By Domonique Green, Communications Specialist
Researchers from the Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) presented their work at the Climate Health Frontiers Symposium, hosted last month by the University of Houston. Here’s a quick look at who presented and what they discussed.
Sequoia Riley, PhD, Research Associate in the Water-Energy-Climate Nexus program , spoke during Session 2: Challenges and Opportunities at the Interface of Climate and Health. Her presentation, Reducing Energy Burden and Flood Damage Using Energy-Water Nexus Approach explored how integrated strategies can enhance resilience in flood-prone communities while alleviating energy burdens. Riley’s expertise in environmental planning, green infrastructure, and disaster risk management underscores HARC’s commitment to sustainable and equitable solutions. Her work also extends to clean onsite energy technology integration through the Department of Energy’s Southcentral Onsite Energy Generation Technical Assistance Partnership.
During Session 4: Tech Lightning Talks, Meredith Jennings, Ph.D., Senior Program Manager for Climate Equity and Resilience, presented Community-Driven Science for Action: Mapping Urban Heat Islands in Our Region. Jennings leads key climate initiatives at HARC, including the City of Houston’s Climate Action Plan and the Houston Harris Heat Watch program. Her presentation emphasized the power of community-engaged research in identifying urban heat hotspots and informing mitigation efforts, particularly in disadvantaged communities.
During the Tech Lightning Talks, Research Scientist Ebrahim Eslami, Ph.D., shared his research on Extreme Heat and Disease Burden Projections: A Case Study in Harris County, TX. His work examines the growing public health risks posed by extreme weather, including heatwaves and hurricanes. Using advanced data analysis and modeling, Eslami collaborates with local governments and community organizations to develop strategies that protect vulnerable populations from climate-induced health threats.
For more information on the symposium and its sessions, visit the event website.
