Student’s research trip to UN climate change conference

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Written by:

Paul Holland

Posted:

06 Dec 2023

Laura Espinoza is travelling to COP 28 in Dubai as part of her research into indigenous land conservation, sovereignty and climate change.

The postgraduate grew up in Washington DC, so political engagement is something she’s well used to. Her research into Environmental Policy will look at how engagement with indigenous communities within the USA can help environmental use o f land: so a chance to go to the United Nations’ COP to see how the international community plans to tackle climate change is a dream come true and something she hopes will directly benefit her research.

We spoke to the 23-year-old Land Economy postgraduate ahead of her travels to the COP. Laura’s trip has been part-funded by Trinity Hall’s Mona de Piro Fund and other research-related funding.

Why are you interested in the COP and what do you hope this one will achieve?

I have always wanted to go! And now I am writing my dissertation on Indigenous land conservation and land sovereignty, and COPs provide an amazing platform for meeting environmental practitioners from around the world.

One of the major restrictions of getting there is obtaining a pass, but thanks to the University of Cambridge I was able to obtain one (via the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership). Another issue of course is the expense! Even though the UK is closer to Dubai than Washington is, I would have had to put a lot on credit cards to get there. Fortunately Trinity Hall has been wonderful in providing funding.

I’m so excited to be attending panels and events hosted by indigenous activists and organizations, as well as have the opportunity to grow my own network as I learn more about solidarity within native climate struggles around the world.

What is it about your subject that you love?

I love that I’m learning new tools and techniques of environmental law, policy, and economics that I can bring back into my professional life. It’s been amazing to learn from my classmates who come from countries all around the world and to be inspired to continue fighting for environmental justice alongside them.

What is the best part of College life for you?

The best part of College life is getting to meet friends who are studying things wildly different to myself. We can always come to Trinity Hall for a meal, sit by the river, or hang out in the MCR. I feel the community in Trinity Hall is one of the strongest ones at the University.

What attracted you to Trinity Hall?

I appreciate the separation from school and home that I get by living in Wychfield site but still having a home base at Central Site. I also love Trinity Hall’s history, traditions, and supportive community spirit.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of your studies?

I am a voracious reader, but in Cambridge, I’ve started doing much more yoga and exploring coffee shops across town. One unique thing I took up this term was Scottish reeling with the Caledonian Society!

What’s your favourite film/book/ cultural phenomenon?

My current favourite book is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, which is one of many books on indigenous ecological knowledge and awareness I’ve been reading to prepare for my dissertation.

How do you balance academic life with personal commitments?

Spending time with my course mates means I’m always learning even when I’m outside of the classroom. I also am incredibly intentional about my study and social time, so I try to be as efficient as possible to be able to be fully present when it comes to my friends on campus.