Environmental challenges can seem overwhelming. We’re constantly bombarded with news and information about air and water pollution, climate change, habitat and species loss, food shortages and other problems that threaten humanity. In the School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability (SERS), we understand the seriousness of these challenges – but we are focused on solutions that will allow us to navigate towards a sustainable future.
We invite you to explore our site to find out more about who we are, what we do and how to join us.
News
Samantha Terry uses ERS 403 project to support cultural and ecological healing
ERS undergrad student Samantha Terry focused her ERS 403 research project on supporting Indigenous families in reclaiming their relationships with Anishinaabeg parenting practices and reconnecting with peatlands.
Jennifer Clapp awarded the Canada Council for the Arts Molson Prize
Dr. Jennifer Clapp was recognized by the Canada Council for the Arts for her ongoing contributions to Canada’s cultural and intellectual heritage. Congratulations!
Eloise Fan earns top academic honour merging theatre and environment
ERS and Theatre student, Eloise Fan, reflects on how studying her twin passions led not only to a BES, but also to academic distinction.
Blog
ERS student's journey of reconnection and advocacy
Samantha Terry (BES '25), an Ojibwe student from Temagami First Nation, shares her inspiring journey of reconnecting with her Indigenous identity while thriving in co-op roles and building community at the University of Waterloo.
Thinking critically about urban sustainability in Singapore: A field course
Dr. Leah Jones-Crank reflects on the spring 2025 field trip course which explored the complexity of urban sustainability through a case study of Singapore. As the 10-day field course progressed, the 20 students and two instructors engaged their critical thinking skills to reflect on the environmental, social, and economic connections within Singapore.
We need to halt and reverse biodiversity decline globally and in Canada
In an article published in The Conservation, Trevor Swerdfager and Derek Armitage argue that Canada urgently needs ambitious new biodiversity law if we are to make meaningful progress in addressing the biodiversity crisis facing Canada today.
Events
Presentation by Dr. Mahsa Bagheri on shaping future housing policies
Dr. Mahsa Bagheri will be visiting the University of Waterloo on June 27th and will speak to the topic:
Shaping future housing policies: Behavioural trends and sustainability insights for a “sufficient” built environment
This will be an informal gathering, and Dr. Bagheri will also provide information about her background and research more broadly, as well as her home institute in Germany. Dr. Bagheri is also keen to explore potential collaborations, be that joint publications, project proposals, joint supervisions or other relationships.