Climate Change, Marine Conservation and Coastal Management

Catalog description

This course engages students with the challenge of ethically managing the human-coastal interface in the age of the anthropocene. Using an experiential case study-based approach that combines site visits with guest speakers, key readings, documentaries, class discussions and workshops, students are introduced to diverse local ecosystems and the pressures they face from various practices associated with unsustainable economic models. While the Page 179 Catalog 2025 - 2026 impact of climate change plays a central role, other issues such as plastic pollution, mangrove destruction, overfishing and agricultural runoff are also considered in their impacts on marine ecosystems. While developing an understanding of these threats, students will also study models of successful marine conservation initiatives, including the importance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge in protecting habitats and sustainably managing marine resources. Throughout the course, students develop the tools, vision and capacity to campaign and work collaboratively with local communities to achieve positive outcomes for both people and planet.