WHat is Critical Ecology?

Human social dynamics are entangled with global enviromental change. Cultural, spiritual, and economic realities subtly and systematically drive the causes and impacts of anthropogenic climate change and its downstream effects. Within our uneven social systems are individuals-- past, present, and future-- each person making decisions about how to relate to others and to nature. What are these social drivers of environmental change through time and space, and how do they influence elemental cycles, ecosystem function, and the elusive goal of human equality?

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​Critical ecology is an area of environmental research illuminating the direct lines between environmental processes and human equality and liberation. Critical ecology seeks to empirically and mechanistically define the social precursors and consequences of climate change and anthropogenic environmental harms. This is an application of basic science to the real-life practices and structures that promote and maintain social and economic disparities. In addition, critical ecology promotes the development of research methods that are truly equitable and based in respect for indigenous sovereignty and antiracist praxis. By its nature, critical ecology requires investigators to reckon with their own social positions within their research questions and among thier colleagues, students, and the public.
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Critical Ecology Lab Model

To create a home for this interdisciplinary  research, the Critical Ecology Lab works with academic collaborators at the undergraduate, graduate, and career stages as well as community-based organizations:
  • Undergraduate research collaborations: More Soon
  • Masters and PhD students: More Soon
  • Other Potential Collaborators: If you are interested in discussing new or ongoing research related to the critical ecology framework, please email us! 
 © Suzanne Pierre 2020
 The Critical Ecology Lab is a  501(c)3 nonprofit organiaztion fiscally sponsored Inquiring Systems, Inc.