Global Environment and Sustainability (EVSC90001)

Modernization has led to development pressures that have increasingly disrupted natural systems leading to widespread concerns about the long-term viability of important environmental services, including those critical to food security worldwide. Case studies in topical areas of environment and food production systems are used to explore interrelationships among social, economic, and environmental factors basic to sustainable development.

The case studies vary between years but have included:

• Traditional knowledge
• Genetically modified foods and food sovereignty
• Land grabs
• Global warming and climate change
• Water quality and quantity
• Global responsibility

The student will participate in global classroom discussions and debates with students from Costa Rica, Honduras, China and the USA. This interaction is facilitated by local classroom discussions, postings to discussion forums and live interactive videoconferences (interactive seminars). The subject challenges the student to develop a clear understanding of sustainability from both a regional and a global context.