Down to Earth: Intersectionality in Remote Sensing
Apr 17, 2021
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Alyssa Whitcraft, a deputy director at NASA Harvest and an associate research professor, dives into the intersection of remote sensing and social justice. She discusses the urgent need to address food security and climate change through an intersectional lens. Alyssa shares her personal struggles with depression and postpartum anxiety, framing them within her work in geoscience. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating social science insights to combat biases in data interpretation and advocates for supportive workplace policies for women and caregivers.
Incorporating intersectionality in geoscience is essential for addressing justice and equity in tackling climate change and food security.
The challenges faced by working mothers in academia highlight the need for systemic changes to support women's participation in STEM fields.
Deep dives
Topsoil Loss and Agricultural Practices
The alarming rate of topsoil loss, equating to the size of 30 soccer fields per minute, underscores the crucial importance of sustainable agricultural practices. Experts express concern that if current trends continue, the world could face a topsoil shortage in just 55 years. The integration of remote sensing technology offers promise in monitoring and analyzing the effects of various agricultural methods on soil health, thereby enhancing the understanding of human interaction with ecosystems. This emphasis on technology can help foster better land management strategies that are essential for mitigating soil degradation and ensuring food security.
Intersectionality and Food Security
The interplay of social justice and climate justice is vital in addressing food security issues globally. Even though there is sufficient food production to nourish everyone, systemic barriers and disparities hinder equitable access to nutrition. Recognizing that agricultural practices can either exacerbate or alleviate climate change further emphasizes the need for policies that prioritize eco-friendly methodologies. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate food security needs but also seeks to establish long-term sustainable practices that protect the environment and promote biodiversity.
Advocacy for Women and Work-Life Balance
The challenges faced by working mothers in academia highlight the need for systemic change to support women's roles in STEM fields. Advocating for dependent care grants at universities facilitates the participation of women in research and professional development, thereby directly alleviating financial burdens associated with childcare. This initiative reflects a broader intent to dismantle barriers and create a more inclusive environment for all marginalized groups within the scientific community. Ultimately, fostering an inclusive atmosphere not only enhances diverse representation but also enriches the scientific discourse by incorporating varied perspectives and experiences.
For geoscientists who address issues such as food security and climate change, incorporating an intersectional approach is essential. That’s why Dr. Alyssa Whitcraft makes intersectionality a cornerstone of her research. In this episode, we discuss how concepts of justice and equity can be woven into geoscience work
Content Warning: This episode includes mentions of depression and postpartum anxiety. Our guest shares some of her experiences in these areas while on her journey in geoscience. Please listen with care!
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