The Northeast Florida Sierra Club presents its annual Sierra Symposium, The Power of One: What One Person Can Do to Impact Climate Change, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., March 29, 2025,  at Tree Hill Nature Center. This free event will offer practical, science-backed strategies for individuals to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Keynote speaker Allen Tilley, Ph.D., a retired professor from the University of North Florida, will discuss the Planetary Health Diet, a research-backed approach that promotes a plant-based diet with moderate meat and dairy consumption. Developed by Harvard scientists, this diet is recognized for optimizing personal health while significantly reducing global carbon emissions in alignment with the Paris Agreement’s sustainability goals.

Additional speakers will expand on essential climate-friendly actions. Rhonda Gracie, horticulturist at the UNF Botanical Gardens, will share insights into the environmental benefits of native plants. Logan Cross, chair of the Northeast Florida Sierra Club, will present Renew Jax, an initiative promoting sustainable energy solutions in the Jacksonville area. Attendees will also learn about food waste reduction and its substantial impact on climate change.

Exhibits will provide further resources on the discussed topics, and native plants will be available for purchase. A guided hike through the Tree Hill Nature Center will follow the presentations.