People learn more about how the climate crisis is impacting people across the state and to hear about potential solutions.

MADISON - On Wednesday evening, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes hosted the fifth and final listening session of the Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change via video teleconference.

The task force held the virtual listening sessions in order to learn more about how the climate crisis is impacting people across the state and to hear about potential solutions the state should adopt. Over a thousand Wisconsinites from Superior to Sturgeon Bay to Mazomanie joined Lt. Gov. Barnes and task force members virtually.

“I’m incredibly grateful to the people who took time out of their days to join us for these listening sessions and shape the work of this task force,” said Lt. Gov. Barnes. “People from every corner of the state came forward to share personal stories and make their voices heard, and we’re committed to ensuring their concerns drive our climate solutions.”

The five listening sessions also included expert presentations from organizations and local government leaders working on sustainability, conservation, environmental justice, and renewable energy. Some of the presenters included Deneine C. Powell, Executive Director of Groundwork Milwaukee, Mayor Gordon Ringberg of the City of Bayfield, and Patrick Pelky from the Oneida Nation.

Those who could not attend the virtual listening sessions are encouraged to submit comments, recommendations, and concerns for the task force’s consideration on the task force’s website, ClimateChange.wi.gov. The deadline to submit comments is July 31, 2020.