Opening Plenary
Fireside Chat: Dr. Sean Decatur, President of the American Museum of Natural History
Thursday, November 58:30 – 9:45
About This Session
Dr. Sean Decatur, President of the American Museum of Natural History, brings a scientist’s perspective and the long view of a major public institution to a room full of energy professionals. The conversation examines where science, public trust, and long-horizon thinking intersect with the decisions the energy industry is making right now.
Key Questions Explored
- How does a scientist’s perspective on deep time and systems change the way we think about the energy transition?
- Where does public trust in science and institutions shape what energy leaders can credibly say?
- What does the long view reveal about the pace and direction of the transition that short-term planning tends to miss?
- How can the energy industry communicate more effectively with a public that is watching closely but often skeptical?
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