Tonight’s Griffin Policy forum will examine climate change as a solution to Michigan’s struggling economy.

“Can Climate Change Heat Up Michigan’s Economy?” features environmental experts from across the state.

The forum will take place from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in Warriner Hall’s Plachta Auditorium with a reception immediately preceding from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Panelists include Jon Allan, manager of Consumers Energy’s environmental and laboratory services; Lana Pollack, president of the Michigan Environmental Council; Jim Croce, chief executive officer of NextEnergy; and Michael E. Witt, program director of Energy & Climate Change for Dow Chemical Co.

Steven E. Chester, director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, will moderate.

“This is an extremely important issue,” Chester said. “Climate change offers opportunities to save our economy … it’s a great opportunity to diversify Michigan’s economy.”

Griffin Endowed Chair Gary Peters organized the event.

“It’s a debate from the industry about if climate change is real and how we can address it – and is Michigan prepared to take a leadership role,” Peters said. “Now the challenge is for Michigan policymakers to act quickly – other states are looking for ways they can capitalize in the industry. The quicker Michigan can act, the better.”

Topics of discussion include transforming Michigan into a leader in clean energy, mandating a renewable electric standard, creating a climate action plan for Michigan, the cost of climate change and actions state government should take now regarding climate change.

Chester said the Griffin forum is a great way to educate and inform attendees on climate change and the economy.

Muskegon freshman David Breed said the forum is a chance to discuss different things about the politics in cience world.

“The people that come are able to get a unique perspective,” Breed said.

The Griffin Policy forum is a biannual event hosted by the Robert and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government, the College of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences, and the department of political science.

Bay City senior Sarah Cronk said the forum is of interest to her because of her upcoming graduation.

“I am worried about the Michigan economy as a soon-to-be graduate,” Cronk said.

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