Emily Merlot is a dedicated advocate for equitable urban development and climate action. With a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a minor in Philosophy with an ethics concentration from Hollins University, Emily works to possess a holistic understanding of the intricate relationship between the environment and society.

Currently pursuing a Master's in Climate Science and Policy at Bard College, their thesis will investigate approaches to including socioeconomic and justice-oriented considerations in municipal initiatives to combat urban heat island (UHI) in order to identify best practices and help readers understand pathways for integrating equity into UHI-adaptation and mitigation strategies.