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 equally focused on solutions, and on offering the degree programs, skills and knowledge needed to protect, restore, reform and transform the social and ecological systems that we all depend on.
What will an ERS degree mean for you? It means the opportunity to get your boots dirty and participate in hands-on learning in classes, co-op jobs, field work opportunities, and research projects.
It means integrating ecology and social sciences, and connecting practical skills in ecosystem monitoring and restoration, with environmental policy analysis, impact assessment and collaborative decision making.
And it means working with faculty that are nationally and internationally recognized for their expertise in biodiversity conservation and restoration, food systems sustainability, water governance, climate change and energy transitions, and in understanding the politics of social change.
In SERS, we believe it’s possible to navigate to a more sustainable future. Our mission is to help chart that course, and our programs will prepare you for environmental careers with purpose and impact.
Reach out to find out more about our academic programs, the exciting careers available to our graduates (check out our careers page!), and our award-winning research. We hope you’ll join us!
News
Simon Courtenay retires leaving a legacy of leadership, learning, and environmental stewardship
Dr. Simon Courtenay is retiring after a distinguished career advancing aquatic research, education, and environmental governance. His leadership, mentorship, and service have left a lasting impact on SERS, the Faculty of Environment, and beyond.
Congratulations Simon!
SERS PhD student among finalists in SSHRC 2025 Storytellers Challenge
Natasha Serrao, a SERS PhD candidate, was selected as a finalist in the 2025 SSHRC’s Storytellers Challenge. The SSHRC challenges postsecondary students nationwide to demonstrate, in up to three minutes or 300 words, how their research is positively impacting our lives, our world, and our future. Congratulations Natasha!
SERS PhD alumna honoured with CWP Alumni Achievement Award
SERS alumna Dr. Fabiola Alvarado-Revilla was awarded the 2024-25 Collaborative Water Program (CWP) Alumni Achievement Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements in her professional career and in community service.
Blog
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.
Fossil fuels and our food systems
Fossil fuels are widely used all across the economy, including in food systems. Dr. Jennifer Clapp has been working with colleagues on a new project that seeks to uncover where we rely on fossil fuels in our food system to assess where and how we can shift away from them. In one podcast episode, she walks through fossil energy use associated with a typical bag of corn chips.
Kelsey Leonard reflects on the support and solidarity of women
For International Women’s Day, Dr. Kelsey Leonard reflects on the solidarity and support she receives from the women in her Shinnecock community, why it’s important to uplift women in academia and what advancements she would like to see in the future.