ESAL spoke with Sarah Fisher, the director of environmental education at the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center to discuss importance of context on impact of environmental education efforts.

The Cibolo Center for Conservation uses science to inform decision-makers about practices and policies that affect the quality of life in the region and to promote natural resource conservation. Learn more about their mission and unique approach to community citizen science.

Geoscientist Mark Little discusses his role as the executive director of CREATE, an economic development center at UNC Chapel Hill, and how he helps foster shared economic prosperity. Learn more about how his work has contributed to creating economic opportunity for all through local, regional, and international approaches.

ESAL had the opportunity to speak with the Local Science Engagement Network's campaign director Daniel Barry to learn more about how the program aims to equip scientists with tools for building long-term relationships with policymakers.

ESAL spoke with biologist, environmental and social justice advocate, and founder Monica Unseld about her experiences with environmental justice and how they have shaped her efforts in empowering communities to hold large corporations responsible for adequate public health.

Counter Culture Labs is a community-centered biotech makerspace that provides local engagement through innovative projects in mycology, genomics, fermentation, and more. Learn more about the lab and how they have been able to get the public excited about science.

Read about the impact of the work done by Professor Denise Chavira’s research group, the Culture and Anxiety Lab for Mental Health Advances (CALMA) at UCLA. The group targets the extra hurdles ethnic minorities in rural communities of the U.S. have to manage around stigma, knowledge, and access to mental health services. Chavira's group is dedicated to improving mental health services in chronically underserved communities by working and building trust in Imperial Valley, California.

One Health Institute (OHI) has played a role in connecting scientists and policymakers in crafting local, science-driven solutions for urban development. OHI has expanded in purpose and scope to serve as that platform for communication and develop brand applications and websites so diverse groups can develop projects together. ESAL had the pleasure of speaking with Professor Susan VandeWoude, director at OHI to learn more about their initiatives.

ESAL interviewed George, a geological oceanographer and a freelance science journalist, about how he found synergy between writing and science in his dualistic career path. George has worked on ocean science and policy issues throughout the west coast, including for the State of California and the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary.