Who determines access to common timber, grasslands and waters? Do rivers and species have "rights" that must be acknowledged? When does the release of wastes and leftovers, a.k.a. "pollution," cross the line from private to public decision? Is democracy compatible with good environmental governance? "Environmental governance" concerns the exercise of collective human authority over natural resources and systems. In this sophomore-level course, students review basic theories of governance then interweave theory, case studies, and relevant law to complete an introduction to environmental governance. This course is offered in three versions, which use different topic areas to pursue a single set of learning outcomes. It cannot be re-taken for credit. In the "Woodland, Wetland, and Wild" version, the case studies and laws concern protection of endangered species and their habitats, and wilderness. In "Cleaning Up The Commons," they concern air and water pollution, including pollutants that
- Teacher: Jessica Trotman