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On Campus

Social Entrepreneurship, Policy, and Innovation in the Water Industry

A series of talks at the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies this semester will engage in a critical dialogue about a water crisis that is currently gripping the western U.S.
 
A record-breaking drought continues to devastate Western states for the fourth consecutive year; Historically dry conditions in California, in particular, have resulted in dangerously low lake levels, destructive wildfires, and significant agricultural losses. This water crisis presents incredible challenges for western states, especially as climate models project reduced rainfall and hotter temperatures, and as human demand for water continues to increase.
 
To promote the conversation about this crisis, three F&ES student interest groups — Fresh & Salty, Westies, and Climate Change — will host a semester-long speaker series titled Drought: Solutions for Scarcity. This series, supported by SAC Big Ticket and The Class of 1980 Fund, addresses how organizations, governments, and companies are responding to increased water scarcity and shaping a more resilient future through sustainable water use. Five speakers representing a range of expertise in water management and policy will visit Yale to share their vision of a sustainable water future.

In this second talk of the series, FES/SOM alum Peter Yolles will discuss his experience as founder of WaterSmart Software, the role of innovation in addressing water scarcity challenges, and the importance of policy in driving innovation in efficiency solutions.

Speakers

Peter Yolles

Founder and Chief Policy Officer at WaterSmart Software
MBA 1997
Master of Environmental Management 1997