Every four years, the U.S. government is charged with releasing the National Climate Assessment, a report that provides a scientific foundation for policymakers, researchers, and community leaders to make informed decisions toward a climate-safe future. For the first time since these reports were initiated over 20 years ago, the Fifth National Climate Assessment (NCA5) prominently features throughlines of environmental justice and visual art. As part of NCA5’s Art x Climate project, selected works by artists of all ages are included throughout the 2023 report. 

What does the institutionalization of art and justice mean for how we respond to climate change—both in the U.S. and beyond? This panel discussion explored NCA5, its justice reorientation, and the power of the arts to usher in a wider cultural shift.

Panelists included:

• Mark Chambers, climate policy leader, social justice advocate, and architect; VP of Partnerships at Elemental Excelerator

• Allison Crimmins, climate scientist and Director of the Fifth National Climate Assessment

• Michael O. Snyder, photographer, NCA5 artist, and Professor of Visual Communications, Newhouse School, Syracuse University

Moderated by Anais Reyes, Senior Exhibitions Associate at the Climate Museum  

View the livestream recording here.