3C @ 3B: Climate, community & conversations

A public lecture series hosted by Triple Bottom Brewing, focused on local climate and sustainability research and advocacy opportunities in Philadelphia.

Climate, community & conversations is a space for education, engagement, and community building around climate and sustainability challenges. Everyone is welcome to join this conversation, learn about the latest in research and help bring the value of this learning and problem solving out into the community.

TripleC @ TripleB: Multi-Use Solar Energy in Urban Environments

We will hear from Temple Associate Professor, Dr. Sujith Ravi and Temple Ph.D. Candidate, Caroline Merheb, as they discuss their research on multi-use solar energy with a focus on combining solar energy production with agriculture (agrivoltaics) practices. Following this research presentation, we will be joined by Micah Cold-Markel with Solar States, to discuss their work and experience on solar education and installation in the Philadelphia region.

The speakers will deliver short informal lectures followed by an audience Q & A on this important and timely topic.

Questions? Contact caroline.burkholder@temple.edu or rebecca.beadling@temple.edu.

About Caroline
Caroline Merheb is PhD Candidate in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Temple University. A civil engineer by training, her research focuses on designing and implementing multifunctional landscapes that support renewable energy production, agriculture, and community benefits in urban areas. Caroline recently won an international student design competition for her innovative urban agrivoltaic project, which addresses the interconnected challenges of food access, climate resilience, and the creation of vibrant community spaces. Her work has been published in high-impact journals such as Nature Sustainability and Energy Policy.

About Sujith
Sujith Ravi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Temple University, where he leads interdisciplinary research at the intersection of land, water, climate, and sustainability. His work explores how human activity and natural disturbances — from agriculture to wildfires — shape our soil, water, and vegetation, and what that means for building a more resilient food and energy future. He holds a PhD in Environmental Sciences (Hydrology) from the University of Virginia and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University’s Center on Food Security and the Environment. He’s a recipient of the prestigious NSF CAREER Award and has been honored for excellence in scientific scholarship, peer review, and mentoring. His research has been featured in leading journals such as Global Change Biology, Nature Sustainability, Nature, Journal of Geophysical Research, and Water Resources Research. Dr. Ravi also serves as Associate Editor for two major scientific journals: Journal of Geophysical Research: Earth Surface and Ecosphere.

About Micah
Micah Gold-Markel, distinguished as Solar Power World's 2022 Top Solar Changemaker, has established himself as an entrepreneurial force and a community stalwart in the solar energy sector of Philadelphia. His company, Solar States, a certified B-Corporation, stands as a testament to his dual-mission of addressing environmental issues while revitalizing the local economy with sustainable jobs. His collaborative efforts with organizations like PowerCorps PHL, Philadelphia OIC, the Energy Coordinating Agency, and the Philadelphia Energy Authority have led to the creation of numerous educational pathways, from hands-on installation training to solar technology sales and design, ensuring that the solar workforce is as diverse as it is skilled. Micah is a licensed & certified master electrician in Delaware, New Jersey, and Philadelphia, IREC Master Trainer, and NABCEP PV Installation Professional.

About Triple Bottom Brewing

Triple Bottom Brewing's mission is to create moments of joy and connection that inspire and empower us all to craft a better future for our planet and for one another.

They are a fair chance business, and intentionally seek to hire people and work together with their nonprofit partners. Triple Bottom is also committed to decreasing their consumption and negative environmental impact whenever possible. Read more about their waste diversion program.

Questions? Contact caroline.burkholder@temple.edu or rebecca.beadling@temple.edu.