The 2026 SALA-Duke Summit on Climate and Sustainability focused on creating better lives through clean air, water, housing, and resilient communities. This event, held over two days in May, brought together more than 100 leaders, researchers, and advocates. They sought ways to build sustainable and equitable futures.
Michael S. Regan, former U.S. EPA Administrator, kicked off the summit with a fireside chat alongside Toddi Steelman, Duke University’s vice president for climate and sustainability. Regan emphasized the need to connect local communities and investors, stating, “Main Street and Wall Street need to come together.” He highlighted that the effects of climate change are prompting urgent conversations around everyday issues like housing, poverty, and health.
During the summit, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Trymaine Lee discussed the deep-rooted connections between historical injustices and environmental issues. For example, Lee visited a farm in northern Durham that was once a slave plantation but is now a hub for sustainable agriculture. He remarked on how historical exploitation of land relates to current environmental harm.
Catherine Coleman Flowers, an environmental justice advocate, shared her perspective on the importance of community resilience when facing environmental crises. “We are all in harm’s way,” she said, asserting that understanding each other’s experiences is vital for finding solutions.
Chapel Hill Mayor Jessica Anderson discussed how local communities often suffer the most during disasters, stressing that resilience must be built from within. “In the end, resilience is built or lost on the local level,” she noted. This view was echoed by panelists from various sectors, who argued that true resilience cannot be imported and must be fostered through local partnerships.
Recent studies reveal that low-income communities are disproportionately affected by climate events. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), areas with fewer resources often experience more significant disasters, as they lack infrastructure and funding to recover effectively.
Corporate leaders also discussed their roles in sustainability. Laura Kohler from Kohler Co. emphasized that companies benefit from integrating sustainable practices into their operations. “When investors see real savings, they’re likely to keep investing,” she explained. Rob Coviello, an agribusiness executive, added that sustainability should be part of every business decision, not a standalone initiative.
Throughout the summit, the message was clear: better communities can emerge from collaboration and innovative thinking. Steelman summarized the discussions, stating, “Climate will amplify the societal and economic challenges we face. To find lasting solutions, we need to connect through our shared humanity.”
By recognizing the interconnectedness of climate issues and community well-being, participants aim to inspire a new wave of resilience and equity in addressing environmental challenges.
