Climate Hub Student Project Fund

Toxic Free Philly Drexel was founded by a group of interdisciplinary students with the vision of mitigating toxic synthetic herbicide exposure on Drexel University’s campus and in the greater Philadelphia community. In collaboration with Drexel Facilities, Re:wild Your Campus, and PJC Organics, we aim to expand our first-in-state organic turf care program and research project at Drexel Park, and transition the entire campus away from synthetic herbicides. Conventional turf management often involves using synthetic herbicides like RoundUp, posing health risks to humans and local wildlife, including cancer and reproductive harm. In contrast, organic turf programs outcompeting weed growth by improving soil health markers and promoting natural turf proliferation. Previous data collection efforts have shown that implementing an organic turf program can reduce total land care costs due to the reduction in irrigation and fertilization needs of the soil. Funding supports research expansion, soil enhancements for Drexel Park, and community engagement. Our research informs campus management decisions and advocates for enforcing the Healthy Outdoor Public Spaces law in Philadelphia, which aims to eliminate synthetic herbicides. Our initiatives reflect Drexel University's commitment to human and environmental health, showcasing leadership in sustainable campus practices and advocating for healthier public spaces.

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This project focuses on improving hygiene practices and sanitation infrastructure in West Pokot County, Kenya, through a spatial analysis approach. As final-year students pursuing a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Global Health at Drexel University, we aim to address public health challenges exacerbated by climate change. Through field surveys and GIS mapping, we'll identify areas with low handwashing and sanitation facility usage rates, crucial for preventing waterborne diseases. With the support of the Climate Hub Student Project Fund, we'll engage local communities, distribute hygiene kits, and conduct educational workshops to promote sustainable hygiene practices. By collaborating with diverse stakeholders, both within Drexel and in West Pokot County, we aim to foster interdisciplinary solutions and empower communities to build resilience against climate-related health threats. Vote for us to support impactful research that bridges global health, sustainability, and community engagement.
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The project envisions a curriculum expansion building on Drexel University's courses investigating redlining's impact on healthcare, notably IPS 380. Leveraging ArcGIS Storymaps and its immersive storytelling platform, it aims to visually connect contemporary climate change challenges and their affect on the human body, while touching on redlining and how marginalized groups can be disproportionately affected by climate change, and fostering an interdisciplinary and visually engaging educational experience. Collaborating with Drexel's Climate Change and Health Equity Group and local organizations, the project emphasizes on-the-ground research, community narratives, and data collection to reveal environmental challenges across neighborhoods. The curriculum will also explore the biological impacts of climate change on human health, bridging environmental studies and health sciences. Multimedia elements, field trips, and student projects enhance engagement, with a focus on community outreach for knowledge dissemination. Collaboration ensures the curriculum aligns with real-world experiences, empowering students to advocate for environmental justice. This project not only educates but empowers students to contribute to community well-being, aligning with the University's strategic goals for a socially engaged student body. The curriculum's holistic approach fosters a comprehensive understanding of environmental injustices, promoting positive change in Philadelphia.[No text in field]

The Sustainable Fashion Center would provide access to free secondhand clothing and service clothing donation, upcycling, and recycling. It would ensure everyone is able to afford clothing, while encouraging students to consciously dispose of clothing and learn the importance of sustainability. The center would also support student brands and local sustainable brands, promoting them in the store and sourcing sustainable fabrics/materials for students to design with.  Funding will go to; sourcing students with sustainable fabric/clothing they have easy access to, providing education on how sustainability is intertwined with Global Humanitarian advocacy, and increasing equity in regards to clothing on campus. The center will host events and workshops that teach

Drexel Thrift is a student run group that strives to create a more sustainable campus. We host events where students may get clothes that were donated by fellow students, instead of purchasing fast fashion and contributing to pollution. Many shelters and thrift stores are involved and will definitely be a good connection with students in the club or those who attend events. 

The Sustainable Fashion Center & Drexel Thrift will be working together through the Climate Hubs Student Project.

Ready to engage with one of the most critical issues of our time? The student-led film festival aims to confront the pressing global issue of climate change's impact on water resources. This festival offers immersion into the stories of communities on the frontlines of climate change's growing threat to our planet's water. Through a robust lineup of documentaries, attendees delve into the multifaceted challenges facing global water systems, from droughts and floods to pollution and scarcity.  However, this event goes beyond film screenings; it catalyzes change and raises awareness. Participants will engage in deep discussions with filmmakers, scientists, and activists about water issues from Philadelphia to Africa. A key focus is empowering students to lead conversations and mobilize our campus and city to take action.  Join us as we utilize the power of storytelling to illuminate the interconnectedness of water and climate, empowering individuals to become agents of change in safeguarding this precious resource for future generations. Let us make waves together at "Water, Camera, Action" – where film meets advocacy for a water-secure world.

This project aims to implement a solar power system in MantuaUrban Peace Garden, Philadelphia, led by Drexel Engineers Without Borders.Sustainable support structures and power electronics will be designed,integrating a machine learning-driven solar tracker. This initiative fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across Drexel units, showcasing the university's commitment to sustainability. Community engagement will be paramount, with diverse voices and local expertise shaping the project's development. New partnerships with community organizations will be formed through outreach and mutual respect, ensuring long-term benefits for both Drexel and the Mantua community.