Pepperdine University

The project creates a unique curriculum-based communication and action plan for Protestant church leaders who wish to join the conversation on climate migration, and even put assets and resources to work in support, but do not presently know how to do it. Far too few understand how climate change will affect their communities in ways that demand serious action and long-term behavior modification, both here and abroad. Fewer still have thought through the demands that climate change will make on their resources and mission as they seek to support their neighbors in times of need. Our plan connects the experience of climate migration to potent biblical themes of exile, migration, refuge and respect for the earth and lays out possible steps faith communities may take to support climate migrants.

Faculty Lead:
Chris Doran

Students:
Amber Asuncion, Gabriella Banuelos, Anna Benjamin, Lars Birhanzel, Madison Enos, Nate Folkerts, Alia Grogan, Lindsay Hemming, Walden Hicks, Lauren Lee, Belle Li, Haley Miller, Katherine O’Neill, William Ortler, Luke Parlee, Emma Purdy, James Stuart, Mason Turner, Amanda Wong

Collaborating Partner:
University Church of Christ in Malibu — Eric Wilson, Joel Foster, Bradley Griffin, Falon Barton

Aligned LA County Sustainability Plan Goals:
Goal 5: Thriving ecosystems, habitats, and biodiversity. Goal 7: A fossil fuel-free LA County. Goal 11: Inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance that encourages participation in sustainability efforts, especially by disempowered communities.

Premiere Segment