Program Alumni Speak to Students About Career Opportunities at SDSG

Environmental and Natural Resources Law and Policy alumni, Nadia Ahmad and Kristi Disney made time in their schedules to come and speak to students interested in international environmental law on Thursday November 8^th.

Ms. Ahmad and Ms. Disney came with Professor Cecilia Dalupan to share the mission, projects and programs of the Sustainable Development Strategies Group (SDSG). They also highlighted internship opportunities available for students.

SDSG is a sustainable development consulting group focused on capacity building for governments, communities and practitioners. Professor Dalupan, a Principal of SDSG, spoke passionately about the increasing awareness of environmental and natural resources sustainability issues. SDSG’s projects include the Model Mine Development Agreement, a template for government leaders when making long-term mining agreements. Other projects focus on transparency initiatives, government accountability, community benefits sharing and seminars and workshops to teaching natural resource development skills.

Kristi Disney is now working as the Director of International Programs at SDSG.

Nadia Ahmad is now working as a Legal Fellow at SDSG. Ms. Ahmad stated, “The specializations offered by the ENRGP program will really give you an edge.”

We thank all three of these passionate women for taking time to speak to our students about the exciting opportunities that await them in international environmental law. The ENRGP program also wish Ms. Disney and Ms. Ahmad continued success in their future endeavors!

Boulder Voters Prioritize Environmental Concerns

President Obama was elected for a second term last night. We are looking forward to seeing what his reelection means for environmental concerns in our nation.  Most notably, the Production Tax Credit, which is set to expire at the end of this year and would have an effect many efforts in CO.

Voters in Boulder made two loud environmental declarations at the voting booths last night. Voters approved a five-year extension of the city’s Climate Action Plan tax and a twenty-year extension of its 0.25% sales tax for parks and recreation. 

The Climate Action Plan tax on energy use allows the city to continue renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. Tax revenue provides rebates, credits and energy audits for businesses and homeowners.

"It's really heartening to see that Boulderites supported it so heavily, which keeps Boulder in the forefront of the world with the actions we're taking," Boulder Mayor Matt Appelbaum said. "It allows us to continue as a model for other communities in terms of programs that are cost-effective and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and are just a good return on investment."

The Boulder Parks and Recreation tax was approved by an even higher margin. The tax was set to expire in 2015, but city officials wanted to provide for more stability in long term planning. The Parks and Recreation tax generated $7.1 million for parks are recreation in 2012 and contributes 27% of the parks department budget. The tax is now set to expire in 2035. Boulder will see continued improvement to its parks and recreation facilities.

It is exciting to see environmental issues on the ballot and even more exciting to see that the residents of Boulder put such a high value on the condition of their environment. Let's hope the trend of democratic movements toward sustainability and environmental contentiousness continues.

  

Angelica M. Oman

Graduate Program Assistant