About the
Conference
Poster Presentations
What is a poster presentation?
In a poster presentation, the presenter(s) illustrate research findings using graphs, photos, diagrams, and a small amount of text in a virtual poster.
Conference attendees can view a short video walkthrough of each poster and the virtual poster in advance of the conference. During the scheduled session time, poster presenters will answer questions and engage with attendees in real time.
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To join a poster presentation: please login to the KI Storm (Conference Registration Required)
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Thematic Pathway Summary
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A: Addressing Water Scarcity
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B: Data and Technology Innovation for Climate Solutions and Sustainability
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C: Traversing the Science Policy Interface in the Context of a Changing Climate
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D: Diverse Perspectives and Shared Approaches in Resilience and Sustainability
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E: Innovative Practices for Sustainability Education
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F: Improving Water Quality
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G: Colleges Countering COVID
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H: Governance in a Changing World: Food, Energy and Water
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I: Climate and COVID: The Combined Impacts of Multiple Stressors
Learn more about Thematic Pathways.
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January
5
Watershed Conservation for Water Provision in Rural Chilean Patagonia
Our study shows the importance of forest conservation in Patagonia to ensure the provision of fresh water. A maximum water harvest occurs in winter months (5.0 m3/s); in others the flow is 1.5 m3/s. In June a 15% of the demand by the nearby communities could be satisfied.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Alejandro León, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Universidad de Chile
Lucas De la Fuente, Eng., Associate Researcher, Universidad de Chile
Jorge Soto, Eng., Associate Researcher, Universidad de Chile
José Vistoso, Eng., Consultant, Asociación de Municipalidades de la Cordillera de la Costa de la Región de Los RÃos
January
5
Considering Hazardous Ecosystems in Early Care and Education Programs and Policy
Chronic toxicity increases health risk for children. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry's CSPECE program, in collaboration with key partners, supports health departments in protecting children from potential exposures in and around early care and learning environments.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Adelaide Appiah, MPH, Senior Program Analyst, Maternal Child and Adolescent Health, National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO)
Hester Paul, M.S., National Director, Eco-Healthy Child Care®, Children's Environmental Health Network (CEHN)
Tobie Bernstein, M.S., Director, Indoor Environments and Green Buildings Program, Environtmental Law Institute (ELI)
Jennifer Freed, MPH, REHS/RS, Environmental Health Scientist, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Samantha Ritter, MPH, Director, Maternal Child and Adolescent Health, National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO)
January
5
Indoor Environmental Dust Collection Techniques for Accurate Microbial Exposure
We spend 90% of our time indoors where we are exposed to a complex mixture of microorganisms, which can impact human health. We characterized collection efficiencies for two common methods to prevent underestimation of exposure, with implications for allergies and asthma.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Ashleigh Bope, Ph.D. Candidate, Ohio State University
January
5
A Sustainable Industrial Model for Bioethanol Production in Puerto Rico
BBfuels of Puerto Rico, LLC is a green company that proposes a novel approach to biomass conversion to produce bioethanol.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Jorge L. Nina Espinosa, M.S. Environmental Health, Graduate Research Assistant, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico
January
5
Relocalization: Challenges and Strategies
Moving production of goods and services closer to the end users can have significant economic and environmental benefits. The carbon emissions and other impacts from thousands of miles of transportation can be eliminated. Local communities can be empowered by retaining employment opportunities.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Robert Amundsen, Ph.D., Director, Energy Management, New York Institute of Technology
January
5
Can Recycling Education Programs Promote Recycling Rates in the U.S.?
