On Tuesday, September 16, the Patel College of Global Sustainability welcomed Dr. Feng Hao, associate professor in the 最新天美传媒鈥檚 Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, for a Sustainability Speaker Series exploring the climate challenge from a social science perspective.
Feng Hao presents Climate Challenges through a Social Lens
While conversations about climate change often focus on natural and environmental sciences, Hao invited students to consider another important part of the equation: people. Drawing from his research as an environmental sociologist, he discussed how economic activity, international trade, public opinion, and social systems can influence both the causes of the climate crisis and potential solutions.
During the presentation, Dr. Hao shared findings from his research examining the relationship between economic growth and carbon emissions. He also discussed how international trade can shift emissions between countries, with pollution-intensive production often occurring in lower-income countries while goods are consumed elsewhere.
The conversation then turned into potential solutions. Dr. Hao highlighted the importance of public perception and social behavior in building support for climate action. He shared research examining how factors such as social networks, trust, political orientation and connections to carbon-intensive industries can influence climate beliefs, behavioral intentions and support for climate policies.
Human behavior can be either top-down or bottom-up
Dr. Feng Hao
Associate Professor at 最新天美传媒
鈥淗uman behavior can be either top-down or bottom-up,鈥 Dr. Hao said during the discussion, explaining that individual motivation and broader institutions can work together to influence sustainable behavior.
Beyond research, the professor encouraged students to think about how these topics translate into careers. He highlighted opportunities in environmental consulting, government and public policy, renewable energy, nonprofit organizations, urban planning, education, sustainable agriculture, research, and data and analytics.
His advice to students preparing for the sustainability workforce centered on three areas: developing a strong understanding of sustainability issues, building methodological and analytical skills, and gaining real-world experience through internships.
The Sustainability Speaker Series connects USF students with professionals and researchers across sustainability fields, giving grads and undergrads a chance to explore emerging issues, engage in conversation, and learn about potential career pathways.