Nicolas Katz On Jumping Headfirst Into Conservation and Climate Justice

Feb. 7, 2022
Nicolas Katz headshot

What is your major/year?

I am a senior double majoring in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Natural Resource Management with an emphasis in Conservation Biology and a Marine Science minor. 

What are you involved in on campus or in Tucson?

I am currently engaged with Defenders of Wildlife, UAZDivest, the EarthGrant program through the Arizona Institutes for Resilience, and research with the Arnold Lab in the School of Plant Sciences. In the past I've been involved with Students for Sustainability, the Society for Ecological Restoration, Tucson Village Farm, UA Fish and Wildlife Societies, the Marine Awareness and Conservation Society, STEMCats, Environmental Professionals of Arizona, Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program, and other research groups on campus.  

What environmental issues are you most passionate about?

 I am most passionate about environmental and climate justice and equity. The advocacy I most appreciate forefronts the intersectionality of environmental and social issues. 

What is the most valuable thing about pursuing an environment-related degree at UArizona?

UArizona has an amazing set of esteemed environmental and natural science researchers and extension professionals that are passionate about making the next generation of environmental professionals well-suited to tackle important issues. This is an invaluable resource to students seeking to make change and grow professionally. 

What is your favorite trail in Tucson?

For a quick run - painted hills (pup friendly), for a long hike - any way up to Wrightson peak. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in climate activism on our campus?

Climate (or any social/environmental) activism is really about building community, but finding these communities can be really daunting if you're not already plugged in. My biggest piece of advice is to go unabashedly into activism spaces. They need you, and will always be better off with you than without you.