Climate Toolkit Symposium Agenda

The Climate Toolkit Symposium 2025 agenda includes an opening reception on the evening of Sunday, Oct 26, and two full days of immersive programming on Monday, Oct 27, and Tuesday, Oct 28.

Opening Evening

SUN., OCT. 26, 6 – 9 P.M.

This welcoming event, held against the backdrop of Phipps Conservatory’s lush Tropical Forest Panama exhibit and Special Events Hall, features an opening address, refreshments, a buffet dinner, live music and networking.

Day 1: Case Studies in Climate Success

MON., OCT. 27, 8:30 A.M. – 5 P.M., DINNER AND KEYNOTE PRESENTATION 6 – 9 P.M.

The first full day of the symposium will be devoted to panel presentations and workshops focusing on a number of climate-related topics including decarbonization and electrification projects, water conservation, green investments, case studies of climate-aligned operations, engagement, public programs and more.

Sustainability tours held during the day will give conference attendees an intimate look at Phipps’ state-of-the-art living buildings, green infrastructure, native landscaping, water retention and recycling systems, LEED-certified production greenhouse, and east-wing decarbonization.

A poster session will also be held, allowing individual organizations to showcase their work.

Breakfast, lunch, and coffee will be provided; after a brief recess at 5 p.m., attendees will reconvene for a buffet dinner and guest keynote presentation in the evening.

Day 2: A Deep Dive Into the Future

TUES., OCT. 28, 8:30 A.M. – 4 P.M.

On Day 2 of the Climate Toolkit Symposium, institutions come together for a collaborative deep dive into the future of climate action within the cultural sector. This day emphasizes shared learning, strategy development, and innovative approaches to sustainability, as museums, gardens, zoos, field stations, science centers and other cultural organizations explore collective pathways towards amplifying our greatest climate impact possible.

Phipps President and CEO Richard Piacentini and the Climate Toolkit team will lead interactive sessions on Regenerative Thinking that push beyond traditional modes of decision-making and leadership structure. The schedule will include time for breakout groups to work on climate-related projects or to create institutional climate action plans.

Through focused discussions and workshops, participants will envision a resilient, climate-conscious future, grounded in cross-sector collaboration and bold institutional leadership.

Breakfast, lunch, and coffee will be provided.

Your $150 admission ticket includes full symposium admission and all food and beverages. The Climate Toolkit Symposium is immediately followed by the Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums Annual Conference, also in Pittsburgh – we encourage interested attendees to extend their stay and join both events.

Questions? Contact alampl@phipps.conservatory.org or call 412-622-6915, ext. 6752