January Green Drinks Highlights Financial System's Climate Role

Jan 6, 2026, 3:04 AM
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On January 13th, from 6-8 PM, Park City Gardens will host the January Green Drinks event, focusing on the financial system's critical role in addressing climate change. This gathering aims to educate attendees on eco-friendly finance and investing, emphasizing how financial choices can impact the environment significantly.
The event will feature discussions led by local experts, including Bethany Kanten, Chief Operating Officer of SustainEnergyFinance, and Michael A. Ruzek, an Institutional Consultant at Morgan Stanley. Kanten brings over a decade of experience in climate finance and inclusive economic development, while Ruzek has dedicated his career to providing tailored financial advice to clients.
A key topic will be the role of specialized financial institutions known as Green Banks. These institutions are designed to facilitate investments in sustainable projects, thereby pushing the financial system towards greater support for climate solutions. The discussions will also highlight how individual choices regarding banking and investment portfolios can be pivotal in reducing personal climate footprints.
The financial system is often described as the "invisible engine" that shapes various aspects of society, including housing, energy, and transportation. Billions of dollars flow through this system daily, influencing which projects receive funding and which industries thrive. This makes climate change not just a scientific or technological challenge, but fundamentally a financial one.
Banks play a crucial role in this dynamic. They do not merely hold deposits; they deploy them to finance infrastructure, power plants, and other projects. The decisions made by banks about which projects to support can either perpetuate fossil fuel dependence or foster investments in sustainable alternatives.
The event will also explore how shifting financial flows can unlock a sustainable future. By understanding the impact of their financial choices, individuals can contribute to a broader movement towards sustainability.
Attendees are encouraged to carpool or use public transit to reach the venue, reflecting the event's commitment to eco-friendly practices. Appetizers and beverages will be provided, and the event is restricted to those aged 21 and over.
In summary, the January Green Drinks event will serve as a platform for discussing the intersection of finance and climate change, aiming to empower individuals to make informed financial decisions that support a sustainable future.
This gathering represents an important opportunity for community members to engage with experts and learn how they can play a role in combating climate change through their financial choices.

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