Welcome! In this literature seminar (Fall 2021), we will discuss a suite of contentious conservation issues, exploring different sides of the scientific debate surrounding these issues and exploring feedbacks among science, policy, management, and public perceptions. The objective of the class is to encourage students to think critically about the science behind conservation issues and be aware of the complex manner in which conservation issues are communicated across scientists, decision makers, and the public.
The class will be divided into four topic sessions:
Global fisheries: ecological disturbance regime versus food system
Greening cities: what is the scope for green infrastructure in urban biodiversity conservation
What counts as ‘conserved’? Moving Biden’s 30×30 commitment from aspiration to action
Arctic Ocean: is sustainable management possible in the new frontier?
Check the Updates page for current discussion topics and readings. Articles, observations, and ideas from class participants will be posted on the From the Class page. Access the course syllabus here.