Course Description

This course introduces some of the critical environmental problems with which various groups, including scientists and policy makers, have struggled, including climate change, industrial pollution, waste management, and species decline. 

The purpose of the course is to introduce key disciplines in environmental science, along with their methodologies and approaches to knowledge production; to examine the relationship between environmental science and public policy, both historically and in the present day; and to encourage critical analysis and evaluation of potential approaches to environmental problem solving, with an emphasis on systems thinking.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participant will be able to:

• Learn about key concepts and disciplines in environmental science
• Examine critical environmental problems, including climate change, industrial pollution, waste management, and species decline
• Analyze the relationship between environmental science and public policy
• Encourage critical analysis and evaluation of potential approaches to environmental problem-solving
• Emphasize systems thinking as a method for addressing complex environmental challenges.

Who Can Benefit

Students and professionals in fields related to environmental science, policy-making, and sustainability, as well as anyone interested in gaining a foundational understanding of environmental challenges and potential solutions.