Experts from across academia, state and federal regulatory agencies, industry, and non-profits led discussions about a wide range of timely topics including the Clean Power Plan, the new national ozone standard, biofuels, energy use for transportation and in buildings, and the potential for the use of satellite data in supporting air quality regulation. The Summit featured speakers and panelists with highly diverse viewpoints and areas of expertise.

Keynote speaker Susan Hedman, a three-time graduate of UW–Madison and Regional Administrator of the EPA’s Region 5 Office in Chicago, launched the Summit with a thorough review of the Clean Power Plan. During the follow-up panel, diverse opinions were in full view as top attorneys Sean Donahue and Todd Palmer addressed the Plan’s many implications.

“I believe the university serves a unique role in supporting discussions, even difficult ones, that cut across values, politics, and beliefs,” says Holloway. “All participants heard some speakers that resonated with their personal beliefs as well as some who challenged those beliefs. These kinds of discussions, among regulators, industry, environmentalists, and researchers, are rare and yet absolutely essential for a sustainable future.”