Two-day environmental summit to address air quality, renewable energy

Desert Healthcare District and Foundation will host a two-day environmental health summit Sept. 11-12 at the Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort and Spa to address air quality, land use and other environmental issues affecting the Coachella Valley.

The free “Healthy Desert, Healthy You” event marks the organization’s second annual summit focused on the connection between environmental conditions and community health. The summit will take place at 71333 Dinah Shore Drive in Rancho Mirage. Day 2 includes visits to a pair of local facilities — Palm Springs Windmill Tours and Desert Water Agency’s hydroelectric plant.

More than 20 experts in environmental protection and health will participate in the first day’s sessions, according to organizers. Topics will include renewable energy, green technology, water quality, air quality, the environmental impact of distribution centers and careers in environmental health.

Andrea Vidaurre, co-founder of People’s Collective for Environmental Justice, will deliver the keynote address at 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 11. Other participants include Susana Carranza, asthma program manager at Vision y Compromiso; Indian Wells Councilman Greg Sanders; climate advocate Ryan Sendejas; and Indio Councilman Oscar Ortiz.

The first day’s agenda features morning and afternoon sessions running concurrently, allowing attendees to choose between different topics. Sessions will be moderated by local media representatives including Jimmy Boegle of CV Independent, Katie Boer of KESQ News Channel 3, and Lauren Del Sarto of Desert Health News.

Topics scheduled for discussion include government responses to environmental health challenges, the Salton Sea restoration and lithium extraction, and youth involvement in environmental action. A vendor expo and art table will be available during the lunch break.

Chris Christensen, CEO of Desert Healthcare District & Foundation, will deliver closing remarks at 4:50 p.m. on the first day.

The second day will feature guided tours of local facilities that demonstrate “regional efforts to improve air and water quality, reduce waste and advance clean energy solutions,” according to the organization’s website.

Two tour routes will run simultaneously, with participants visiting sites including Palm Springs Windmill Tours, Desert Water Agency Hydroelectric Generating Plant, Good Earth Compost Project and Gardens at St. Margaret’s Church, Renova Energy and SunLine Transit Hydrogen Fuel Plant.

Registration is required for the tours as seating is limited. Snacks and water will be provided during the site visits.

The tours will depart at 8:30 a.m. from a designated meeting point and return by 1 p.m.

Registration for the free summit is available at healthydeserthealthyyou.com.

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