It is known that recycling education has positive effects on recycling behaviors, thereby increasing recycling rates. Using the US EPA's Environmental Education Grants database, this study empirically tests the relationship between publicly funded recycling projects and the U.S. recycling rates.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Younsung Kim, Ph.D., Associate Professor, George Mason University
Chan-ho Oh, Student, Langley High School
Aashna Sawhney, Student, Duke University
Tarun Sivanandan, Student, Oakton High School
January
5
It Is Out of Sight, but Can No Longer Be Out of Mind
The shortage of operators in the water industry led Bristol Community College to apply for a National Science Foundation Advanced Technology Education Grant for the New England Water Treatment Training (NEWTT) Project. With the awarded funds the college created the hands-on Blue Center for Water Technologies and two training certificates.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Robert S. Rak, M.S., Professor of Environmental Technology, Bristol Community College
January
5
Exploring Agrophotovoltaics in Guatemala to Foster Positive Change
Agricultural schools in Guatemala are responding to challenges in the sector (e.g., migration, food insecurity, climate change, poverty, etc.). Agrophotovoltaics combine solar photovoltaics with agriculture and may be an approach to enhance the sector and respond to other emerging rural challenges.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
John Ignosh, M.S., Extension Specialist, Virginia Tech
Mario Buch, M.S., Section Chief of Research Department, Escuela Nacional Central de Agricultura (ENCA) Guatemala
January
6
Molecular Inclusion Complexes of CLD and β-HCH with CD's for Water Treatment
CLD and β-HCH causes severe affectations to health. Their interaction with several cyclodextrins(CD) for water depollution was studied. The more stable complexes were obtained for γ-CD. These results suggest the feasibility of using CDs for the management, purification and water treatment.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Queiroz Portorreal, Masters of Engineering Student, Research Assistant, Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo
January
6
Microplastic Hazards on Water Quality and Human Health
This presentation investigates the different types of microplastics found on a beach in Karachi, Pakistan. It highlights what types of actions need to be taken to minimize the effects of microplastics on water quality and marine food chains.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Hina Talib, M.S., Researcher, Jinnah University for Women, Karachi, Pakistan
January
6
Citizen Science in Action: Water Quality Monitoring Using Arduino Sensors
Non-point source pollution in waterway tributaries is a serious threat to water quality, however monitoring tools are often too expensive to be widely distributed. This study uses Arduino based devices in conjunction with citizen science to bridge that knowledge gap.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Alandra Kahl, Ph.D., Associate Teaching Professor of Environmental Engineering, Penn State Greater Allegheny
January
6
The COVID-19 & Climate Change Syndemic: Recognize Global Threats & Opportunities
Using simulation strategies, we deployed a workshop to educate medical students about the unprecedented public health threats of the syndemic of climate change and COVID-19. They developed plans for future prevention and mitigation to advocate for their patients and planetary health.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Holly Rosencranz, M.D., Clinical associate professor of medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine
Japhia Ramkumar, M.D., Clinical associate professor of medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine
Leslie Herzog, M.D. (Retired)
January
6
Pedestriant Thermal Comfort Evaluation of Multi-Modal Corridors in Tucson, Arizona
Extreme heat is increasing the heat stress of pedestrians, especially in low-income communities. This research aims to document ambient and radiant temperatures to understand heat stress's effect on individuals' heat vulnerability and thermal comfort level.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Ida Sami, Ph.D. Candidate, University of Arizona
January
7
A Tale of Three Cities: A Worldly Approach to Innovative Urban Water Management Strategies
Increased anthropogenic pressure and extreme weather events threaten the sustainability of freshwater resources. The inadequate infrastructure of many urban landscapes often intensifies this trend. We will highlight unique and transformative strategies from Copenhagen, Singapore and Melbourne’s water management plans to address the challenges faced by Toronto, Canada, in meeting freshwater demands.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Keeva Fitzpatrick, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
Kate Greer, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
Erin Moffatt, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
January
7
