Students will examine and compare several U.S. environmental laws which are designed to redress environmental damage and to protect the environment. In doing so, they will analyze the relative costs and benefits of various forms of environmental regulation within the context of the American political, administrative, and legal systems. The course focuses on U.S. environmental law, but will also consider the increasingly important field of international environmental law and agreements. Student gains practical experience by working in a government agency, private industry, or non-governmental organization. Directed reading and research on a specific topic in Environmental Studies agreed to by student and faculty member.
Students engage in research projects, either as individuals or part of a team.
Seminar meetings are devoted to analysis of a small set of readings, common discussion of research issues, and preparation for life beyond the baccalaureate. X050 and C050. For GUS X050 only, Composition C050. This course emphasizes the human dimensions of the relationship between societies and their natural environments. Students will be introduced to those ecological principles that are necessary to understand cultural, social, political, and economic questions at a variety of geographic scales.