Human and Planetary Health

Catalog description

What happens when we treat nature as an inexhaustible resource? A health crisis of planetary dimensions. Global warming, biodiversity loss, pollution, unsustainable food systems, and changing disease ecology impact both human lives and the natural systems that support them. The field of human and planetary health seeks solutions that sustain nature while supporting human health. This survey course highlights the complex interconnections between environment and health and demonstrates how an interdisciplinary, multisectoral approach can help define a path forward. Through lectures, discussions, and interactive exercises, students will explore large-scale problems, innovative solutions, levers for impact, and practical approaches to change. Topics include wildfire, migration, shifting disease patterns, reforestation, food systems and more. Students will discover why progress requires interdisciplinary thinking that crosses traditional boundaries. Each will apply skills in systems thinking, data analysis, and effective communication to a critical planetary health challenge, completing a multi-part assignment culminating in a policy memo that recommends specific action to decision-makers. Additional assignments include readings, reflections, and quizzes. Open to students from all disciplines and levels.