The Digital Divide: A Lesser Known Symptom Impacting Communities During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Rural areas are disproportionately affected by internet requirements during COVID-19. Our poster will examine the feasibility of Broadband Over Powerline infrastructure as a solution to providing reliable internet to rural areas in an ecologically sound and cost-effective way, enhancing opportunities for economic contributions from rural areas.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Sydney Shepherd, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
Danielle Douglas, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
Morgan Lane, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
January
7
Aerial Hyperspectral Imagery for Assessing Field Scale Heterogeneity in Crops
This research hypothesized that Hyperspectral imagery is better than Multispectral imagery for assessing field scale heterogeneities and if observed field scale heterogeneities can be linked to farm management options. The goal is to develop methods and algorithms to find discrimination in crop plot
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Habibur Howlider, Graduate Student, Graduate Teaching Assistant, University of Texas at El Paso
January
7
Mapping Bull Kelp Forests of Puget Sound With Consumer-Level UAV Image Platforms
This project seeks to evaluate the efficacy of using consumer-level UAV (or drone) image platforms to survey floating bull kelp forests in Puget Sound. To achieve this, aerial surveys were conducted in collaboration with the Washington Department of Natural Resources during the 2020 summer season.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Tyler Cowdrey, Masters Student, The Evergreen State College
January
7
Managing With Logic: A Bayesian Causal Network Assessment of Forest Management in the Monarch Reserve Using the Critical List
The aim of this study is to evaluate and contrast four sites that represent (relatively) efficient sustainable common pool forest management. The research design focuses on the systematic analysis of these variables to see how they are in fact relevant to the forest cover change over time.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Miramanni Mishkin, Graduate Student, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México – UNAM Centro de Investigaciones en GeografÃa Ambiental – CIGA
January
7
Urban Areas at Great Risk From Flood Damage
While floods cost billions annually, outdated/incomplete regulatory maps put homeowners at risk. We harnessed big data and machine learning to estimate flood susceptibility throughout the U.S. Our results suggest that regulatory maps largely bypass flood risk experienced in urban areas.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Elyssa Collins, Ph.D. Student, North Carolina State University, Center for Geospatial Analytics
January
7
Human dimensions of growing bioenergy trees among farmers in North Carolina
Science has proven the benefits of growing bioenergy trees in the ecosystem. However, the social factors influencing its adoption among farmers are still unknown. To bring research to action, this poster addresses factors that influence the human dimensions of growing bioenergy trees among farmers.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Omoyemeh Ile, Ph.d. Student and Graduate Research Assistant, North Carolina State University
January
7
Coastal Management and Federal Consistency: A Policy Tool for Coastal Resilience
Using a shared governance lens, this research explores the role of CZMA federal consistency as a planning tool for climate adaptation and hazard mitigation.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Heather Wade, Ph.D. Student, Texas A&M University
January
7
Energy Justice through Solar: The Social Construction of Low-Income Households
Little research yet investigates how solar policies have characterized and engaged with the target populations. Applying the social construction framework (SCF), this study examines how low-income households are socially constructed in policy provisions and how their social construction has been reinforced or changed through public participation.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Yutong Si, Ph.D. Student, Northeastern University
January
7
The Role That Values Play in the Interactions of Social and Ecological Systems
The work of science is to obtain well justified reliable information about the world. Given that all people have to consider how their actions will impact others, the work of scientists should be no exception. This work emphasizes the role of values to help illuminate which values shape different disciplines. My aim is to bring some of this literature to light in order to outline some of the ways in which the values of various disciplines can achieve synergistic outcomes and sustainability.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Nico Clarke, Student, University of Dayton
January
7
Innovative Behavior: Increasing Litter Collection on Public Lands and Waters
Through collaborative engagement, this project has led to the development of a sustainable behavior change innovation that can decrease litter and evolve with an aging generation: a mobile application that motivates users with prize incentives provided by local businesses.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Maria Gilbert, Graduate Student, North Carolina State University
