Land Systems and Sustainability

Catalog description

This course delves into the critical role of land systems in addressing global sustainability crises. Recognizing the profound impact of land use on specific areas such as deforestation, urban sprawl, and agricultural practices, it is grounded in the concept of transformative change - defined as a comprehensive, system-wide reorganization of land systems. This reorganization includes shifts in paradigms, goals, and values related to land use. Students will examine case studies on issues such as land degradation and biodiversity loss to explore the multi-dimensional nature of land systems changes, emphasizing the need for actions that integrate local and global objectives. Through multiple writing exercises and discussions, we will re-imagine land use strategies to better organize our communities, institutions, and societies for sustainable outcomes amidst future uncertainties.