Mainers from every corner of the state are stepping up to the climate challenge. Practical, creative and trailblazing teachers, bus drivers, students, communities, recent graduates and professional athletes alike are taking action to get ahead of the climate curve. Read their stories.
Peter Slovinsky has a life-long fascination with the coast. Growing up, he spent hours digging in the sand, fishing and surfing. In his 5th grade yearbook, he said wanted to be a “Coastal Engineer” when he grew up.
He got pretty close.
Read more of How a Marine Geologist Measures Maine's Coastal Changes
You can take climate action and help scientists understand Maine’s changing climate by tracking observations from your own backyard. Citizen science, also referred to as community science, is a collaboration between scientists and everyday people to monitor things like water quality, storms, tides, temperatures, trail conditions, and more.
Anyone can participate with citizen science. Projects span different interests, locations and commitment levels. Introductory training is typically provided.
Read more of How To Contribute to Climate Science: Become a Citizen Scientist!
Spurred to roll up their sleeves by accelerating climate change risks, Dr. Lesley Fernow and four fellow Dover-Foxcroft residents formed the Climate Action Advisory Committee (CAAC) in August 2021. The group’s goal is to bring climate change awareness to the local selectboard and to the county decision-making process.
Read more of How 5 Dover-Foxcroft Residents formed a Climate Action Advisory Committee
Dr. Sean Birkel’s interest in science started around age five when his parents bought him a telescope. Sean later became fascinated with Earth’s climate while taking an Ice Ages course at the University of Maine. The course also launched Sean’s journey to becoming a climate scientist.
Read more of Meet a Climate Scientist: Maine State Climatologist Dr. Sean Birkel
Matt Damon, co-founder of Penobscot Home Performance, has crawled into basements, climbed into attics and inspected every inch of Maine homes for over fifteen years. He measures insulation, looks for air leaks or excess moisture and evaluates windows, doors and safety systems. His goal? To weatherize and make Maine homes warmer, drier, less costly to operate, comfortable - and more energy efficient.
Read more of Weatherization: 5 Questions Answered by a Home Performance Expert