January
7
The CST: A Study of Tourism Certification and Sustainability in Costa Rica
Tourism is the largest industry in the world. Yet, it faces significant challenges for developing sustainably. This research addressed how Costa Rica’s novel certification policy helps balance economic growth with sustainable development and environmental values in the face of climate change.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Caylea Barone, Undergraduate Research Fellow, the Lampert Institute for Civic and Global Affairs, Colgate University
January
7
Examining Factors That Influence Restoration of Wading Bird Nesting Colonization in Florida Everglades National Park
This project reviews water levels, proximity to human activity, and colony longevity ability to influence restoration of nesting colonization by examining their impact on the Roseate Spoonbill and Wood Stork. Using Wading birds as indicator species for changes in the ecosystem, can be interpreted to improve restoration management practices.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Madison Jane Pollard, Student, Broward College
January
7
Resilience for Refugee Women Through Social and Environmental Solutions
This research investigates the challenges women face in refugee camps as well as the relationship between social and environmental issues to exhibit how one-off solutions may solve more than one problem and increase overall resilience for female refugees.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Iliana Lukasik, Student Research Assistant, Oberlin College
Md Rumi Shammin, Professor of Environmental Studies, Oberlin College
January
7
Factors that Motivate Cacao Farmers’ Agricultural Decisions in JamundÃ
Minimal literature is available on qualitative aspects of cacao farming in the Americas, specifically in Colombia, a relative newcomer to the international cacao market. This study will use surveys and interviews to uncover influencing factors in cacao agriculture in the Afro-Colombian community of JamundÃ.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Kelsey Foster, Student, The Evergreen State College, Master of Environmental Studies program
January
7
Spatial Distribution of Forest Products Manufacturers in North Carolina
This study examined and provides knowledge on the spatial distribution of forest products manufacturers, major business hotspots, potential business clusters, and factors influencing the location of forest products manufacturers’ in North Carolina State.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Olakunle Sodiya, Graduate Student, Graduate Research Assistant, North Carolina State University
January
7
Microbial Diversity and Antibiotic Production of Tree Hole Ecosystems
Antibiotic resistance and lack of novel antibiotics is a public health issue. In this study, we identified 10 antibiotic-producing bacterial isolates from tree hole water. This study demonstrates that various microenvironments should be considered when investigating for novel producers.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Jessica Charles, Student, Long Island University - Brooklyn
January
7
Initial Assessment of Soil Antibiotic-Producing Bacteria in a Large, Urban Park
Discovery of new antibiotics is needed to combat antibiotic resistance. We found that habitat type had a significant influence on antibiotic producing bacteria in a large urban park. This study demonstrated that examining a wide range of source locations is needed for novel antibiotic discovery.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Minna Abdelaziz, Student, Long Island University Brooklyn
Aman Kaur, Student, Long Island University Brooklyn
Engy Dous, Student, Long Island University Brooklyn
Sarah Saji, Student, Long Island University Brooklyn
January
7
Reducing Dining’s Carbon Foodprint at Penn State
Diet is an often unrecognized, but large contributor to our carbon footprint. This project studies Residential Dining at Penn State University. It explores strategies to lower the carbon footprint through dining choices centered around more plant-based foods, sourcing food locally, reducing food waste, and using alternative materials for to-go containers.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Divya Jain, Student, Pennsylvania State University
January
7
Showcasing Diverse Voices for Ocean Research and Solutions With ArcGIS StoryMaps
To reach solutions that address ocean challenges, there is a need for connections across generations, cultures, and disciplines. ArcGIS StoryMaps compile current research for educating and mobilizing citizen engagement. View at: https://bit.ly/thepowerofconnections
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Isabella Briseño, Student, Pennsylvania State University
Laura Guertin, Professor of Earth Science, Pennsylvania State University
January
7
Getting Out of Hot Water: Moving STEM Education Ideas to Actions
STEM education can be a catalyst for improving student understanding of global environmental change. Enhancing environmental science coursework with information literacy, project-based learning, and campus-wide events such as recruitment and training workshops has increased students’ success and an overall interest in climate.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Pamela Fletcher, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Broward College
