College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The Dean's Musings

Environmental Studies and the Future

This article was originally published in the October 2004 issue of CLASnotes

One of the most pressing challenges facing society, and researchers, educators and policy makers in particular, is the development of a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the environment. The University of Florida and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences have important roles to play in this field. With the large number of fragile ecosystems in the state from delicate coastal estuaries, such as Seahorse Key near Cedar Key, to the Everglades restoration, and the socio-economic impact of land and water use in one of the most rapidly developing regions in the nation, advanced research and broad educational programs are essential if we are to assure a high quality of life for future generations.

In the sciences, CLAS faculty members are using advanced scientific technologies (GPS/RS, mass spectrometry, isotope analysis) to carry out research projects on ecosystems, global climate change, and bio-complexity. The data obtained through these efforts will help guide policy makers in setting standards for the future. Interdisciplinary institutes such as the Land Use and Environmental Change Institute (LUECI) and the new UF Water Institute provide focal points for these efforts. Scientists also are participating in the National Science Foundation’s nationwide infrastructure program, the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) that will be part of continent-wide networked observatories to collect data on ecological and evolutionary processes.

A research project that highlights the strength of our environmental sciences is the $2.4 million grant received from the Moore Foundation to fund a science-based conservation project in the Amazon wetlands. UF ecologists and geographers are collaborating with Brazilian and Peruvian researchers to stimulate agreements and legislation that will promote the conservation of aquatic biodiversity in the region. (See page 12 for more details)

There is a strong component of social and behavioral sciences faculty to study the effect of land-use from socio-economic factors arising from human and environment interactions, studies of environmental politics and global economy. The humanities also will play an important role with studies focused on ethics and environmental issues, and research into global climate changes that impact culture.

These efforts are truly interdisciplinary, reaching across all units and colleges and across our state. Florida can in many ways provide national leadership by carrying out the necessary rigorous research and training the next generation of researchers and educators who will implement the changes we will inevitably need.