This month, audiences can screen Net Zero Speaks with Alexis Abramson on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is curated by the Protect Our Planet Movement and Planet Classroom.
In this youth-driven Net Zero Speaks episode, Dr. Alexis Abramson – Dean of the Columbia Climate School and a leading voice in sustainable energy and climate technology – shares her vision for a new model of climate education focused on interdisciplinary learning and real-world impact.
Hosted by Sahil Soni of the POP Movement, Abramson explores how artificial intelligence and smart building efficiency can accelerate climate solutions, why equity in STEM and clean energy access is essential, and how climate entrepreneurship is transforming the way we fight the climate crisis. Produced by Sergio Castaneda.
The Global Search for Education is pleased to welcome Sahil Soni.
Sahil, why did you decide to interview Dean Abramson?
I chose to interview Dean Alexis Abramson because she represents a powerful combination of climate leadership, engineering expertise, and a deep commitment to inclusive education. As Dean of Dartmouth’s Thayer School of Engineering and now Columbia’s Climate School, she brings a forward-thinking vision to tackling the climate crisis. What inspired me most was her focus on human-centered engineering and her efforts to diversify and democratize STEM education.
What surprised you most about your interview?
What surprised me was how deeply she believes in cross-disciplinary collaboration. She made it clear that solving climate change requires more than technology—it demands social understanding, empathy, and smart policymaking. Our conversation challenged me to think more holistically about solutions and reminded me that innovation must be rooted in inclusion and compassion. It was a personal lesson in leadership.
What are the three main takeaways for the Net Zero audience from your interview with Dean Abramson?
First, universities aren’t just places to learn — they’re launching pads for real climate solutions. Second, diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords; they actually drive better ideas and innovation. And third, if we want real-world impact, we’ve got to connect science with smart policy. Dean Abramson’s message left a strong impression on me: we need to lead with purpose, work together across disciplines, and never lose sight of the people at the heart of climate solutions. No matter your background, there’s a role for you in shaping a more sustainable world.
C. M. Rubin and Sahil Soni
Don’t Miss Net Zero Speaks with Alexis Abramson, now streaming on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is curated by the Protect Our Planet Movement and Planet Classroom.
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