Storie

Living in the Anthropocene: Climate Change and its Ripple Effects

Exploring Climate Realities, Inspiring Collective Action Across the CIVIS Alliance

Living in the Anthropocene: Climate Change and its Ripple Effects is a two-phase CIVIS Student-Led Project and international conference that brings together student associations from five CIVIS universities: the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aix-Marseille University, the University of Bucharest, the University of Glasgow, and the University of Tübingen.

A civically engaged project

A civically engaged project

Conceived as a hybrid initiative, the project combines digital collaboration with immersive, in-person engagement, creating a dynamic platform for transnational dialogue on climate change and its multifaceted consequences.

The first phase (October 1, 2025 – May 14, 2026) unfolds online. Each university team selects a climate-related issue that directly affects its local context—environmental degradation, public health implications, social inequalities, or economic disruption—and investigates how climate change manifests on the ground. Students translate their findings into accessible, creative formats, with a strong emphasis on Instagram mini-documentaries. These short reels blend scientific insight, interviews, storytelling, and on-site footage, transforming research into compelling public communication.

The second phase culminates in a three-day in-person conference in Athens (May 15th–17th, 2026, 10:00–19:00 EST). Designed as an immersive academic and experiential event, it features expert seminars on climate science, health, ecology, and sustainability; guided nature walks in ecological sites; visits to the Department of Biology’s museums; and a dedicated botanical garden tour exploring biodiversity and ecosystem functions. By bridging scientific rigor with experiential learning, the conference deepens understanding while making biosciences visible and accessible to a broader audience.

Who We Are: The International Student Alliance

Living in the Anthropocene is driven by a coalition of student associations and interdisciplinary teams:

  • BioGene – National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece)
    The first bioscientific student association of NKUA’s Department of Biology, BioGene promotes science communication, ecological awareness, and public engagement through seminars, workshops, and conferences.
  • GUEST – University of Glasgow (United Kingdom)
    The Glasgow University Environmental Sustainability Team works across thematic branches to improve campus sustainability, promote climate action and social justice, and coordinate practical environmental initiatives.
  • SENS – Aix-Marseille Université (France)
    Linked to the Master’s in Scientific Mediation, SENS specializes in environmental communication and biodiversity awareness, fostering an accessible and positive image of science.
  • Klimareduktion Team – University of Tübingen (Germany)
    A sustainability-focused student team contributing research-based approaches and local environmental perspectives.
  • University of Bucharest (Romania)
    A team of engaged students offering interdisciplinary insights and local research support on climate-related challenges.

From local to global

Originally initiated by BioGene at NKUA, the project expanded through the CIVIS Alliance into a self-structured, student-driven international collaboration. While aligned with CIVIS priorities—sustainability, education, and cross-border cooperation—this initiative stands as an original, autonomous effort shaped entirely by student vision and coordination.

Main Audience & Participation

We believe that young minds are the driving force of societal change

The project primarily addresses undergraduate and postgraduate students from diverse disciplines who share an interest in ecology, climate science, public health, and sustainability. However, participation is not limited to CIVIS students: online events are open to a wider public audience.

Participation is accessible through:

  • A dedicated application form shared across CIVIS offices and promoted via Instagram (@anthropocene_civis).
  • Open access to webinars, workshops, and digital activities during the online phase.
  • Direct attendance at the Athens conference for those wishing to engage in person.

The project’s hybrid structure ensures multiple entry points, allowing individuals to engage at the level and format that best suits them.

Motivation & Social Impact

Our objective is simple and threefold: educate, raise awareness, and inspire action. In an era where human activity profoundly shapes planetary systems, understanding climate change is no longer optional—it is essential. Living in the Anthropocene emerged from our collective determination to confront environmental challenges not with resignation, but with curiosity, collaboration, and hope.

Participants gain first-hand exposure to ongoing research and environmental realities. Through expert lectures, interactive workshops, and experiential learning activities, they are not passive listeners but active contributors. The project transforms climate discourse into shared responsibility—inviting every participant to move from awareness to engagement.

Beyond knowledge, the initiative strengthens transnational networks, enhances science communication through transmedia storytelling, and demonstrates the role of universities as civic actors committed to sustainability and public dialogue.

Practical Information

  • Dates: October 1, 2025 – May 17, 2026
    • Online Phase: October 1 – May 14
    • Athens Conference: May 15 – May 17 (10:00–19:00 EST)
  • Format: Hybrid (Online & Onsite in Athens)
  • Language: English

For further information:
General e-mail: civis.anthropocene@gmail.com
Instagram account: @anthropocene_civis

Project Coordinator

  • Dimitrios Mostratos
  • Email