This generation of students will be living in a world where global environmental changes, both natural and anthropogenic, will challenge the ability of the Earth to sustain human populations. According to the more than 1,300 scientists that contributed to the 2005 Millennium Ecosystem Assessment;

“…human activity is putting such a strain on the natural functions of the Earth that the ability of the planet’s ecosystems to sustain future generations can no longer be taken for granted.”

 

 

 

It is therefore incumbent upon us to provide all of our students, especially those who are least likely to take a course in environment and sustainability without such a requirement, with an introduction to sustainability issues that will undoubtedly shape their futures as part of their general education.

The following courses address the relationship between humans and the environment in a substantial way (listed By department)

UCSB also participates in the STARS Program to help us track the infusion of sustainability into curriculum. The courses above include both those that are “Sustainability-Focused” and “Sustainability-Related” (terms created by STARS). The definition UCSB uses for Sustainability Courses are those “that address the relationship between humans and the environment in a substantial way”.