Amplifying Impact: The Role of Professional Societies in Community-Led Environmental Science

Professional societies can play important roles in society's climate change response. Sitting at the junction of scientific innovation, policy advocacy, and community engagement, professional societies are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between principal investigators (PIs), governments, and local communities. As non-governmental actors, these groups streamline the transfer of research into actionable strategies by facilitating knowledge exchange, standardizing methodologies, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaborations.

This presentation will outline how professional societies can amplify the reach and relevance of scientific endeavors and help ensure that community priorities are at the forefront of environmental policies and practices. It will argue for their enhanced involvement in driving interdisciplinary approaches, advocating for inclusive and informed policy-making, and empowering communities through accessible, science-based solutions. The session aims to inspire a cohesive dialogue among community leaders, scientists, and policymakers, highlighting the necessity of a united front to effectively address the pressing environmental challenges of our times. Lastly, the talk will highlight the joint Optica-AGU Global Environmental Measurement and Monitoring Initiative.