Host ( Kelly Barraza ): Welcome to the ASHRAE Journal podcast . I ' m Kelly Barraza , managing editor . Ginger , your presidential theme for 2023 / 24 is ‘ Challenge accepted , tackling the climate crisis ’. Can you share why you chose this theme ?

Scoggins : You know , Kelly , it just felt like the right time to address the issues we ' re facing with greenhouse gas ( GHG ) emissions from the built environment . We decided it was time to tackle this head-on . We discussed various options and concluded that this theme was the best way to let our members know that we are committed to preparing them for the coming changes in our industry .

Host : I understand you also initiated a decarbonisation challenge for young engineers . Could you share more about the goals of this challenge ?

Scoggins : The goal is to encourage our chapters to think about decarbonising buildings at the local level , impacting their

communities . It ' s not just about society-level efforts ; we want chapters and regions to collaborate with industry and non-profits to make a difference in their areas .

Host : ASHRAE has been collaborating with various associations . I recall the 2023 decarbonisation conference . Can you share your experiences spreading the message globally ?

Scoggins : My presidential speech outlines what ASHRAE is doing to prepare our members for the climate crisis . It educates them on how buildings contribute to GHG emissions and what steps they can take . I ' ve noticed varied reactions based on location and age groups . Young engineers seem engaged , but older individuals may have more scepticism , especially in areas tied to oil and gas .

Host : Has your experience differed based on the locations you ' ve visited ?

Scoggins : It varies by region , especially in areas tied to oil and gas , where there

might be more pushback . It ' s fascinating to see the diverse reactions and perspectives , and my role is to spread the message and encourage people to accept the challenge .

Host : You mentioned in your speech the challenge of navigating regulations and government directives pushing for environmental responsibility . How do you address this in your consulting work at engineer design , particularly when budgets and interests may clash ?

Scoggins : Regulations and government directives are indeed significant concerns , especially as the push for environmental responsibility intensifies . In my consulting work , we always grapple with budget constraints and differing owner priorities . Each project is unique , and we work to understand the owner ' s focus , whether it ' s on building emissions , ESG ( Environment , Social and Governance ), or other aspects . Meeting people where they are is crucial . If an owner isn ' t engaged in the climate

ASHRAE President , Ginger Scoggins .

Supplied by ASHRAE