Events

Rally to keep the Academy of Natural Sciences open

The institution plays a vital role in educating the public about science and climate change.

The Academy of Natural Sciences announced the closure of the public-facing museum earlier this week. The United Nations reported on Wednesday that the Earth will exceed the long-held 1.5-degree global warming threshold in the next few years.

For almost 200 years, the Academy of Natural Sciences has been dedicated to understanding the natural world and inspiring everyone to care for it.

At a time when climate change and science continue to be under attack, Philadelphia cannot afford to lose another institution that connects people to the natural world. From initiatives like Plastic Free Philly to Academy Town Halls that bring people together to discuss climate challenges, along with exhibits that make science accessible to the public, the Academy plays a critical role in our city.

This is an institution Philadelphia can’t afford to lose.

Green Philly is joining Philly Science Action and Skype a Scientist invite the people of Philadelphia to join us for a rally on Tuesday, September 8th to ask Drexel University to keep the Academy of Natural Sciences Museum open to the public past September 2026.

Find out more info here.

The rally may be passed but the work is just getting started. Visit Save the Academy for the latest information.

Green Philly has partnered with the Academy of Natural Sciences over the past years, including hosting SustainPHL, a members tour of the Botany of Nations and Lewis and Clark exhibits, and hosted our Climate Mayoral Forum there.

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

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