from out of town, there are convenient hotel options and parking details available to make your stay hassle-free. You can find more information on accommodations on the summit’s venue and hotel page.
- Ticketing Options: In the spirit of inclusivity, ticket pricing is designed to ensure everyone can attend. There are needs-based discounts, scholarships, and free admission for University of Michigan students. Be sure to secure your tickets ahead of time to reserve your spot!
Other Michigan Events to Check Out in 2024
Beyond the Climate Summit, Michigan offers a variety of other events in 2024 focused on sustainability and environmental protection. Here are two noteworthy events :
1 - Great Lakes Drinking Water Conference
Focused on five decades of progress in water quality, this conference explores the future of water systems in Michigan and beyond. Attendees will learn from case studies and cutting-edge research while gaining insights into how to protect drinking water for future generations.
2 - Michigan Sustainability Conference
Hosted by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), this conference offers a day-and-a-half of programming featuring breakout sessions, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities. It’s a great place to learn about the intersection of business and sustainability and to find practical solutions for creating more eco-friendly communities and industries.
The Growth Sharks Is A Proud Sponsor Of The 2024 Michigan Climate Summit
As a purpose-driven performance marketing agency, we are dedicated to supporting impactful climate action. By partnering with organizations that share our vision of a resilient planet, we use digital strategies to amplify their messages and extend their reach. We are proud to sponsor the 2024 Michigan Climate Summit and look forward to continuing our work within the movement.
If you're interested in learning more about how digital marketing can help drive climate action, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information. Together, we can help create a sustainable future.