Elena Lazovaskaia-Hall, STEM Librarian, Broward College
Kristin Kroger, Outreach Librarian, Broward College
Michelle Almonte, Senior Specialist Curriculum Support, Broward College
Michael Timm, Environmental Education Regional Partner
Brittany Valera, Lead Coordinator Career Center, Broward College
Derek Beaudoin, Instructional Technologist, Broward College
William Mach, Environmental Science Student, Broward College
Emily Surmont, Alumnus of the Broward College Environmental Science Programs, Broward College
Jon Groover, Senior Coordinator, Tigertail Lake Center
January
7
Oxybenzone Sunscreen Alters Stress and Behavioral Patterns in Sheepshead Minnows
Oxybenzone sunscreen alters cortisol levels and behavioral patterns in Sheepshead Minnows. Minnows were exposed to varying doses of oxybenzone sunscreen and monitored for abnormal swimming/feeding behavior. Study found that sheepshead minnows elicit a physical and hormonal response to oxybenzones.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Kalle Simpson, Undergraduate Student, North Carolina State University
January
7
Ocean Acidification and South Florida’s Coral Reefs
Ocean acidification results from increased anthropogenic atmospheric carbon dioxide absorbed by the world’s oceans. This produces a chemical reaction resulting in lower pH and increases acidity of ocean water. Calcifying marine organisms such as coral reefs are being affected by changes in the water chemistry.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Lauren Camden, Student, Broward College
January
7
Exploring the Adoption of Hemp as a Sustainable Agricultural Crop in Nebraska
Hemp cultivation became legal for the first time in nearly a century and has the capacity to improve sustainable agricultural systems. Fifteen first-year hemp farmers were interviewed to explore the diffusion of hemp in the Midwest and to document perceived challenges and success.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Christine Rost, Student, Doane University
Bailey Gasseling, Student, Doane University
Blake Colclasure, Assistant Professor, Doane University
January
7
Investigating Mineral Precipitation and Dissolution During CO2 Injection
This research investigates the physical and chemical changes that take place in the subsurface during CO2 sequestration. The major objectives were to efficiently store away CO2 and observe deformations in the sediment pile.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Varsha Swaminathan, Undergraduate Student, Pennsylvania State University
John Hooker, Assistant Teaching Professor, Pennsylvania State University
January
7
COVID, Climate, and the Politics of Gender (I)
At the state level in the U.S., populations who elect female governors are also more likely to understand or respect scientific results, and thus respond behaviorally with precautions to avoid COVID-19.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Kailee Atkinson, Student, Lehigh University
Dork Sahagian, Ph.D., Professor of Earth & Environmental Science, Lehigh University
January
7
Building a Call to Action for Science and Solutions in New Virtual Communities
Students play a valuable role in assisting informal education efforts involving technology, such as compiling podcast listening lists and questions for virtual discussions. The continued teaching of environmental topics left community members online wanting to be involved in environmental advocacy.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Dallas Barber, Former NCSE Student Podcaster/Undergraduate Research Ambassador, Pennsylvania State University
Laura Guertin, Professor of Earth Science, Pennsylvania State University
Karen Theveny, Assistant Teaching Professor of Communications, Pennsylvania State University
January
7
Has Transportation Behavior Changed After COVID-19? Is This a Permanent Change?
This exploratory research is relevant: it will determine if our personal transportation behavior after COVID-19 affected carbon emissions. We will better understand which of these changes of behavior will remain after the COVID-19 crisis is over. Learn more- https://arcg.is/jfazD.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Paula Gallegos, Student, Dallas College- Cedar Valley Campus
Tiffany Vuong, Student, Dallas College- Cedar Valley Campus
Susan Dallas, Student, Dallas College- Cedar Valley Campus
Donna Duong, Student, Dallas College- Cedar Valley Campus
Thea Loza, Student, Dallas College- Cedar Valley Campus
January
7
Turning Over a New Leaf: Increasing Accessibility to Urban Parks Through Creative Land Use and Infrastructure Solutions
During the COVID-19 pandemic, urban parks have provided one of the few safe venues for recreation and social interaction in cities. We propose that under-used lands in cities can be developed into urban parks, and access to existing parks can be enhanced through creative infrastructure solutions.
Thematic Pathway
Presenters
Jacqueline Weber, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College
Hilary Wright, Student, Sir Sandford Fleming College